What to Do on the 4th of July in Queens — The Best of Queens, NYC

Where to Watch the Fireworks

The Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks show will be held along the East River, making Long Island City’s Gantry State Plaza Park a prime viewing spot. Bring your picnic blankets and be prepared to stake out your space for the 25-minute extravaganza, during which 65,000 shells will be released in a variety of colors and shapes, “creating dramatic effects a mile across the river and from 1,000 feet in the air to the water's edge.”

While You Wait

American Brass (2-01 50th Ave) in Long Island City will serve brunch, a raw bar and drinks menu midday and a three-course dinner for $75 a person at night. The fireworks are directly in front of the restaurant on the waterfront, making it the place to be. See the show without being shoulder-to-shoulder with thousands of people while having a delicious meal and drinks at American Brass.

VISTA SKY LOUNGE: Four Points Sheraton LIC, 27-05 39th Avenue Top Floor, Long Island City, NY 11101

Surely, anything with food, family, and fireworks is going to be a good time! And Vista Sky Lounge is having a 4th of July rooftop party! Enjoy spectacular views and take in the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks while eating and drinking! Doors open at 6pm and the entry price is $125 per person. The fee includes a buffet and one glass of wine or beer. A cash bar will also be available.

For inquiries and reservations call 347-536-3640 or email AP@vistany.com

Penthouse LIC: Fireworks Viewing Party by Profundo - Join us at The Penthouse in Long Island City, notorious for their unobstructed waterside views of Manhattan, for a special firework viewing party on July 4th with complimentary passed hors devours, cash bar, or bottle service table reservations. Info here.

Where to Picnic or Barbecue

Queensbridge Park has the incredible views of Manhattan that you need for your perfect grill. Be prepared to eat, nap, and wake up in time for the Macy’s fireworks show.

What to Buy Next Door: Locally-sourced hops and malts that produce craft beers with the freshest artisanal flavors while also supporting our state's farmers at Big aLICe Brewing. Try their Sleep Now in the Fire draft.

Head to Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, which is complete with two barbecue areas on either side of the Meadow Lake, recreational courts and fields, and sun lounging spots for those who like to roast after their roast pork. The east barbecue area permits a more private barbecue away from the road.

Alley Pond Park has a complete golf experience with 72 driving stations, PGA simulator, mini golf, putting greens & bunker and sports bar & grill, perfect for working up an appetite before a long, hot grilling session of your own. There are two barbecue areas but bring your own equipment!

What to Buy Next Door: Chipotle honey chicken tacos at Hot Peppers Mexican Restaurant

Forest Park: On this 110-acre plot of land filled with lush hiking trails, bridle paths, and one of New York City’s best golf courses, there’s one barbecue area, hidden amongst the trees where you can have a quiet family gathering to yourself.

What to Buy Next Door: Neir’s Tavern, one of the oldest bars in the US, has the most sumptuous fried chicken thigh sandwiches. Zum Stammtisch, a bonafide German bierhall, has the goulash soup, bratwurst, and jägerschnitzel of your dreams.

Photo via Zum Stammtisch — Photo via **Zum Stammtisch**

Baisley Pond Park has great largemouth bass fishing, but even better barbecue at Sutphin Boulevard.

What to Buy Next Door: Jerk chicken pasta salad in a white tablecloth setting at The Door

Cunningham Park: Take a trek out to Cunningham Park - it’s worth it. A native hardwood forest, Cunningham Park provides open fields and shade in spades. Relax under the verdant canopy as you prepare your signature barbecue dishes.

What to Buy Next Door: Eggplant tofu with sweet and creamy Thai iced tea at Kin’d

Highland Park walks the line between Queens and Brooklyn at the Ridgewood Reservoir, with trails crisscrossing the barbecue site. A former reservoir, it’s since returned to its pristine natural state, with woods, wetlands, and some of the best birdwatching in the state. It features picnic tables, double and single grills and an open lawn to make your family reunion or special celebration a memorable event.

What to Buy Next Door: Chicken & waffles eggs benedict at Ltauha

Your Ultimate 4th of July Guide to Fireworks, Picnics, and BBQ in Queens