Information that I used the year we went:
ASK JOE the DOORMAN's PARADE TIPS
Q: Hey Joe... We're coming this year to see the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Any suggestions as to where best to view it? Enough of watching it on TV, this time it's going to be in person.
A: I recommend Central Park West between 61st and 72nd Streets if it is a sunny day (it'll keep you warm). Or along Broadway from 57th to 49th Street if the weather isn't so nice (places to take cover). In the Times Square area, the barricades are along opposite sides of the street so you're not as close. Here is what Macy's recommends: From Central Park West: the west side of the street from 70th Street to Columbus Circle and on the east side of the street from 70th to 65th Street.
Columbus Circle: the west side of the street.
Broadway: between 58th and 38th Streets.
34th Street: the south side of the street between Broadway and 7th Avenue.
There is no public viewing or press access on Broadway from 34th to 38th Street. On 34th Street from Broadway to 7th Avenue limited viewing is available on the south side of street only. To ensure a good viewing location, get there early. Spectators arrive as early as 6:30 a.m.
Q: Hey Joe...What is the recommended arrival time to get a decent viewing spot on the parade route?
A: You should really get there by 7am (even 6am or earlier along Central Park West). And yes, officials recommend you please leave folding chairs at home. They will become cumbersome when the crowds start filling up the sidewalk and will have to be folded up. Dress in layers to keep warm. November in Manhattan can be quite cold. Come rain or shine.
Q: Hey Joe... I heard my favorite star is performing at the parade, where do I see them?
A: Any performers will be live for television. Celebrities ride on floats down the parade route and will perform at the Official Viewing Area (see above) on 34th Street. You'll have to go to this area which is very crowded and well restricted in order to get a glimpse of the performers. It's best to get a good spot on the main route and tape the NBC broadcast.
Q: Hey Joe...Which hotels have rooms overlooking the parade?
A: The Marriott Marquis, Renaissance NY, Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza, Novotel, Ameritania, Trump International and Mayflower on the Park are on the route. Just remember to ask for a room with a view of the parade and, if possible, no higher than the 12th floor. Information can be found in the Midtown West and Uptown sections of our listings.
Q: Hey Joe...What's a good restaurant to have Thanksgiving dinner?
A: Most American & Continental restaurants have special fixed price dinners that day. See our listings for phone numbers because you will need reservations. My pick: the $30 Thanksgiving Dinner at Session 73 on the Upper East Side.
Q: Hey Joe...How do I get tickets for seating at the parade?
A: You don't. Seating is restricted to Macy's executives, corporate sponsors, NBC, politicians, charitable organizations, etc. You can bring your own seats if you get there early enough and get a spot at the curb.
Q: Hey Joe...I want to go to the Big Balloon Blow-Up the night before. What time should I show up?
A: The balloons start getting inflated at about 4-6pm on 77th & 81st Streets between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue. You won't see too much earlier. The best time is around 5pm and the events ends at 8pm. It's most fun seeing them inflated. If you go too late, you'll miss most of the action.
Q: Hey Joe...Is there a Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade hotline I can call?
A: YES! Call 212-494-4495
This is dated and some of the information like phone #'s and dinner prices are outdated, but not the actual help information.
I went in 2002. It was FREEZING!
