We will be in NYC Thanksgiving Eve and would like to watch the balloons being inflated. Please advise the best viewing area, with 8 and 5 yr old girls. Thanks for the help.

The balloons are blown up on the upper west side on Central Park West. I would head over to the Museum of Natural History which is at 79th st. The balloons take pretty much all night long to get ready for the big day.

Bring lots of hot chocolate to keep warm and wear warm clothing, it's probably gonna be cold.

Have a great time while you are here.

I would suggest that in addition to the best viewing spot (you can just wander the streets bordering the museum as the poster suggested) the best viewing -time- is nearer to 10 pm. You may want to consider having your children take naps if they are not used to staying up so late. It takes the balloons awhile to start inflating into something recognizeable. Many shops in the area stay open late because this is such a popular activity to provide beverages, etc.

Thanks for the great suggestions. We will be seeing the 5:00 show at Radio City on that day. Can anyone recommend a great, casual restaurant in the area of the museum? That way, after dinner we can head over to watch balloons. Thanks again

ttt

The balloons are blown up on 77th and 81st Streets between Central Park West and Columbus Ave. You can't get too close but the crowds get smaller the later it gets. Isabella's is a popular restaurant located on the corner of 77th and Columbus. There are lots of restaurants in the area. Indicate food preference for more suggestions.