The Ultimate Guide to Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2024 in NYC

Planning to Brave the Crowds? 🗽️ New York City is expecting a chilly, rainy Thanksgiving Day, so dress warmly! Before we dive into the best viewing spots, here’s what you need to know:

Best Viewing Spots for Parade Enthusiasts

• Top Pick: West 59th to West 38th Streets along 6th Avenue for unobstructed views
• Early Bird Special: West side of Central Park (between West 75th Street and West 61st Street) from 6 a.m.

Areas to Avoid (No Public Viewing Allowed)

• Parade start: West 77th Street and Central Park West
• Turning point: Columbus Circle
• National TV broadcast area: West 38th Street to West 34th Street
• Parade end: Macy’s Herald Square (West 34th Street between Broadway and 7th Avenue)

Limited Grandstand Tickets: Not available for public purchase

Sneak Peek: Balloon Inflation 🎈

• When: Wednesday, 1-6 p.m.
• Where: Entrance at 72nd Street and Columbus Avenue (around the American Museum of Natural History)
• Exit: Use West 82nd to West 86th Streets

Getting to the Parade: Subway Guide 🚂

• Closest stations:
  • 1, 2, 3 at 72 Street
  • 1 at 79 Street
  • C at 81 Street
  • 1, C, A, D at 59 St-Columbus Circle
• Additional service: S 42 Street Shuttle and increased early morning service on the 1 line
• Note: Some subway entrances at 59 St-Columbus Circle will be closed to prevent overcrowding

What to Leave Behind: Security Reminders 🚫

• Large bags
• Umbrellas
• Backpacks
• Strollers
• Security searches may be conducted at viewing street entrances

NYC Thanksgiving Weather Forecast ⛈️

• Rain Alert: Expect 0.5-1 inch of rain over 6-12 hours on Thursday
• Wind Update: Light winds (5-10 mph) with higher gusts; below the 23 mph/34 mph thresholds for safe balloon flying