June 16, 2017

What to Do on the Fourth of July in NYC

Fourth of July in New York means the famous Macy’s fireworks show. But the iconic display over the East River begins in the evening, and only lasts about 30 minutes. With an entire day to explore the city before the fireworks begin, here’s how The Palace recommends spending the perfect summer day in Manhattan on July 4.

Explore NYC by Bike

CitiBike, New York’s bike share program, is a quick and breezy way to see Manhattan. Don’t want to brave the city streets? Hit the Hudson River Greenway, the country’s most popular bikeway, where you can see cultural attractions like the Whitney Museum of American Art (where 2017 Whitney Biennial is on partial view until July 18) or stop off for cocktails at Grand Banks, a Tribeca oyster bar located directly on the Hudson River in Tribeca.

Order the Hot Dog at DBGB

Chef Daniel Boulud has elevated the hot dog from a classic NYC street food to a house-made sausage snack. Skip the hot dog stand and head to DBGB Kitchen and bar to try the $10 hot dog with sautéed onions, mustard, ketchup, “299” relish, frisée and radish.

Beat the Heat on a Rooftop in Manhattan

For a breeze and a refreshing cocktail, La Birreria, Eataly’s rooftop beer garden, has been transformed into Sabbia for the summer. The pop-up beach lounge features Island Creek Oysters and local swordfish, with views of the Empire State Building. Further downtown, Catch Roof in the Meatpacking District serves up American fare with plenty of sunshine. Or, if the sun is too hot, head indoors to Trouble’s Trust at The Palace where a selection of hand-crafted cocktails awaits.

Soak Up the Sun in a NYC Park

Plenty of New York’s green spaces also offer great food. Since 2004, Madison Square Park has been home to the original Shake Shack. Down in Union Square, the Pavilion offers a decidedly tropical vibe with potted palms. Uptown, catch some rays at Boat Basin Café in Riverside Park, where knockout barbecue is served on paper plates and cocktails in plastic cups.

See the Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks

Head down to South Street Seaport to celebrate down by the water. The fireworks are set off from barges near Pier 17 in Manhattan, so the seaport area is a perfect place to catch the show, a bite to eat, and cocktails after. For a more direct view, venture across the river to Brooklyn Bridge Park.

To get the best deal on your Fourth of July getaway in New York, be sure to book directly at The Palace. Our Summer Like a Local promotion includes:

  • 10% Off the Best Available Rate
  • 25% Off Suites
  • 50% Off the Best Available Rate on Sundays
  • Official Lotte New York Place Summer Itinerary
  • Palace tote bag with sunglasses
  • Free Wi-Fi

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