Strategic Thinking: Where to See the Fourth of July Fireworks in Brooklyn

If you want to see tomorrow's fireworks from Brooklyn Heights (popular option #1), better get yourself to the Promenade early. Although the fireworks don't begin until 9:20 p.m., serious viewers (along with their ice chests, folding chairs and umbrellas) start staking out the benches in the early afternoon.

But you don't necessarily have to join the huddled masses on the Promenade for a good view of the twinkling lights. You can even see the fireworks from the end of Montague Street, says the Brooklyn Eagle. The Eagle article also mentions some other good viewing areas, such as Empire-Fulton Ferry State Park in Dumbo, and Furman Street below the Promenade.

Other possibilities not mentioned above include the dock at the end of Old Fulton Street (west of Grimaldi's), the Louis J. Valentino Jr. Park and Pier in Red Hook (at Coffee Street), the new East River State Park in Williamsburg, along the waterfront near Kent Street in Greenpoint, and the Pencil Factory (also Greenpoint).

The Brooklyn Bridge is closed to pedestrians during the fireworks. In addition, the Department of Transportation provides a list of Brooklyn Heights street closings.

BTW, don't panic if you see bombers ripping through the sky. There will be a patriotic flyover at 8 p.m. courtesy of the U.S. Air Force.