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Events Featured

The Best Places for Independence Day in Downtown NYC

The Fourth of July only comes once a year, so it’s only fitting that you spend your Independence Day in Lower Manhattan where the views are spectacular, and truly the best fireworks in the city. Here’s a look at our top 6 spots to spend the Fourth:

Number 6: Roof at Park South

Photo by Roof at Park South

We’re starting off our list with the Roof at Park South, which is located at 125 E. 27th St. This venue is hosting a family-friendly rooftop cookout party from 3pm-8pm for the 4th of July this year. At this ticketless event, guests will take-in city views while indulging in Pina Colada, rose-white-and-blue frozen cocktails, mini bottle service, burgers, ribs, fried mac ‘n’ cheese bites and more. This event is the perfect pre-game for other events in the area, but after 8 pm, the venue is strictly 21 and up.

For more information, visit roofatparksouth.com/july4.

Number 5: Clinton Hall Rooftop or Courtyard Beer Gardens

Photo by Clinton Hall

Next on our list is Clinton Hall in Williamsburg, Brooklyn (247 Metropolitan Ave). This is another rooftop cookout, which runs from 2pm-8pm and includes a two-hour open bar with rose and draft beers as well as one hour of burgers, hot dogs, BBQ chopped chicken Sandwich, house-made BBQ potato chips and watermelon slices. Rain or shine, this event will be an amazing way to spend the 4th.

Tickets are $59 and can be purchased for 2pm-4pm or 6pm-8pm here.

If you’d rather spend the 4th surrounded by greenery, Clinton Hall 51 (230 E 51st Street) will be hosting another outdoor cookout in their Gigawatt Garden from 2pm-8pm.

Tickets are also $59 from either 2pm-4pm or 6pm-8pm and can be purchased here.

Number 4: R17

Photo by R17

R17, which is short for the Rooftop at Pier 17, is one of the hottest rooftops in all of Downtown. What better way to spend the 4th than indulging yourself at New York City’s best rooftop drinks destination. R17’s terraces have incredible views of the East River, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Empire State Building, so you won’t be missing any of the spectacular fireworks in the area.

If you love delicious food and drinks, be sure to make a reservation here.

Number 3: The Sentry at the American Copper Buildings

Photo by The Sentry

If you’re a fan of Naughty by Nature or Kayex, come to The Sentry at the American Copper Buildings (626 1st Avenue) on July 4th for their pool party from 5-10 pm. Not only will you be around and get to see incredible musicians, but you will also see the most incredible firework displays that New York has to offer.

This is an exclusive event. Tickets begin at $350 and can be purchased here.

Number 2: Clipper City

Photo from Manhattan by Sail Instagram

Manhattan by Sail’s 158-foot-long Clipper City (at the Battery Slip 2) is one of the most glorious tall ships in all of New York. With masts reaching 120 feet, you’ll recognize that this ship was initially intended for hauling lumber but is now a beautiful, spacious passenger-ship that lifts you high above the surface of the water.

Their family-friendly sail times are at 11:30 am, 1:30 pm and 5:30 pm on the 4th of July. Each time offers a different experience from beer-tasting to views of Lady Liberty aboard a luxury vessel that traverses the Hudson.

For more information or to reserve your spot for the 4th, visit their website.

Number 1: Classic Harbor Line Cruise

Photo by Classic Harbor Line

Our CEO’s number one choice for any holiday is aboard one of Classic Harbor Line’s beautiful cruises. Classic Harbor Line is located at 62 Chelsea Piers and offers a variety of different voyages. Whether you take the afternoon or the sunset cruise, you’ll be overcome with relaxation and bliss as you sail the Hudson River and watch the coastline’s fireworks stream across the sky. Depending on your cruise, you will have different food/drink options and experiences to view Downtown’s beautiful fireworks.

For example, aboard our favorite ship the American2.0, your food options will include real Harlem fried chicken, Little-Italy-style sandwiches piled high with cured meats and cheeses, roasted eggplant, fire-roasted tomatoes, marinated artichokes and olives served with crusty bread, deviled eggs with cajun shrimp or black truffle and more!

For more information on booking a Classic Harbor Line Cruise, visit this link!

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No matter where you spend your Independence Day, we hope that you get to see some beautiful fireworks, spend time with your loved ones, and take pride in being an American! DT

Categories
Living

Macy’s Fireworks Display Dazzles Despite Relocation

Much like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks show is a New York City tradition. Nothing says Independence Day in America like a sparkling array of light and color as an exhibition of patriotism. This year marks the 41st display.

This year, the show, which lasted about 25 minutes, was best visible from Midtown, Greenpoint and Long Island City. In years past, the fireworks were easily seen from the popular viewing location Brooklyn Bridge Park, but this year the barges were relocated to a point further up the East River.

A total of 60,000 shells, 23 colors and 50 pyrotechnicians brought the brilliant display to life for New Yorkers and Americans from all over the country who watched from home.

The show’s musical guests included Jennifer Lopez, Sheryl Crow, Brad Paisley and Hailee Steinfeld. Macy’s creative team spent a year putting together the programming, enlisting performers and arranging music. The 25 minute score was performed by the West Point Band.

