Reported by Mitchell Kabakow for Flatiron Hot! News

The 4^th of July is coming up and what better place to celebrate our nation’s independence than Manhattan. The city plays host to a number of events for Independence Day and whether you are looking for delicious dining or a fun afternoon out, you will find something to do in Manhattan the week of the 4^th. Here are our top picks for independence week.

Watch the fireworks at Madison Square Park

The Macy’s 4^th of July fireworks show is celebrating its 42nd year and promising its biggest show in over a decade. Starting at 9:25 pm the sky will be lit up in honor of our nation’s independence and Madison Square Park is the perfect place to watch the show. Whether you want to bring the family for a picnic dinner or grab a bite at the Shake Shack with friends, celebrating the 4^th in the park will be an unforgettable experience.

Have some fun at the 4^th of July barbecue at 230 Fifth rooftop bar

Looking for a great barbecue this 4^th? The rooftop bar at 230 Fifth has you covered. Doors open at noon and for a $20 cover charge you can enjoy any free drink between 7 pm and 9 pm. Food will be served all day until midnight. No reservations are required to come but bottle service must be ordered in advance. Great for meeting people and enjoying the holiday in an exciting way.

Grab some Texas BBQ classics at Hill Country

Nothing says 4^th of July like barbecue and Hill Country is one of the best BBQ restaurants in the city. Located at 30 W 26^th Street, this spacious restaurant is perfect for meat lovers of all stripes. Enjoy Texas barbecue favorites like beef brisket and ribs as well as delicious desserts such as the jelly-filled cupcakes with peanut butter frosting. The restaurant also has a wonderful bar known for cowboy classics like bourbon and tequila as well as a Texas-centric wine and cocktail list. If you want to celebrate the 4^th like they do in the lone star state but don’t want to pay for a flight, Hill Country is the place to be.

Catch a show at the PIT

The Peoples Improv Theater or PIT is the perfect place to catch a show in Chelsea. Always inexpensive and exciting, this black box theater located at 123 E 24th Street is the perfect place to laugh this 4th of July. The doors open at 5:00 pm and there is a show every night. The theater and its improv school have taught and introduced a number of great performers over the years with alumni including Kristen Schaal, Hannibal Buress, and Michelle Wolf. If you are looking for entertainment this July 4^th weekend, take a dive into the PIT.

Escape to Escape the Room NYC

If you are looking for a pre-fireworks afternoon activity to do with friends of family or if you are in the mood for a bit of a challenge, then Escape the Room NYC is the place to be. Located at 24 W 25th Street, this popular entertainment venue challenges guests with a number of fun and interactive puzzles while they try to complete the escape-the-room experience in less than 60 minutes. Highly recommended for groups of family and friends, this is the perfect indoor activity for any hot summer afternoon.