How to Celebrate July 4 in NYC - The Adventuring Millennial

Ready to start planning your July 4th festivities?

I’ve celebrated July 4 in NYC and let me tell you, it was wild! But with the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest and multiple firework displays, it’s hard to find a more patriotic place to spend the holiday.

Plus, you can visit a few historic sites in NYC that will help you feel even more excited to celebrate America’s birthday.

In this post, we will discuss everything you need to know to plan the perfect July 4 in NYC. Let’s get started!

The Basics

We are talking about America’s Independence Day which celebrates the day the Declaration of Independence was adopted.

In 2019, July 4th falls on a Thursday.

What You Need to Know

Since NYC is America’s largest city, you can probably guess that there are tons of celebrations throughout the 5 boroughs. And you aren’t wrong. Fireworks displays, concerts, and even a hot dog eating contest are used to celebrate July 4 in NYC.

NYC is always busy, but be prepared for extra crowds on July 4. You will probably also notice additional police officers stationed around the city. It is highly likely that the subway and buses will run on a weekend schedule, even though July 4 falls on a Thursday. Basically, this just means it will be a bit more confusing to navigate public transportation. Give yourself some extra time when riding the subway on July 4.

The Main Events

There are no shortages of July 4th events in NYC. But of course, there are some heavy hitters we need to mention first.

Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest

Is there anything more patriotic than watching people stuff dozens of hot dogs down their throats on Coney Island?

Ok, I’ll admit, it’s gross. But it’s also so American it hurts.

If you are not familiar with the hot dog eating contest, it’s pretty much exactly what it sounds like. A dozen or so competitors have 10 minutes to eat as many Nathan’s hot dogs (and buns) as they can. The men’s and women’s events are separate, so you actually get to watch 20 minutes of people stuffing their faces. The famous Pro Eater (yes that’s a thing) Joey Chesnut won the 2018 men’s competition with 74 hot dogs.

The annual contest is free to attend and takes place on the corner of Surf Avenue and Stillwell Avenue in Coney Island. The women’s competition starts at 11 am and the men’s begins at 12:30 pm. But if you want to actually see the competition, you will need to arrive hours earlier. Over 35,000 people descend on Coney Island to watch the action live.

I attended the hot dog contest in 2014 and arrived at Coney Island at 8:15 am. I know it seems early, but I actually secured a front row spot and was even handed a hot dog by one of the contestants right after the competition ended so it was…WORTH IT!

Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Show

Apparently Macy’s is trying to run every holiday in NYC.

This is the 43rd annual Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks. And, unlike the past few years, the 2019 version will launch from the Brooklyn Bridge. This fireworks display is aired on NBC from 8-10 pm. The TV program also includes musical performances so if you attend in person, you can expect the fireworks to actually last from about 9:20-9:45 pm.

I attended this firework show in 2014 and it was great! That year the fireworks were also launched from the Brooklyn Bridge. Of course, it was a bit hectic to secure a spot. You have to go through a security check so plan to travel light. I wouldn’t bring a backpack because they might not be allowed in the viewing area. And speaking of the viewing area, once you get inside the barricades you have to stay there until after the show. So make sure you go to the bathroom before getting your spot.

Check out their website for more info.

I get it, maybe you don’t want to wait for hours to watch people stuff their face with hot dogs. I get it. Here are some other great ways to celebrate July 4 in NYC:

Cheer on the Brooklyn Cyclones

Baseball just feels right for July 4. Unfortunately, the Yankees and Mets are not at playing in NYC on July 4. But, they are not the only teams in the city. The minor league Brooklyn Cyclones are playing the Aberdeen IronBirds at 6:00 pm.

The Brooklyn Cyclones play at MCU Park on Coney Island. So, you could make a full day out of Coney Island and start with the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, ride a few rides, hang out at the beach, then go to the baseball game at 6:00 pm. Or, just come later in the day for the game.

All tickets for the July 4 game cost $15 and include a free hot dog. Plus, there will be a fireworks display. Get tickets and learn more here.

Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Think about the Instagram possibilities. Ok, but in all seriousness visiting the Statue of Liberty on the 4th of July is a pretty great way to celebrate America’s Independence Day. The site is open on July 4 and tickets are already available to purchase.

You have a few options, you can either take the free Staten Island Ferry and just ride past Lady Liberty. Or, buy a Statue of Liberty + Ellis Island ticket from Statue Cruises. During this trip, you will be able to get out on both islands and explore.

Picnic in the Park

For a relaxed July 4 in NYC, pack a picnic and head to one of the city’s many parks. You can even grill out at many of them (be aware if you plan to grill with more than 20 people you need a special event permit). You can check out the complete list of NYC parks with barbecue facilities here.

If you just want to picnic, here are some of my favorite spots to spread out a blanket and relax:

Sheep’s Meadow in Central Park
Bryant Park
Gantry Plaza State Park
Governors Island

Fireworks Cruise

I almost didn’t include fireworks cruises because they are expensive. But, if you feel like splurging, there are some great opportunities to view the Macy’s fireworks from the comfort of a boat party.

American Princess Cruises– $175 for a fireworks cruise + box meal. A cash bar is also available on board.
NYC Water Taxi– $229 for a buffet + boat party + great views of the Macy’s fireworks show.
Circle Line– Starting at $229, you can enjoy a 4th of July-themed buffet, DJ entertainment, skyline views, and the fireworks display.

Perfect Itinerary

Ready to plan your perfect July 4 in NYC? There are so many options and different ways you can celebrate Independence Day in the city! Back in 2014, I spent the first half of the day at the Hot Dog Eating Contest and the second half waiting for the Macy’s Firework display. That was great, but a lot of standing and waiting around. After having that experience, I thought about how I would NOW plan a July 4 itinerary for NYC, which I’ve included below!

Grab a Patriotic Doughnut

Start the day with a star-shaped doughnut from Doughnut Plant. These were available in 2018 and I can only assume they will be back this year!

Statue of Liberty + Ellis Island Tour

Seriously, what is more patriotic than visiting the Statue of Liberty on July 4th? Book tickets soon before they sell out!

Lunch at Shake Shack

You need an incredibly American lunch today!

Coney Island

Let’s wait until after lunch and the crowds from the Hot Dog Eating contest have dispersed. Maybe head down to Coney Island around 3:30 or 4? I suggest buying tickets for the Brooklyn Cyclones game. For me, this is the best of everything: you get to see a baseball game (very American), eat a Nathan’s hot dog (also American), AND watch a fireworks display without waiting hours for the Macy’s show OR paying hundreds of dollars for a boat cruise.

I hope you are ready to plan your ultimate July 4th celebration! What would your itinerary look like?

For more NYC inspiration, check out these posts?

30 Famous NYC Treats Your Need in Your Life

How to Get Discount Broadway Tickets

Best Outdoor Concerts in NYC:Summer 2019