Categories
Culture Events Living

Classic Harbor Line Celebrates Independence Day

Fourth of July is finally here and New York City is known for their Macy’s Fireworks. The 41st annual celebration of Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks is launching their light show from five barges stationed along the East River between East 24th and 41st streets.  It is the largest Independence Day fireworks display in the nation.

Photo courtesy of Macy’s Fireworks 

There are many places to watch the fireworks and they even include official viewing locations here. Along with those, the Classic Harbor Line offers a Fourth of July celebration including upfront views of the beautiful firework display. Who wouldn’t want to get aboard a classic style yacht and celebrate freedom?

They offer five different yachts on Fourth of July. Below are the offerings, all of them depart from Chelsea Piers.

Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise aboard Luxury Yacht Manhattan II

Photo courtesy of Classic Harbor Line – 4th of July 

A 1920’s style luxury yacht offering great views of the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, Statue of Liberty, and NYC Skyline either on its open air deck, or its glassed-in skylight observatory.

Boat: Manhattan II

Price: $598

Fourth of July sail aboard Schooner America 2.0

Photo courtesy of Classic Harbor Line – Schooner America 2.0

The 105 foot America 2.0 is the most opulent sailboat in all of New York City. It is a modernized replica of the first winner of the America’s Cup race of 1851 and is the most stunning as well as patriotic yacht in the NYC Fleet. On the yacht, guests have a complimentary open bar, hors d’oeuvres prepared by their on board chef and a 3-hour excursion on the Hudson River (amongst the entire New York July 4th flotilla).

Boat: America 2.0
Price: $498

Fourth of July Cruise aboard Yacht Manhattan

Photo courtesy of Classic Harbor Line – Manhattan

Like the Manhattan II, it is also a 1920’s style luxury yacht offering great views of the 4th of July fireworks, Statue of Library, and NYC Skyline. This cruise includes complimentary beer, wine, champagne, soda, water, four courses of passed hors d’oeuvres, and lastly, dessert.

Boat: Manhattan
Price: $498

Fourth of July Sail aboard the Schooner Adirondack

Photo courtesy of Classic Harbor Line – Schooner Adirondack

The Adirondack ensures an experience of great views of the fireworks and the New York City skyline during this joyful, picturesque sail. Your sail includes open beer, soda, wine, and champagne bar. Guests can bring their own picnic or snacks; however, hors d’oeuvres will be provided.

Boat: Adirondack
Price: $468

Fourth of July Cruise aboard Yacht Kingston

Photo courtesy of Classic Harbor Line – Yacht Kingston

Known as the most intimate classic yacht in town, step aboard and take in the spectacular fireworks on the East River. Along with 29 other guests, you will zip out on to the Hudson & East Rivers in style! It is a 1920’s style water taxi and features wrap-around seating, a covered area midship and an uncovered forward and back deck to observe fantastic skyward views. Along with a well-appointed restroom, there will be a fully stocked bar available.

Boat: Kingston
Cost: $428

The spirit of July 4th will fill the harbor! Buy tickets here for a Fourth of July you will never forget and keep the Classic Harbor Line in mind for other yacht ventures in your future.

Categories
Culture Entertainment Events

Where to Watch The Fireworks This 4th of July

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The 4th of July is one of those holidays you either love or hate. My family is in the latter camp because for us, the holiday was always spent coddling our terrified border-collie. The loud unpredictable bangs were too much for her neurotic demeanor. I however, unlike my dog, and most house pets, love the 4th of July. Something about the gathering of friends and family under a lit-up night sky reminds me of New Years Eve, hope and excitement for the future. I am also a sucker for a classic burger and seasonal attire.

Many New Yorkers will flood the highways this weekend to escape the city for a relaxing few days. However, staying here does not mean you will have to miss out on the wonders of 4th of July fireworks. New York City is full of rooftop bars with breathtaking views of the skyline, perfect for watching the colors erupt over the city. Another special way to witness the celebration is from a sailboat or cruise.

Here are some picks from Downtown for great places to watch this year’s fireworks:

 

Penthouse 808 at Ravel Hotel

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The Standard, East Village

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The Ides Rooftop Bar at the Wythe Hotel

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Hudson Hotel Sky Terrace

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South Street Seaport

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World Yacht 4th of July Cruise

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Shearwater or Clipper City Sail

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Categories
Dining Events Living

Industry Kitchen to host a spectacular Jul. 4 event on South Street

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For us long-term Lower Manhattanites, watching the fireworks on July 4 has been a decades-long emotional roller coaster full of excitement, confusion, and disappointment. Year after year, they switch rivers from east to west, move them further uptown, cancel them altogether, and — most recently — demolish the best viewing spot, Pier 17 at the South Street Seaport; fortunately, Pier 17 is in the process of being rebuilt.

Luckily, this year, Industry Kitchen — located at 70 South Street at Maiden Lane — is offering prime, waterside viewing space. Beyond the fireworks, there will be a buffet of food, drinks, and a DJ to keep you entertained while you wait.

