Things to Do in New York on the July Fourth Weekend

The best locations to see the fireworks launching over the Hudson River include De Witt Clinton Park, a family-oriented property with lots of greenery and great views of the water; the park runs from 52d to 54th Streets between Eleventh and Twelfth Avenues. Or try Trump Place and Riverside Park South or Richmond County Bank Ballpark during the Yankees Staten Island Farm game. Choose a view directly on the Hudson River, from a restaurant, on Piers 54 or 84, at Dewitt Clinton Park or other places around the city, where you can watch 22 tons of fireworks explode off barges spanning 25 city blocks. These spectacular fireworks are presented by Macy's and include the sounds of the New York City Pops.

The city of New York offers a wealth of free events in addition to fireworks. For starters, head on down to South Street Seaport for window shopping and a free concert. Scott DeCarlo, a New Jersey native, takes the stage at Pier 17, performing rock 'n roll songs mixed with a bit of country. Buzz Universe opens the show. The 38th Annual International African Arts Festival is free and includes dance, music, poetry, kids activities' and stilt performers. Visit Historic Richmond Town on Staten Island to see beautifully maintained buildings built in the 1800s. Children have the opportunity to churn their own ice cream and then participate in a a parade.

Hot dogs are associated with barbecues and the Fourth of July, so why not participate in Nathan's Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest, held since 1916? In the contest 20 individuals line up behind a 30-foot table at Nathan's flagship restaurant in Coney Island to participate in this 12-minute contest where the contestant who can eat the most hot dogs is declared the winner. Visit Nathan's website for details at nathansfamous.com.The Great 4th of July Festival, offering different types of food vendors, patriotic entertainment, and displays, runs from Water Street from Fulton to Broad Streets, and begins at 10:00 a.m.

Departing from midtown along the Hudson River, a six-hour cruise includes an exquisite five-course dinner, dancing, and viewing the fireworks. A shorter cruise lasts four and a half hours and includes fireworks and music provided by a disk jockey and also costs less. Food and drinks are available at additional fee. This cruise leaves from midtown Manhattan. Or take a cruise on Bateaux New York, a European-inspired, all-glass vessel leaving from Chelsea Pier in Manhattan. This includes butlered hors d'oeuvres, a four-course meal, live jazz and other dance music, and views of the fireworks from the Statue of Liberty.