The 4th of July is here, which means everyone who didn't have the foresight or funds to book a trip is now scrambling to make plans. And if you haven't been invited to a barbecue or backyard, that probably means finding a bar or rooftop where you can catch the fireworks show, which has moved from the East River to the Hudson . (The barges will line up between 14th and 34th streets, and the show starts at 8 p.m. There's also the Liberty State Park show at 9:30 p.m.)
The problem with this route, however, is that like New Year's Eve, Halloween and too many others, the Fourth is a holiday where many establishments sell tickets claiming to have the best party and a clear vision, almost always false, which is why we created this guide. So before you consider sending that “hey weird” text to your ex with a riverfront apartment, scroll through for some more viable options, whether you're looking for a bar that's worth the price of the ticket or a parking, although no less fun, hanging.
bars
Great Banks
Grand Banks puts you right under the action. The floating boat is docked at Pier 25, a few blocks south of the main show and a few blocks north of the fireworks at Liberty State Park. Tickets for the night are steep, but for the best view, you should rent a room at 15 Hudson Yards. The “Waterfront” and “Dockside” options are already sold out at $450 a ticket, but seats are still available for $300. Comes with a glass of champagne, a lobster or scallop roll, fries and key lime pie.
Drift Inn
If Grand Banks runs out of seats, opt for its sister bar Drift Inn at Pier 45. They have a similar ticketed menu available, all $50 cheaper than Grand Banks on each level. The views are still magnificent, but beware of the fireworks viewer's greatest fear: the trees in the park. You're paying for really good food and drinks, but you might have to do some maneuvering to get an unobstructed view.
Gansevoort Terrace
I'm not about to endorse Gansevoort Rooftop as a cool bar. But I will say that when there are fireworks to watch and they host their “Rooftop Soirée”, it's no different when you befriend the nerdy kid with a pool in May so you can use it in the summer. The Meatpacking Hotel has a more clubby vibe, but 1) it's running out of cable, and 2) maybe that's what you're looking for.
Le Bain
Le Bain has always been a little underwhelming, and I mean that in the best way. (Just ask any nightlife regular what's the weirdest thing they've ever seen at Le Bain.) Yet somehow the idea of everyone at Le Bain looking skyward to watch the fireworks she seems almost curious. The bar is celebrating its 444th July party, with plenty of music and DJ performances, running from 4pm to 4am, so we hope your work has given you Friday free
City vineyard
What we said about Gansevoort Rooftop also goes for City Vineyard, but we have to give credit to the latter for throwing a party that puts all the venue's assets to work. Each floor will have music and a DJ, and tickets are relatively affordable at $100. (Guests also get a free drink and food.) The downside is that while the event will be fun, the rooftop has limited space, even more so when everyone gathers for the show. Note: Grand Banks may be best for impressing a date, but this is best for partying with friends.
Green Spaces
Hudson River Park
Of course, but we have some professional advice. First, be aware that many of the entrances will be closed to control traffic flow. (There will be access points starting at 6 p.m. on Washington Street at Christopher, West 11th and West 12th, and then at 11th Avenue and 29th Street and 40th Street.) Then come prepared with all the supplies you need because the park is narrow; once inside, it will be almost impossible to get out and back in. We recommend stopping at Sea Grape Wine first.
Rockefeller Park
Further south, Rockefeller Park has a larger lawn to spread out on if you're going with a group. The added bonus is that depending on your position, you'll have a view of both the Macy's fireworks to the north and the Liberty State Park fireworks to the south. Battery Park City is a little quieter and businesses close early, so we recommend picking up bevs at Pure Liquid in the Oculus.
The battery
At the southernmost tip of Manhattan, the Battery offers a different view. Instead of craning your neck to see the Macy's fireworks, focus on the Liberty State fireworks — from this vantage point, they'll explode right over the Statue of Liberty. The beer garden in the south corner of the park is below the tree line, but can be a great place to have a few pints; or stop at Duane Reade in Whitehall for beer and hard seltzers. Much of the lawn is under tree cover, so consider moving to the boardwalk (but bring a folding or beach chair for the concrete instead of a blanket).
