How to View the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

Few events are as time-honored and traditional as the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. It's an event that draws millions of people to New York City each year, and millions more watch it on TV while their turkeys cook in the oven. Here are some tips on seeing the parade in person for the brave souls (like my family) who go year after year.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Warm clothing
• A camera
• Snacks for your group that should include a thermos with warm drinks.

1. The parade begins at 77th St and Central Park West, at the American Museum of Natural History. It marches south on Central Park West to Columbus Circle, and follows the circle to Broadway. From there, the parade heads south along Broadway and ends at 34th St and 7th Ave., near Macy's Herald Square.
2. The best places to view the parade seem to be anywhere along Central Park West, closest to where the parade kicks off. Remember that 2.5 million people come to see the parade in person each year, so expect huge crowds and some limited visibility. The best tip is to get there as early as possible for the 9 a.m. parade, because people start finding viewing spots as early as 6:30 a.m.
3. Dress in layers, because New York City weather in November can be icy cold. Some years, it's balmy and other years your feet will feel like blocks of ice. Bring gloves, hats and scarves, particularly if you have small children. Many viewers also bring blankets that they can share.
4. Bring a thermos of hot cider or coffee, but remember to drink sparingly. Unless you sit down and order in a restaurant, you will find no place where you can use a rest room during the parade.
5. Turn the parade visit into a learning experience by going to the Macy's website and reading about the parade, which has been around since 1924 and was made famous by the holiday film, "Miracle on 34th Street." There are a number of great books about the parade, including "The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade" by Robert M. Grippo, which you can order from Amazon.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are staying in the city for several days, try to watch the famous parade character balloons being inflated. It's a fun event that takes place the night before the parade at 77th and 81st Streets between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue. Try to get there between 4 and 5 p.m., and it's usually over by 8.
• For up-to-the-minute information about the parade, call the parade hotline at [phone].
• For information about New York City hotels, call the Convention and Visitors Bureau at [phone].