Any suggestions as the best place to view the fireworks? Are there any restaurants that we could make reservations at that would have a view of the fireworks? Also, how crowded is it on 4th of July? One more questions, are alot of the sites, museums, stores closed on the 4th?

Thanks

The only restaurants with a really good view of the fireworks are probably the Water Club in Manhattan and Water's Edge across the river in Queens (which runs a ferry from Manhattan to get you there). Both are quite pricey New American and probably have a special dinner for July 4th, which may in fact be all booked up by now.

The area around FDR drive that is closed for pedestrian viewing of the fireworks is VERY crowded. If you want to even get up there, much less get a good spot, you'll need to go quite early. The fireworks really are pretty spectacular, making it worthwhile if you're a visitor.

Stores will all be closed on the 4th. The major museums should all be open, along with the Empire State Building, Ellis Island, should all be open.

Caitlin's right. Another spot that should have a view is the River Cafe in Brooklyn but also pricey. The Circle Line boats have a special cruise for the fireworks-also probably $$

While it will be crowded, any numbered street from 60-about 23rd along the East River will provide a view. Something I've never tried is taking the tram over to Roosevelt Island (a residential island across from Manhattan) & viewing from there. The tram is at 59-60 and 1st ave across from the entrance to the 59th st bridge.

The Circle Line cruise is 4-5 hours long and costs $65. Check www.circleline.com. It's worth it in my opinion. The crowds on the FDR and just about anywhere on Manhattan are unbearable. If you want to relax and enjoy the fireworks, you're better off out in the middle of the river.

If you just want to see the fireworks, head over to Brooklyn. You can head to Brooklyn Heights and watch the downtown show from the promenade, or head over to Williamsburgh to see the main show. Both Brooklyn sites are one subway stop in from Manhattan.

You can head out early and get a good meal in either location. What type of food do you like?

We don't usually do the fireworks, but when we do, we go to see friends in Williamnsburgh.

Just my $.02.

Thanks for all of the information. A little late with the response, but we had a great time in NYC and the fireworks were amazing. More confusing this year because you could only enter FDR Dr. at a few locations from42nd to 14th and the fireworks were delayed 45 minutes. But they were worth the wait.