Fourth of July New York: What to Do | New York City

Are you ready for Fourth of July New York? Whether you prefer hanging out with the crowds or would enjoy something more laid back, here’s what to do!

Get a Healthy Start

If you’re like most people, your Fourth of July involves lots of eating and drinking. Why not get your day of to a healthy start? You’ll feel much better about all those hot dogs you’ll eat later!

Join the Firecracker 5K for a rare chance to run on Governor’s Island! During the race, you’ll enjoy great views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Statue of Liberty. Stick around afterward for a great post-race party and all the Island has to offer.

Not a runner? Join Big Onion Walking Tours for Revolutionary New York. During the walk, you’ll learn about the Patriot/Loyalist conflict within New York as the nation was only beginning to develop. Visit the site of the Declaration of Independence first New York reading; see the graves of Revolutionary War General Richard Montgomery and first Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton; and explore the site of President George Washington’s Inaugural Address, and more!

Picnic in the Park

Fourth of July New York is the perfect day to enjoy a relaxing picnic in Central Park.

Of course, you could join the crowds on the Sheep Meadow or Great Lawn, but head north and it gets quieter. Snag a peaceful spot just north of the Reservoir, on the Great Hill, or near The Lake.

Pick up basic provisions at your corner store or order sandwiches and drinks from your favorite cafe before heading into the park.

Image Source: Flickr/Steve Depolo

Catch a Baseball Game

Is there anything more American than baseball? The Fourth of July is the perfect day to catch a game and enjoy classic ballpark food.

Head to the Bronx to see the Yankees play Tampa Bay at 1:05 p.m., or spend the day at Coney Island, then watch the Cyclones play the Williamsport Crosscutters at 6:00 p.m.

Head to the Beach

There’s no need to trek to the Hamptons for the weekend when you can spend a day at a city beach!

Catch the subway to Coney Island and spend the day enjoying the boardwalk, rides, and expansive beach. For a more laid back vibe, take the A train to Rockaway Beach. Make sure to stop by Tacoway Beach for some of the city’s best tacos while you’re there.

Image Source: Flickr/Bruce Monroe

Have a Laugh

Want to do something different this 4th of July?

Head to the Peoples Improv Theater for their 5th Annual IndiePendence Day. Once there, you’ll enjoy independent improv teams from across New York and beyond for hours of shows, a potluck BBQ, and more.

Where to Watch the Fireworks

We can’t forget the fireworks!

You can always fork out big bucks for a cruise or hotel rooftop package, or you can catch the fireworks for free at these locations: