When people think about the best views of the New York City skyline, most visitors head straight to Manhattan or Brooklyn.
Meanwhile, almost everyone in Queens knows a quiet spot with incredible views and fewer crowds.
Whether you’re heading to the Rockaways for a beach day or looking for a peaceful place to spend Independence Day weekend, southern Queens offers several hidden gems with panoramic views of New York Harbor, Lower Manhattan, and the surrounding waterways.
Flor de Fred has put together a list of the best places to watch 4th of July fireworks in Queens, enjoy sunsets, and spend time with friends and family all through the Summer.
Explore more local guides in our Things to Do in Queens series, featuring holiday ideas, neighborhood activities, and New York cannabis recommendations throughout the year.
Sunset Cove Park
Located inside Broad Channel American Park, Sunset Cove Park is one of the most overlooked waterfront viewpoints in Southern Queens.
This location offers an unobstructed view across Jamaica Bay toward Lower Manhattan, while surrounded by acres of preserved natural areas.
This spot is perfect for anyone looking to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter setting.
The park includes a parking lot for drivers, while public transportation users can take the Q53-SBS to Cross Bay Boulevard and West 17th Road.
Tribute Park
Tribute Park combines history with some of the most peaceful waterfront scenery in all of New York City.
Following the events of September 11, 2001, local residents created a memorial honoring those who lost their lives. Today, the park serves as a place for remembrance overlooking Jamaica Bay.
Visitors often come to watch sunsets, passing boats, and distant views of the New York City skyline. Couples and photographers will especially appreciate this tranquil location.
The park is easily accessible from the final stops of both the Q53 bus route and the A to Rockaway Park.
Marine Parkway Bridge
Connecting Brooklyn and Queens, the Marine Parkway-Gil Hodges Memorial Bridge offers one of the most impressive waterfront viewpoints in the borough.
The Queens side of the bridge provides open sightlines with views stretching through Brooklyn to Manhattan.
You can walk across the bridge or explore the surrounding waterfront areas, and find plenty of opportunities for skyline views.
Visitors arriving by public transportation can take the Q35 bus to Rockaway Point Boulevard and walk to nearby viewing areas.
You can make a day out of exploring this whole area which includes Jacob Riis Park and Fort Tilden.
What to Bring for a Fireworks Watch Party
- Water
- Snacks
- Portable speaker
- Phone charger
- Folding chairs
- Favorite cannabis products
No holiday gathering is complete without good company and your favorite products.
Here are some of our most popular brands in stock at Flor de Fred for planning your holiday weekend.
Stiiizy
One of the best known brands in America, Stiiizy built its reputation through classic strain offerings as vapes and prerolls. Best sellers include Blue Dream, Purple Haze, and Pink Acai.
Anthem
Anthem has infused products featuring premium flower and stylish designs with glass or wood-tips creating a much smoother smoking experience for the cannabis connoisseur.
Their non-infused multi-packs are a more approachable option for newer consumers looking to start with something milder.
Presidential
For experienced consumers, Presidential’s infused pre-rolls use flower, concentrate, and kief together in a single product. These potent pre-rolls are designed for consumers with higher tolerances.
Popular strains such as NYC Diesel, Pink Cookies, and King Louis continue to be among customer favorites.
Itinerary for 4th of July Fireworks in Queens
- Morning: Quick Pickup at Flor de Fred (10am)
- Beach day at Rockaway Beach (11am)
- Afternoon: Early dinner by Rockaway Park (5pm)
- Evening: Sunset at Tribute Park (8pm)
- Night: Fireworks viewing with cannabis game and group activities (9pm)
Fireworks Watch Party Games
Looking for things to do while you wait for the sky to light up?
Randomly pick a color before the fireworks start and keep score throughout the night.
- Red and white are the most common colors found in major fireworks displays
- Blue is one of the most difficult colors for pyrotechnics to produce
- Green, orange, and yellow make regular appearances throughout any good show
The person who spots their chosen color the most times wins.
When the fireworks are over, keep the conversation going by ranking some of the most memorable performances of the National Anthem.
Rank these National Anthem performances from worst to best.
- Roseanne Barr
- Marc Anthony
- Fergie
- Jimi Hendrix
- Ingrid Andress
- Whitney Houston
- Chris Stapleton
- Other
- Yourself
Where to Buy Cannabis in Queens for 4th of July
Before heading out for fireworks, beach trips, barbecues, or family gatherings, make sure you’re prepared.
Stay hydrated, bring snacks, designate a safe ride if necessary, and stop by Flor de Fred for your favorite cannabis products.
Conveniently located near Resorts World Casino, JFK Airport, and Cross Bay Boulevard, Flor de Fred proudly serves customers throughout Queens and beyond.
We also offer cannabis delivery to hotels, and eligible addresses throughout Southern Queens, Eastern Brooklyn, and Western Nassau County.
Flor de Fred is here to help make your holiday weekend complete while you spend it at the beach, along the waterfront, or watching fireworks with friends. Have a safe and memorable Independence Day weekend.
See you soon.
Stay Local. Stay Queens.
Flor de Fred team
