For many New Yorkers and holiday visitors, the best part of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is the night before — when the world-famous parade balloons are inflated.
Macy’s Balloonfest 2014 is 3 PM to 10 PM on Wednesday, Nov. 26th, on the streets around the American Museum of Natural History, from 77th to 81st Streets, between Columbus Avenue and Central Park West. New this year are Thomas the Tank Engine and the Pillsbury Doughboy.
Map of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2014 Balloon Inflation Area
NYC holiday events and festivals schedule for tree and menorah lightings and more.
The only place to enter the roped off area and get up close and personal with the balloons is at 79th St. and Columbus Avenue.
You then follow the barricaded route two blocks south on Columbus to 77th St., east on 77th for one block to Central Park West, north on CPW to 81st St., to the exit at 81st and Columbus.
Balloon Inflation viewing tips:
Admission is only from 79th St. and Columbus Avenue
Balloons begin taking shape around 5 p.m., making that a great time to visit, especially for very young children.
Last admission is 9:15 p.m.
Take public transportation. Take the C to 72nd or 81st Street and Central Park West, the 2 or 3 to 72nd St. and Broadway or the 1 to 79th St. and Broadway.
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