MAP: Where to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
There are 2.5 miles of public viewing along the parade route in NYC; this interactive map can help you find a great spot instead of getting lost in the crowd. The map, from the fine folks behind the parade, outlines when the parade will pass by, which streets have the best public views (6th Avenue from West 59th to West 38th Streets gets the thumbs-up) and which ones are restricted, such as Central Park South at Columbus Circle. Also marked are all-important things like coffee, food, and restrooms.
The parade rolls into gear at West 77th Street and Central Park West at 9 a.m. ET–though public viewing at that spot is limited. Pre-parade balloon inflation–a fun NYC tradition–happens outside of the Museum of Natural History (between West 77th and West 81st Streets). You can zoom in on the map to find out where your favorite balloons are going to be.
Early risers stake out space on the west side of Central Park West from West 75th to West 59th Streets starting at 6 a.m.; with reason, as views are great from there. Check out the map and enjoy the parade!
RELATED:
- New Yorker Spotlight: Behind the Magic of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with Creative Director Wesley Whatley
- QUIZ: Which Thanksgiving Parade Balloon Belongs in Which NYC Neighborhood?
- The history of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a grand NYC tradition
- Goku, Little Cloud, and Netflix Elves: Meet the new balloons in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
