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Best Places to Watch the July 4 Fireworks in New York City

Where to see the Macy's July 4 fireworks in New York

By , About.com Guide

See the July 4 fireworks in New York City live and in their full pyrotechnic glory. Trust me, the TV footage does not capture the full beauty of the display or the energy of New York City on July 4th.

We've got the ultimate list of best places to watch the Macy's July 4 fireworks in New York -- from street party to pier party to boat party and more.

1. West Side Highway and Surrounding Area

Join the street party on the West Side Highway and 12th Avenue between 20th and 59th Streets. Find out more about street closures and how to get to the center of the July 4th action.

2. Circle Line Pier Party

fireworks in new york

We attended the rooftop Circle Line Private Pier Party last year and had phenomenal views of the Macy's fireworks, cold beers and hot dogs, and some distance from the sweaty crowds. For July 4th 2011, Pier Party tickets are $85 per person.

3. U.S.S. Intrepid

The U.S.S. Intrepid also offers amazing views of the Macy's fireworks from its prime location on the Hudson River. You can party on the Intrepid this July 4th for $100 per person (for $130, you can also enjoy a private July 4th tour of the Intrepid museum).

4. Hudson Terrace

Hudson Terrace hosts an annual July 4th party on its beautiful rooftop deck with prime views of the fireworks over New York City. The 2011 party will feature an Independence Day BBQ feast and a four-hour open bar for $100 per person.

5. World Yacht Hudson River Party Cruise

You can't beat the view of the fireworks from the Hudson River. Board the World Yacht party cruise and watch the fireworks from the water with the New York City skyline as a backdrop. Tickets are $99 and include one complimentary cocktail per person.

6. Hoboken, New Jersey

Macy's July 4th Fireworks

When the fireworks moved across town to the Hudson River, Queens and Brooklyn lost out and New Jersey got lucky. You can enjoy spectacular views of the Macy's July 4th fireworks in New York City from across the river in Hoboken.

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