LONG ISLAND CITY — The neighborhood is expected to get its best views in years of the Macy's fireworks this Fourth of July, with the show set to be shot off from barges nearby on the East River.
Whether you plan to watch the patriotic display or not, there's plenty happening in Long Island City to help you celebrate the holiday.
► Take Public Transit
Huge crowds are expected to descend on Hunters Point for the fireworks, and for safety reasons the NYPD will be closing off streets to parking from Vernon Boulevard to the East River between 44th Drive and 54th Avenue for 24 hours on July 4th.
The same streets will be closed to car traffic starting at 1 p.m., so your best bet will be to take the 7 train or another public transit option. Check the MTA website for service updates.
Meanwhile, Hunters Point South Park will also be closed to the public for the day as Macy's is using the space as its headquarters for the event.
► Paddle Your Way Around The East River
The Long Island City Community Boathouse will be offering free kayaking at Anable Basin, at 5th Street and North Basin Road, from 12 to 7 p.m. Sign a waiver and head onto the water for up to 20 minutes — even dogs are welcomed in the boats.
Participants must be able to swim and kids under 18 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian. More information here.
► Shop LIC Flea's 'Night Market' And Drink a Queens-Brewed Beer
LIC Flea and Food will be staying open late for the holiday, with its vendors selling food and goods until 10:30 p.m. Grab a beer in the market's Queens-only beer garden, featuring brews from local beermakers like SingleCut Beersmiths and Big Alice Brewing — all while taking in the fireworks show.
► Eat and Drink the Night Away
Several local eateries will be running specials for the holiday. BLVD Wine Bar, at 4720 Center Blvd., is offering an open bar deal for its house wines on tap, paired with unlimited cheese and flatbreads from 3 to 11 p.m. for $75 in advance or $100 at the door. You can make reservations by calling the restaurant at (718) 440-8520.
Meanwhile, waterfront bar and grill Anable Basin Sailing Bar will be hosting DJs and live music for July 4th. Tickets are $40 and are limited, and must be purchased in advance. Call the bar at (646) 207-1333 for more information.
► Take in the View From Above
Catch a view of the fireworks show from on-high by heading to the The Z Hotel, which is running a Fourth of July special at its 5,000-square-foot rooftop lounge.
For $175 a person you can indulge in a picnic-themed menu of hot dogs, burgers, chicken and sides like potato salad, baked beans, grilled corn and ice cream. Price includes two free drinks for those 21 and up. Email events@zhotelny.com for reservations.
► Get Your Groove On
Want to avoid the fireworks crowds on the waterfront? Catch a different crowd at MoMA PS1, which will be hosting its weekly concert in its outdoor courtyard as part of its "Warm Up" summer performances.
This Saturday's line-up includes DJs Nicky Siano and Bobbito Garcia, house music from Virgo Four and more. Tickets are $18 in advance or $20 the same day, and Long Island City residents get in for free with proof of residency.
