July 4th Macy's Fireworks 2009

This year's fireworks are really special: Macy's is going all out for a commemoration of Henry Hudson's 400th anniversary of his trip to our lovely city. And more importantly, for the first time ever, we have a perfect view of them from our apartment. We have space for one or two other families, so if you don't have a good viewing spot and are a KidCity enthusiast, please email us. Macy's suggests these places for free public viewing. To find out more, you can call Macy’s Fireworks Hotline at (212) 494-4495 Other excellent viewing options:

1. Get to Pier 54 or 84 VERY VERY early. (FREE)
2. New York Waterways will be doing a relatively affordable family-friendly fireworks cruise leaving from four locations. ($75/adult; $65 child--avoid the outrageous service fee by buying them at the box office not on the web).
3. New York Water Taxi is doing a tour of the harbor plus fireworks viewing (family friendly; $100 per person with NO discount for kids).
4. Spirit Cruises includes a dinner as well as the dancing, DJ etc.. and they specifically advertise it as family friendly. ($149/pp).
5. The New Yorker Hotel offers a package for $399 that includes overnight room accommodations and entry into their special July 4th suite on the 38th floor with a balcony overlooking all the action.
6. The Mandarin Oriental Hotel offers rooms overlooking the Hudson. Packages starting at $695 include breakfast daily and a late 6 pm check out.