There’s no shortage of things to do in NY on the Fourth by land or by sea from absolutely free to very pricey. Photo: Events Cruises
If you’re not heading to the Hamptons or other vacation hot spots over the Fourth of July, there’s plenty to keep you entertained in the Big Apple--from open bar boat cruises with DJs that will give you a close up view of the fireworks on the East River to the world famous hot dog eating contest in Coney Island. Here’s a quick look at five things to do on the fourth.
● Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks. From 9:25 p.m. to 9:50 p.m., New Yorkers can watch Macy’s annual Independence Day firework show over the East River between East 26th and 40th St. Over 60,000 shells will be launched during this iconic display.
● Coney Island’s 4th of July Fireworks. Coney Island’s annual firework show will begin at 9:30 p.m. on the Coney Island Boardwalk. The fireworks can be viewed atop rides like the Wonder Wheel as well.
● Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest. Starting at 11 a.m. at Nathan’s Flagship on Coney Island, 10 minute hot dog eating competitions will commence, marking an NYC tradition over 100 years old.
● 4th of July Rooftop Experiences. For a steep price, New Yorkers can attend 4th of July parties at prime viewing locations such as the Empire State Building ($525/pp), OneWorld Observatory ($64-275/pp), and The Edge ($250/pp).
● 4th of July Cruise offered by Event Cruises offers both brunch and night time cruises on the East River. Night time cruises run from $299/pp to full dinner cruise at $449/pp and day time brunch cruises start at $149. All leave from Pier 36 at South St. off the FDR Drive.