If you’re heading to New York for July 4th, you can get great views of the fireworks from your hotel if you manage to grab a room in one of these fab properties in time.
The annual Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks spectacular explodes from five barges on the East River and there are plenty of fun events around the area from family-friendly with food trucks to exclusive parties on rooftops and harbor cruises with live DJs and open bars.
But to escape the crowds and not miss any of the action, book one of these hotels for eyes on the techno displays and cocktail in hand.
1. The William Vale (Brooklyn)
The William Vale is a stylish and contemporary hotel nestled in the heart of Brooklyn, offering an unparalleled view of the East River fireworks on the 4th of July. It is my top pick for the best fireworks views.
With its prime location and modern design, this hotel provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking a front-row seat for the vibrant display. In fact, one of the standout features of The William Vale is its magnificent rooftop bar, Westlight, which boasts panoramic views of the city skyline and the East River.
Then there is another rooftop above this rooftop which is great for summer popup events. But will be outstanding for fireworks night.
Unwind on the lounge seating or in bean bags upstairs, sipping handcrafted cocktails, and take in the breathtaking views during the afternoon. Then keep your spot for an unobstructed view of the fireworks at about 9.20pm on the 4th of July.
Check rates for The William Vale >
2. Lillistar at the Moxy, Brooklyn
This rooftop bar on the 11th floor looks straight down the Williamsburg Bridge with views across the East River and lower Manhattan. It sits on top of the new Moxy Brooklyn Hotel.
The bar is a fusion of Aussie/Indonesian influence in the decor and menu, which has a nod to Indo flavors, alongside creative cocktails like spicy margaritas, to count down until the fireworks begin.
There is an indoor and outdoor rooftop space, so if you don’t get here for July 4th, book a spot for New Year’s Eve in NYC when the technomania will strike again, but you want to be sipping warm drinks!
Reserve your July 4th table here >
3. Millennium Hilton New York One UN Plaza (Midtown)
Located on the East River with several rooms boasting stunning river views across to Brooklyn, Millennium Hilton New York One is a great place to stay to have the best of all worlds.
See the fireworks from your room – and even the gym – but some rooms have great views of the Empire State Building to the north. Being in Midtown, you’re also an easy walk to Bryant Park, Times Square, Rockefeller Center and some great places for brunch to start your day.
See rates and availability at Millennium Hilton New York One UN Plaza >
4. The Hoxton, Williamsburg (Brooklyn)
Just across the East River is the Hoxton with its 175 rooms and Manhattan skyline views. Hoxton hotels, founded in London, are a bit different from others in that they pride themselves on turning unused buildings into luxury hotels. Think carparks or disused and unloved buildings, reimagined into a hotel to reflect its neighborhood.
Book a room with a view, or head to Laser Wolf on the rooftop for the fireworks. You’ll taste award-winning Israeli dishes including skewers cooked over charcoal in the open air skewer house, and great cocktails.
5. The Standard, East Village (Manhattan)
Located in the lively neighborhood of East Village, The Standard is a stylish hotel that’s popular among trendsetters. With its prime location and lively atmosphere, this place promises an unforgettable view of the East River fireworks on the 4th of July from the Penthouse. The Penthouse Party is free – but the catch is you have to be a hotel guest to get in.
The Standard provides a variety of chic and cozy lodgings, in addition to its alluring bar, NO BAR, all in the edgy East Village neighborhood.
Check rates for the The Standard >
6. The Tillary Hotel (Brooklyn)
Situated in Brooklyn, The Tillary Hotel is a boutique gem that offers a prime location for watching the East River fireworks on the 4th of July. With its proximity to the waterfront and thoughtful design, this hotel provides an excellent option for those seeking a memorable fireworks experience.
The Tillary Hotel features a captivating rooftop lounge, where guests can enjoy all-around views of the city skyline and the vibrant bursts of color in the night sky. With its tranquil garden ambiance, The Tillary Hotel offers a unique and relaxing setting to soak in the excitement of the fireworks show.
7. 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge (Brooklyn)
Nestled near the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge offers a captivating setting to witness the East River NYC fireworks on the 4th of July. This eco-friendly luxury hotel provides a front-row seat to the breathtaking display and immerses guests in a sustainable and nature-inspired environment.
With its prime location and emphasis on green living, 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge’s rooftop bar and lounge, Harriets, features on my list of the best dreamy rooftop restaurants in New York and you’ll have clear views of the fireworks from here. As the sky illuminates with vibrant colors, visitors can sip on artisanal cocktails, surrounded by the mesmerizing panorama of the Manhattan skyline.