The 5,000 square-foot venue can accommodate up to 300 guests with indoor and outdoor seating, offering unobstructed views of the East River with the Brooklyn and Williamsburg Bridges and Brooklyn Skyline—and, of course, the Macy’s Fireworks Show. Guests have the option to dine within the scenic outdoor area or to sit at the freestanding island bar, while sipping the restaurant’s thirst quenching signature cocktails, wines and craft beers.

Industry Kitchen
Industry Kitchen

Appetizers will include Industry Kitchen house salad, made with heirloom tomato, and buffalo mozzarella; basil pesto grilled summer vegetables; and balsamic glaze watermelon gazpacho.

Mains will include baby back ribs made with Jack Daniels BBQ sauce; guajillo-marinated skirt steak with chimichurri; beer can-roasted chicken with lemon sauce; grilled miso-marinated salmon with pineapple jalapeno salsa; meatballs in tomato sauce; sausage and peppers; and, of course, good old-fashioned burgers.

On the side, there’ll be Industry Kitchen Rosemary Roasted Potatoes; corn on the cob; and smoked cheddar mac & cheese.

If you have room for dessert — and if you don’t right away, you will eventually, since the fireworks won’t start ‘til after dark — try the mini apple tarts, bourbon pecan pie, brownies, banana cakes, white chocolate cake, and a fruit platter.

Industry Kitchen
Industry Kitchen

Depending on your selected ticket option — see below — you can nab a reserved seat at the bar, patio, or at a table either inside or out, and will be assigned on a first come, first served basis.

Reserved Seating
Price: $238

• Premium open bar and buffet
• Views of the Macy’s NYC fireworks display
• Assigned outdoor or indoor seating
• Seating will be assigned on a first come, first served basis — many tables are communal, so smaller parties may share seating with similar sized parties

Bar Seating
Price: $175

• Premium open bar and buffet
• Views of the Macy’s NYC fireworks display
• Assigned outdoor or indoor seating
• Bar seating is optimal for smaller parties or individual
• Bar stool seating may apply
• Party sizes of 2 or more are not recommended for this area
 
Under 21
Price: $94
• Buffet and unlimited nonalcoholic drinks
• Views of Macy’s NYC fireworks display
• Assigned outdoor or indoor seating
• Seating will be assigned
• Buffet will be consistent with other tickets
 
Food & Drinks: Seating opens early with a cash bar at 5:00 PM, with an open bar and buffet to follow at 7:00 PM. All pricing includes sales tax and gratuity. Guests must present valid ID; guests under 21 cannot be seated at the bar and must be accompanied by an adult.

To buy tickets, click on over to: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/industry-kitchens-4th-of-july-celebration-and-independence-day-party-tickets-21119400696?aff=es2.

Categories
Events Fashion Living

Spice Up Your 4th of July Look With Your Own Style

Every Fourth of July, we do our duties as Americans to show our patriotic pride by wearing the brightest of blues, reds and whites. This year to really stand out in the crowd, Downtown Magazine collaborated with Ford Models Administration Assistant and freelance stylist, Erica Boisaubin, to bring you looks that compliment both your American pride and personal style.

Our first look is perfect for a dinner or sunset cruise. The black pencil skirt dresses up the red bustier just enough while the sneakers keep the look balanced and comfortable. The denim jacket adds the blue touch to complete the patriotic look.

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Photo Courtesy of Haylie Born

Red Bustier: Cameo

Black Pencil Skirt: H&M

Denim Jacket: Levi’s

To dress this look down, drop the denim jacket and throw on a pair of jeans. This makes the outfit practical for a barbecue or festival.

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Photo Courtesy of Haylie Born

 Sneakers: Adidas

Mom Jeans: H&M

Our next look keeps it classy but relaxed. The white crop top keeps it simple so the printed pants can be the focal point. We complimented the ensemble with dainty gold jewelry and applied red lipstick to tie in all of the patriotic colors. This look is perfect for firework watching, a family reunion, an event on the pier or even the beach. To dress it down, throw on a jean jacket. If the party is a bit more formal, slip on a pair of heels and wear a statement necklace.

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Photo Courtesy of Haylie Born

White top: Zara

Pants: H&M

Shoes: Target

If your taste is more earthy and relaxed, bring out your inner boho-chic. Keep it simple with a neutral tone and add your choice of a bold red or blue to top it off.

This outfit is perfect for a BBQ with your friends and family or a block party on the boardwalk.

Photo courtesy Krissy Lewis
Photo courtesy Krissy Lewis

Top: Brandy

Bottom: Brandy

Shoes: Zara

Or hang out with friends at a rooftop party and watch the fireworks.

Photo courtesy of Krissy Lewis
Photo courtesy of Krissy Lewis

Bandu bra: Urban Outfitters

Overalls: Zara

Kimono: Tobi

Shoes: Zara

Photo courtesy of Krissy Lewis
Photo courtesy of Krissy Lewis

Skirt: Urban Outfitters

Top: Forever21

Flannel: Forever21

You can always switch out your sandals for a nice pair of heels to dress any of these looks up.

Our Street Style Scouters will be out and about this weekend covering various events and may want to feature your look! Stay tuned next week for our favorite looks of the weekend.

By-Haylie Born and Krissy Lewis