Fourth of July in New York City: Celebrate July 4 in Manhattan

From GoNyc.com:

While many people head to the beach for the Fourth of July, there are a wide array of activities to keep locals and visitors in New York City for July 4th entertained.

Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks Beginning at approximately 9 p.m., Macy's will have fireworks being released from 3 separate locations around the city. There will be a patriotic flyover at 8 p.m. courtesy of the U.S. Air Force. If you're not in the area, NBC will broadcast the fireworks live beginning at 9 p.m. EST. East River in Midtown Fireworks will be launched from the East River, just off 34th Street. The FDR will be closed from 14th-42nd beginning at 7 p.m. for viewing. Pedestrians can access the FDR from 23rd, 38th and 42nd streets. You can also view from areas in Western Queens and Brooklyn where you can see the East River. South Street Seaport FDR will be closed beginning at 7 p.m. from the ferry terminal to the Pearl Street ramp. The Pearl Street ramp will offer the only pedestrian access to the FDR. Downtown fireworks will be visible anywhere that offers unobstructed views of the sky south of the Brooklyn Bridge, particularly on the Brooklyn Promenade between Jermone and Cranberry Streets and on Furman between Atlantic and Cadman Plaza West. Liberty State Park Located in Jersey City, viewing is best from Liberty State Park. Consult their website for details and directions.

Roosevelt Island's July 4th Fireworks Festival 2008 For $20, view the fireworks from Roosevelt Island, in the East River. Entertainment, including music and face painting, will be available before the fireworks begin. Food, provided by Dinosaur BBQ and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase, and you are welcome to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages, but glass bottles, large coolers and oversized backpacks are not permitted. Chairs will be provided for all ticket holders -- do not bring your own. More information and directions.

Nathan's Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest At noon at Nathan's on Coney Island, watch as contestants compete to consume the most hot dogs. Those who want a good view of the contest are encouraged to arrive by 11 a.m.

Fourth of July Beach Celebration with Water Taxi For $25, enjoy a great view of the fireworks from Hunter's Point in Long Island City, with cash bar and food available for purchase. Doors open at 12 p.m. and you should bring a beach chair or blanket with you. There are also VIP tickets available for $200, and they include open bar, food, and access to a tented area. Get more information or buy tickets on Water Taxi's Beach Website.

Revolutionary Walking Tour Join Big Onion Walking Tours at 1 p.m. for a walking tour of sites related to the Revolutionary War in Lower Manhattan. Fraunces Tavern, the graves of Alexander Hamilton and General Richard Montgomery, and Federal Hall are among the sites featured on the tour. Admission: Adults $15, Seniors & Students $12. Meet at the intersection of Broadway and Murray Street, at gated entrance to City Hall Park.

Spirit of New Jersey 4th of July Cruise See the fireworks while you enjoy dinner, open bar, and live music on Spirit of New Jersey's cruise from 6 - 11 p.m. (5 p.m. boarding) for $250 per person departing from Chelsea Piers ($200 for departures from Lincoln Harbor, NJ). (Price does not include taxes, fees & required gratuities, which add about $80 per ticket.) Consult their website for details and reservations.

Circle Line July 4th Cruise See the fireworks as they light up the Statue of Liberty aboard Circle Line's cruise. A DJ will provide entertainment, and food and drink are available for purchase on board. Ship boards at 4:30pm. Sails from 5:30pm - 11:00pm. Tickets: $75. More information and required reservations available on their website.

Circle Line Downtown's Zephyr Cruise The Zephyr boards at South Street Seaport Pier 16 at 5:30, sailing from 6-11 p.m. Tickets are $170 and $120 for children, and include live DJ and buffet dinner with a cash bar available. Details and advance ticket sales are available on their website.

World Yacht July 4th Cruise Board the World Yacht at 4:30 p.m. for a dinner cruise from 5:30 - 11 p.m. The all inclusive price of $295 includes 5 course sit-down dinner, open premium bar, music for dancing and a view of the fireworks. No jeans, shorts, t-shirts, or sneakers; jackets are required for men, ties are optional and women should dress appropriately. No refunds or cancellations once your reservation is made. For more information and reservations, consult the World Yacht website for more information and make a reservation by calling 212-630-8100.

Battery Park 4th of July Concert - Sonic Youth Enjoy a free performance by Sonic Youth in Battery Park at 3:30 p.m. Details and directions available on their website. Tickets are required (but free) and will be available beginning June 12 on the River to River Website.