Check rates and availability at 1 Hotel Brooklyn >
8. The Box House Hotel (Brooklyn)
Join the others at The Box House Hotel on the 4th of July and be part of the festivities with the hotel’s special firework-watching event. Experience a truly unique and breathtaking view of the fireworks as you step onto their magnificent rooftop.
Spanning over an impressive 10,000 square feet, this rooftop offers unbarred panoramic views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Long Island City. From this elevated vantage point, you’ll be able to witness the luminous bursts that light up the night sky in all their glory.
Check rates and availability at The Box House Hotel >
9. The William NYC (Manhattan)
Located in the bustling Financial District of Manhattan, The William NYC offers a prime location to experience the 4th of July fireworks along the East River. With its stylish ambiance and convenient proximity, this hotel is an ideal choice for those seeking a memorable fireworks viewing experience.
While The William NYC may not have a rooftop, its central location allows guests to easily access nearby spots to enjoy the fireworks extravaganza. Whether it’s finding a nearby park or exploring other vantage points along the East River, the hotel’s convenient location ensures you won’t miss out on the vibrant display.
Check rates and availability at The William NYC >
10. The Williamsburg Hotel (Brooklyn)
Escape to the heart of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, where The Williamsburg Hotel awaits to offer an unforgettable experience amidst the fireworks. With its unique blend of style and vibrancy, this hotel is the perfect choice for those searching for a truly memorable fireworks viewing experience.
The Williamsburg Hotel boasts a stunning rooftop bar and pool area, elevating the celebration to new heights. From this exclusive vantage point, guests are treated to panoramic views of the city skyline, with the East River fireworks painting the night sky in a mesmerizing display.
Indulge in the ultimate luxury on the multi-level rooftop terrace, with an expertly crafted cocktail and the ambiance that goes with it.
Check rates and availability at The Williamsburg >
11. The Refinery Hotel (Manhattan)
Views of the New York City metropolis and the spectacular fireworks can be seen from the rooftop bar and lounge of the Refinery Hotel. On the rooftop patio, visitors may sip drinks made with fresh ingredients while watching the sky light up in a kaleidoscope of color.
Choose The Refinery Hotel as your sanctuary for experiencing the 4th of July fireworks in Manhattan. Immerse yourself in the dynamic energy of the Garment District, explore the nearby cultural attractions and vibrant shopping destinations, and revel in the unmatched blend of industrial charm and contemporary luxury that The Refinery Hotel provides.
Check rates and availability for the Refinery Hotel >
Best hotels in New York to see the ball drop on New Year’s Eve
For hotels that actually offer views of the famous ball drop in Times Square
Many of these hotels offer NYE packages which include open bar, maybe dinner,
always live music and a big party!
- The Knickerbocker – best views from the rooftop terrace and bar
- Casablanca Hotel Times Square – see views from the rooftop
- M Social, Times Square, New York – views from some rooms and Perch and Terrace
- New York Marriott Marquis – head to the 48th floor restaurant for music and views
- Hyatt Centric Times Square – best views from Bar 54
- Hilton Garden Inn – views from top floor rooms
- Margaritaville Resort Times Square – views from 7th floor pool deck, and the rooftop
- The Pearl Hotel – not all rooms have Times Square views
- Renaissance New York Times Square – get a balcony room for great views, or head to the bar/lounge
- DoubleTree Suites by Hilton – 40 suites offer ball drop views
- Crowne Plaza Times Square – some rooms see the ball drop, or head to the restaurant
- Millennium Hotel Broadway, Times Square – book a room with floor to ceiling windows facing the view
- Residence Inn, Central Park – rooms above the 65th floor looking over the intersection have the view
What other New York posts can I read?
There are plenty of places to see the 4th of July fireworks in New York for free, or book a harbor cruise get amongst it at exclusive events with an open bar and live DJ.
Here’s my list of great hotels across New York for under $300 a night, all rated 8* and above on Booking.com.
Check out the cool street art scene in New York City including where to find some Banksy’s.
The dangerous history of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and balloon fails over the years with helium balloon accidents!
How to have the perfect Christmas in New York including tours to see the lights, where to skate and the best windows to see.
12 great ways to have the best New Year’s Eve in New York with private parties, harbor cruises and ball drop views.
Amazing ways to spend Valentine’s Day in New York City from free things to exclusive events.
Find my picks for the best dreamy rooftop restaurants in NYC in this post for every occasion!
My picks for awesome flea markets in NYC to pick up a quirky gift or enjoy the street food.
If you’re looking for best brunch spots in NYC, especially if you love a great bottomless brunch, you’ll love this post.
Shop till you drop in these 12 shopping locations in NYC which I’ve reviewed in this post.
