The best venues to celebrate July 4th in NYC

This 22nd-floor outdoor balcony on top of The William Vale hotel has a skyline view of all of Manhattan, perfect for viewing the Macy’s Fireworks Show across the East River. Westlight is teaming up with Gospël Tribe and el studio to throw an Independence Day celebration, with DJs and dancing across the enclosed rooftop space and the open-air terrace.

Timed entry tickets are required, and select seating is available as table package tickets for up to 4 people. The ticket price includes Gospël bottle service and snacks from the Westlight food menu, like spicy honey garlic chicken and salmon tostadas. Tickets are required, and doors open from 5 pm.

For a more laid-back, kid-friendly celebration, head to this 5,0000 sq. ft. venue on the East River. With ample indoor and outdoor seating, you can celebrate no matter the weather, and enjoy New American comfort fare like wood oven-grilled pizzas and fresh, seasonal salads.

There’s an additional July 4th menu for the day, including Maine lobster mac & cheese, baby back ribs, and New York Cheesecake. Stay into the later hours to watch the fireworks light up above the city skyline, complete with a bottle of red or white.

If you’re craving the smell of chlorine on July 4th, you don’t have to leave Manhattan. Rent a beach chair or a 5-person shaded cabana at the Virgin Hotels rooftop pool for up to 4 hours of swim time. Reservations come with towel service and complimentary WiFi, and cabanas come with a food and beverage credit to spend at The Pool Club bar. It’s 21+ only, so you won’t get kids peeing in the pool or screaming through your headphones.

Stay until 7:30 for Virgin Hotels’ July 4th party on the 38th floor, which includes DJ spins, games, and a firework viewing. Tickets are $40 and include one complimentary beverage.

Rumor has it that the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks are returning to the Hudson River for the first time in over a decade. Not only does Gansevoort rooftop boast one of the best panoramic views in the city, but its location on the west side in Chelsea means you’ll get prime viewing for the 25-minute show.

You’ll also have elevated cocktails, a menu of refined American BBQ classics, and music all night long. Tickets are 21+, but younger guests staying at the hotel are welcome with a guardian.

In this day and age, it can be hard to feel especially…festive on the Fourth of July. For a laid-back outdoor space to just catch up with friends on your day off, head to Strong Rope Brewery in Brooklyn. Enjoy a well-crafted beer with a sunset view of Lady Liberty on their massive patio. Bring a big group (kids and pets are welcome) and pack a picnic – there’s no food menu – or snag a meal from a food truck or restaurant nearby.

This family-run business takes pride in its Brooklyn-brewed ales, lagers, and malts with locally-inspired styles. Slushie cocktails, wine, and cider are also available, all sourced in New York state. Strong Rope has a second location in Gowanus, and can host private events for up to 250 people.