There’s no event quite as iconic or joy-filled as the Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York. Every year, millions of people line the streets of Manhattan, or tune in from their living rooms across the nation, to experience the dazzling floats, soaring balloons, marching bands, and celebrity performances that mark the official start of the holiday season.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time New Yorker, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in NYC is an unmissable celebration of community, creativity, and pure holiday spirit.
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade in NYC has been a beloved American tradition since 1924, when it first took to the streets as a way for Macy’s employees to celebrate the season and showcase the department store’s holiday spirit.
Originally featuring live animals borrowed from the Central Park Zoo, the parade has since evolved into a spectacle of artistry and engineering, featuring massive character balloons, intricately designed floats, and world-class performances.
Every year, the parade draws millions of spectators to Manhattan and more than 50 million television viewers nationwide. Its combination of nostalgia, pageantry, and modern entertainment continues to captivate audiences of all ages, ushering in the holidays with an unmistakable sense of joy and wonder.
The NYC Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade route stretches for 2.5 miles through Manhattan, beginning at West 77th Street and Central Park West and ending in front of Macy’s flagship store at 34th Street and Herald Square.
Here’s the typical route overview:
If you’re wondering where to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in NYC, it’s important to plan ahead. The parade begins at 8:30 a.m. and lasts roughly three hours, finishing around noon. Dedicated parade-watchers start arriving before sunrise to claim prime viewing spots along the route.
Finding the perfect place to watch the Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York can make all the difference in your experience. Here are some top picks:
This stretch offers some of the best, unobstructed views of the massive balloons as they make their way downtown. It’s also one of the most scenic parts of the route, with Central Park as your backdrop.
A lively viewing area with easy access to subways, shops, and cafés for warming up afterward. Arrive early; Columbus Circle fills up fast.
If you prefer to sleep in just a bit, consider viewing along Sixth Avenue. The parade slows slightly as it turns toward Herald Square, making it easier to enjoy the floats and performances.
Just four blocks from the route, the Concorde Hotel New York is perfectly positioned for paradegoers who want to skip the crowds and early commute. Step out in the morning, stroll a few minutes to the route, and be part of the excitement, then return to your room for a warm drink and a view of the city’s holiday sparkle.
Once the parade ends, the fun doesn’t stop. Take advantage of the holiday atmosphere and explore nearby attractions. Midtown Manhattan comes alive with festive decorations and shopping, from Rockefeller Center’s ice rink to the Fifth Avenue holiday windows. Bryant Park’s Winter Village, filled with artisan stalls, food kiosks, and ice skating, is just a short walk away.
If you’re staying at the Concorde, you’ll also be within minutes of some of the city’s best dining options for a Thanksgiving dinner in New York, whether you prefer a traditional roast turkey feast or a modern culinary twist on holiday classics.
The Concorde Hotel New York offers an unbeatable blend of comfort, elegance, and proximity. Located at 127 East 55th Street in Midtown, it’s just a short walk, about four blocks, from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in NYC route along Sixth Avenue. That means no taxis, no crowded subways, and no rush to find your spot.
Guests can start their morning with coffee from the on-site café before strolling to the parade route, then return to enjoy a relaxing afternoon in their spacious room or suite. With skyline views, luxurious amenities, and personalized service, the Concorde makes it easy to turn parade day into a full Thanksgiving weekend getaway.
Book your stay today for the ultimate Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York.