Macy's 4th of July fireworks are back on the East River this year but viewing the spectacular light show is going to require some planning.
The fireworks will be launched from four barges that are located south of the Brooklyn Bridge. The free viewing points are only located in Manhattan this year. Click here for a map and Manhattan access points.
The ADA accessible viewing location will also be located on the Manhattan side at Murry Bergtraum Field. Guests should enter at Pike Street and Cherry Street for this location.
In Brooklyn, all waterfront viewing points are for people who have tickets, and the online request period has closed.
All of Brooklyn Bridge Park will be a fully-ticketed area. For access information and a map, click here.
The Brooklyn Promenade is closed for the general public as it is only for city employees, according to the Brooklyn Daily Eagle.
Forget about going to Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO to view the fireworks, as you need to show an ID or a pass from work that says you live/work there.
Street and other closures on July 4, according to state Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon:
- All Day: Some sections of Brooklyn Bridge Park will be closed, including the Greenway, dog runs and restrooms
- 2:00pm: Significant street closures in DUMBO and Brooklyn Heights, and all park concessions will close
- 3:00pm: NYC Ferry service will stop running to Pier 6 and Pier 1
- 3:30pm: All of Brooklyn Bridge Park will close
- 6:30pm: Brooklyn Bridge Park will reopen ONLY for those with a fireworks viewing ticket
- 8:00pm-11:00pm: Clark Street 2/3 station will be bypassed in both directions
- 9:25pm: Fireworks commence
So where are the best places from Brooklyn to see the Macy's fireworks? A friend's rooftop in Vinegar Hill, Cobble Hill, Columbia Street Waterfront District, Downtown Brooklyn and portions of Carroll Gardens and Red Hook.
Or you can head to Coney Island!
This 20-minute fireworks display, sponsored by the Alliance for Coney Island, features vibrant bursts over the Atlantic Ocean, visible from the boardwalk between West 10th and West 15th Streets. Visitors are advised to arrive by 7:00pm to secure a spot on the beach or boardwalk, as crowds gather early. Bring a blanket or beach chair for comfort, and pack snacks to enjoy while waiting.
