4th of July – Exciting Places to Celebrate in NYC

The 4th of July is just around the corner and you may be looking for a special place to gather, enjoy a drink and some good food while viewing the elaborate Macy’s fireworks display over the East River. 

Here are six spots that are making Independence Day an exciting event! 

Roof at Park South, located approximately three blocks from the East River, will host a Macy’s 4th of July fireworks viewing party with a BBQ cookout and an open bar from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Guests will have a front row seat to view the fireworks. The party will begin with an hour of passed canapés, followed by food stations showcasing holiday favorites prepared by James Beard-nominated chef Bryce Shuman. The open bar will feature cocktail selections curated by Beverage Director Ivan Papic. The Roof at Park South boasts high-top tables as well as beautifully decorated lounge areas that can be reserved for parties of up to ten, including the Umbrella Lounge with low-top tables under bright orange umbrellas; the Fireside Lounge; the Flower Area – a private focal point of the space; and the Garden, featuring potted plants and a colorful live wall. Tickets are priced at $250 per person and available via Tock.

Circle Line is the premier provider of sightseeing boat tours in New York City, offering a one-of-a-kind way to experience the city’s world-renowned landmarks from the water. For the 4th of July Fireworks Cruise you will marvel at the breathtaking fireworks display along the city skyline while enjoying DJ music, dancing and indulging in their open bar and buffet with summer food favorites. For more information go to the Circle Line website.

4th of July Pool Party: In spectacular fashion, Virgin Hotels NYC celebrates America’s Birthday. Lounge at The Pool Club starting at 4 p.m. with DJ sets from local heroes L3ni, Tyler From Where and Orson, before ascending into the clouds to the 38th floor for the big show with a curated playlist by Virgin Hotels NYC Director of Entertainment, Luka Tacon. From 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., attendees can also enjoy a fireworks viewing from the pool deck. This happening at The Pool Club at Virgin Hotels NYC will be from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. 

Liberty and Luxury:  The Liberty and Luxury package at Virgin Hotels NYC includes a luxurious Sky Chamber King Empire View with stunning views of Manhattan and the Empire State Building, two complementary White Negronis, a perfect blend of patriotism, sophistication. Complimentary Charcuterie at The Pool Club or Everdene terrace. Access to the 38th floor, to enjoy panoramic views on the evening of July 4th. Travelers can book now for stay dates from June 29 – July 9, 2023. Reservations can be booked here.

Somewhere Nowhere located at 112 W. 25th Street in Chelsea is hosting an epic Indepen-Dance Day 4th of July Sunset Party. Somewhere Nowhere’s outdoor lounge and open-air rooftop pool is a prime vantage point for New York City’s 47th Annual Macy’s Fireworks Spectacular. This expansive bi-level lounge spans the 38th and 39th floors and boasts 360-views of Manhattan’s skyline as far as the eye can see. It wouldn’t be July 4th without a classic BBQ menu and some of the best cocktails in the city. DJs Rick Wonder and Michael Simpson will provide the live soundtrack to America’s birthday. Attendees will have exclusive admission to this lit July 4th celebration complete with live music, a delicious BBQ and some of the best cocktails in the city. Ticket and types vary and allow entry for the respective floor purchased. Doors open at 3 p.m. and tickets are available via Somewhere Nowhere 7/4 Party Tickets.

ART SoHo located at 231 Hudson Street is the cocktail lounge located on the rooftop of Arlo Soho with sweeping views of New York and the Hudson River. The venue invites guests to enjoy the pulse of the city with views of the fireworks and a DJ providing the perfect backdrop for celebrations. Frozen cocktails and a specialty menu spearheaded by Chef Carsten Johannsen of Renwick Hospitality will include all American classics with burgers, fried chicken bites, and fries. Start the evening with sunset drinks in the revamped rooftop space with resident DJ spinning till late with views of the fireworks and a mix of top 40 genres as the perfect way to celebrate red, white and views.  It all starts at 5 p.m. on the 4th and table reservations can be made in advance here.

Empire State Building is a prime location to watch the annual fireworks launched over the East River. This year, the city’s iconic landmark is hosting its recurring 4th of July Fireworks Party, catered by in-house restaurant STATE Grill and Bar. The exclusive evening includes DJs, Americana-themed hors d’oeuvres by Executive Chef Morgan Jarrett, and a two-hour open bar, from 7:30 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. Guests will have a one-of-a-kind view of the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular from the 86th floor open air deck as well as a party with refreshments on the 80th floor. Tickets ($525) are now available on the website.

Featured photo: iStock by Getty Images

About Marina P. Kennedy (147 Articles)
Marina Kennedy began her writing career when her four children were grown and she returned to college to study in the humanities. She is delighted to be a contributor for Woman Around Town. The majority of her articles focus on the culinary scene, theatre, and travel. Marina and her husband Chuck enjoy the rich cultural experiences of the New York metro area and beyond. She hopes that readers like reading her articles as much as she enjoys writing them.