Undoubtedly when people think 4th of July fireworks, they usually consider the Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks display along the East River at the top of the heap! And while this event can be seen for miles, we’ve compiled a list of the best places in Brooklyn or Queens where you can see the festivities up close!

Queens and Long Island City

If you’re not already a resident of Heatherwood’s 27 on 27th or Tower 28, where a simple elevator ride up to the roof would provide you with the best possible view of the show, you can always check out these places below.

Astoria Park, a nearly 60 acre park that sits alongside the East River is one of the most perfect spots to see the fireworks. But check with local authorities as some areas of the park may not be accessible during the event.

Gantry Plaza State Park and Hunter’s Point South Park in Long Island City both provide waterfront real estate with unobstructed views of the East River. Hunter’s Point is directly beside the fireworks barges guaranteeing you the best seats in the house (that’s assuming you get there early enough to secure a spot). Reminder: bring earplugs and bug spray!

LIC Flea and Food Long Island City’s large outdoor market might be open for business on the 4th so you may be able to get some shopping-in before nightfall and the fireworks display. Buy a chair at the market and see the show in style.

Williamsburg Brooklyn and Beyond

According to the team at Macy’s, one of the best places to view the fireworks along the East River would be the newly rebuilt Brooklyn Bridge Park ! From the park you can catch a birds-eye view of the fireworks and be back in your apartment on Union Ave. before the last spark falls.

Another great spot to view the festivities is the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. This tree-lined walkway offers views of the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge & the historic Manhattan skyline. But get here early to get a good spot along the rail for the best possible viewing of the show.

Two other notable spots in Brooklyn are the Brooklyn Grange in the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Or (with some research and reservations) you can get onto a rooftop bar or nightclub in Williamsburg or Greenpoint and take-in the rockets’ red glare from there.

From the River

Lastly, if you want an intimate look at the celebration, you can reserve a spot on the Pink Lady Freedom Cruise. This private party boat will take you and your group right alongside the fireworks show! The Freedom Cruise includes; a live DJ, a Buffet Dinner, cocktails and the best possible view of the show. Again, hurry before this boat sells out!