Escape the Crowds: Celebrate 4th of July Your Way

When you think of the Fourth of July events in New York City, images of shoulder-to-shoulder crowds on the East River or packed ferry rides to Governor’s Island might come to mind. But if you’re looking for a more relaxed and personal way to celebrate Independence Day, the Upper West Side offers a perfect blend of community charm, scenic outdoor spots, and low-key activities. 

Whether you’re a local or a visitor who prefers serenity over spectacle, here’s how to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful 4th of July on the Upper West Side—your way.

Picnic in Riverside Park: Find Your Slice of Solitude

Stretching for four miles along the Hudson River, Riverside Park is a true gem of the Upper West Side, and at only a 7-minute walk from The Wallace Hotel, it’s easily accessible for guests. Unlike its more famous neighbor, Central Park, Riverside tends to be quieter and less trafficked, especially if you venture above 79th Street. 

One of the most charming spots in the park for a Fourth of July picnic is the 91st Street Garden, made famous by the film You’ve Got Mail. This blooming corner of the park, lovingly maintained by volunteers, provides a tranquil backdrop for a mid-morning or late afternoon picnic.

Barbecue at the Great Hill: A Tucked-Away Central Park Retreat

Most people don’t associate Central Park with peace and quiet on a holiday, but The Great Hill near 106th Street and Central Park West is a lesser-known exception. This elevated, tree-lined plateau is one of the few areas in Central Park that allows grilling in designated spots, making it a rare and coveted option for those who want a traditional 4th of July barbecue without the crowds.

For guests of The Wallace Hotel, this locale is about a 13-minute rideshare away. Be sure to arrive early to secure a grilling spot, and remember that grilling is only allowed in designated zones, so follow the posted regulations.

Explore the American Museum of Natural History: Stay Cool Indoors

Need a break from the sun—or simply want to do something a bit different? Spend the earlier part of your day exploring the American Museum of Natural History. With most tourists heading downtown or to outdoor attractions, the museum can be a surprisingly calm experience on the 4th of July on the Upper West Side.

Wander the Hall of North American Mammals, marvel at the T. rex skeleton, or take a seat in the planetarium for a peaceful cosmic journey. It’s educational, air-conditioned, and a wonderful way to reflect on the long arc of history.

Best of all, the museum is located right on Central Park West, just a 10-minute walk from The Wallace Hotel, making it an easy starting point for other nearby adventures or dining options.

Attend a Community Event: Local Fun Without the Frenzy

Skip the massive parades and megawatt concerts and check out more intimate, community-driven events on the Upper West Side. In recent years, the neighborhood has hosted patriotic scavenger hunts, children’s parades, and history walking tours led by local organizations.

While the schedule varies each year, keep an eye out for events hosted by the West Side Community Garden or Riverside Park Conservancy, both of which often organize low-key holiday activities. These Fourth of July events in NYC let you connect with the neighborhood and enjoy a sense of community without overwhelming crowds, and many events are within a 15-minute walk from The Wallace Hotel.

Fireworks Viewing, Minus the Madness

While the Macy’s fireworks display is traditionally launched over the East River, there are still opportunities to catch glimpses of the show—or other smaller displays—from certain parts of the Upper West Side.

One lesser-known spot is Pier I at 70th Street in Riverside Park South. This pier extends out into the Hudson and, on clear nights, can provide distant but satisfying views of fireworks across the river or in New Jersey. It's not officially designated as a fireworks viewing site, so the crowds are minimal, and you can sit comfortably without the fanfare.

Another option is Straus Park at 106th Street and Broadway. While it doesn’t offer a direct view of the fireworks, it’s a peaceful place to wind down your evening, reflect on the day, and enjoy a late-night stroll in one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods.

Both locations are a short rideshare away from The Wallace Hotel and offer guests a less crowded option for enjoying fireworks on the 4th of July on the Upper West Side. 

Celebrate Your Way

Celebrating the Fourth of July doesn’t have to mean jostling through crowds or craning your neck for a firework photo. On the Upper West Side, you’ll find a world of options tailored to slower, more meaningful experiences—whether it’s a serene picnic, a shaded barbecue, a quiet museum visit, or a cozy dinner at a local favorite.

Here, the day can be just what you want it to be: relaxed, personal, and full of character. So skip the chaos this year—and celebrate freedom your way, on your terms, in one of Manhattan’s most beloved neighborhoods.

While visiting the Upper West Side, stay at The Wallace Hotel. It’s close to all of the alternative Fourth of July events in NYC.