Ah, there’s nothing like summer in the City. What better time to experience the Big Apple than the Fourth of July? With fireworks booming over the city and illuminating the skyline, you’ll really feel like you’re in the greatest city on earth.
But holiday travel, especially from Manhattan to JFK or Laguardia and vice versa, can be the rain on your parade if you don’t plan carefully on a popular holiday like the 4th of July. Take these travel tips to heart to make the most of your Fourth of July adventure.
Decide Where to Watch the Fireworks in Advance
With so many people vying for a good spot to watch the famed Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks, you don’t want to get caught in the crowds! Decide in advance where you’ll watch the fireworks and plan to get there well before dusk.
This year’s display will once again be launched on the East River, with several official viewing areas located along FDR Drive . These can be accessed from Houston Street, 23rd Street, 34th Street, and 42nd Street in Midtown or Broad Street, Old Slip, and Pearl & Frankfort in Lower Manhattan. These entry points open at 7 PM, but you’ll probably need to arrive several hours in advance to secure a spot.
Some other popular viewing areas that may be a bit less chaotic include Brooklyn Bridge Park in DUMBO, the Brooklyn Promenade, Frank Sinatra Park in Hoboken, and Roosevelt Island’s Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park.
Pack Light to Travel Easily
Now that you know you should plan to arrive early to catch the fireworks, you’re probably wondering what you should bring to keep yourself entertained and comfortable all day. But keep in mind that this is one of those situations where less is more. So leave the portable grill at home!
In fact, in official viewing areas, you won’t be allowed to bring in large backpacks, lawn chairs, or other bulky items — and police say they will be checking bags. Plus, if you’re planning to do some sightseeing during the day, you won’t want to be lugging around everything but the kitchen sink.
Pack as light as possible, but don’t forget the essentials. Water, sunscreen, snacks and a blanket should definitely make it onto your list.
From Manhattan to JFK in a Cinch
When it’s time to leave the city, you won’t want your glorious holiday marred by a disastrous trip from Manhattan to JFK, Laguardia or Newark. With everyone flocking to get out of the city, travel to the airport can be chaotic.
Make your travel a whole lot easier by booking a car service or an airport shuttle in advance, with easy pick up anywhere in Manhattan and drop off right at your terminal. It’s a lot more affordable than you’d think — especially if you’re willing to hop on a shuttle with some fellow travelers.
But the best part is that it’s truly the most convenient way to travel, especially from Manhattan to JFK. Book your car before you go and you’ll have one less thing to think about. Instead of worrying about flagging down a cab or cramming into a hot subway car with sweaty passengers, spend every minute of your Fourth of July holiday enjoying the spirit of NYC.