What are your big plans for the fourth of July this year?  Perhaps take in the fireworks from the shore of the Hudson river?  Visit Coney Island for the infamous famous Nathan’s Hot Dog eating contest?  Find a hipster’s roof in Brooklyn and BBQ some vegan burgers and asparagus while drinking a PBR?  All great options and I have tried most.

If you have never been to Coney Island, I do recommend checking out the annual hot dog eating contest.  It is all things terrible and intriguing at the same time.  I dare you to eat one after (I have and it feels weird.)

After the contest and if you can stomach the large crowds, walk down the boardwalk to Brighton beach.  Another New York spot steeped in history.  Little Odessa is home to a large Russian population and as you stroll along the beach and visit the markets you will primarily hear Russian being spoken.

Hop on a train back into the Manhattan and then pick a spot and stick to the plan for the fireworks.  Rooftops on the west side and Brooklyn are the best for the Macy’s fireworks display in the Hudson river.  You can get pretty close to the fireworks on the running path and park along the Hudson; just be warned there are thousands of others with the same idea so you don’t want to get stuck.