Always Partying: Feast Your Eyes on July 4th Fireworks

The Gluttoness — July 01, 2009

This year’s Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular is moving away from the East River, opting instead to light up the sky over the Hudson. You can bet that everyone will be crowding to the West Side Highway just like they do every year on the FDR. Thankfully, there are a couple prime elevated spots to leisurely enjoy the show without having to strain your neck or throw elbows at your fellow revelers.

With breathtaking views of the river, the rooftop of the Hudson Terrace, just off the West Side Highway, will be a premiere destination for a panoramic view of the Fourth of July fireworks. For $125 you get access to all-you-can-eat barbeque and an open bar from 7 pm to 10 pm. Two hundred bucks will secure you a personal cabana for fifteen of your closest friends. If you find yourself in Hoboken, New Jersey, your best bet is The Chandelier Room at the W Hotel. The unobstructed views, festive menu and summer cocktails will make the perfect setting for an unparalleled Fourth of July.

If you’re dead-set on Saturday night dinner plans but don’t want to miss the spectacle, there are a handful of restaurants near the Hudson with outdoor seating. One of the eateries closest to the water is F. Illi Ponte Ristorante on West Street in TriBeCa. Andrew Carmellini’s new Italian hotspot, Locanda Verde is only a block from the highway (and serves an awesome seafood salad). Other options include Barbuto in the West Village, Los Dados in the Meatpacking District and West Branch on the Upper West Side.