America’s 250th in New York City: A Guide from Aliz Hotel Times Square
In the city that never sleeps, celebration is always on the calendar. As America marks its 250th anniversary, New York City is the place to be.
After all, the city has been at the center of America’s story from the beginning. In 1776, John Adams wrote a letter to George Washington, calling it “a Kind of Key to the whole Continent.”
Today, two hundred and fifty years later, the words in that letter still ring true. Where revolutionary boots once hit cobblestones, the city is gearing up to shine with Blue Angels flyovers, unforgettable fireworks, and a full calendar of once-in-a-generation events.
From Aliz Hotel Times Square, you’re right in the middle of it all. Here’s your guide to the can’t-miss experiences as New York City marks America’s semiquincentennial.
What to Do in New York for America’s 250th
Join in as magnificent tall ships from over 20 nations sail into New York Harbor. You’ll see the largest-ever flotilla, watch a parade of naval ships along the Hudson, and enjoy an aerial review led by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels.
- Who it’s for: History lovers, aviation fans, families
- Don’t miss: A thrilling surprise after the Blue Angels fly overhead (and no, we don’t know what it is either!)
- Aliz Hotel recommends: Before heading downtown, explore Times Square! Take a photo on the iconic Red Steps, bask in the all-day lights, and feel the energy of America’s most famous intersection
Fireworks Above the Jewel Yacht
Celebrate on the water with prime fireworks views, a dinner buffet, and a premium open bar, all from a climate-controlled yacht that keeps you out of the crowds.
- Who it’s for: Groups, families, and anyone who wants Fourth of July done the easy, all-inclusive way
- Don’t miss: Open-air deck views of the fireworks and skyline sights like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge
- Aliz Hotel recommends: Book early (tickets go fast!) then end with a nightcap at our rooftop bar, Dear Hudson on Irving
This is a classic New York tradition you can’t miss. For America’s 250th, the show is staged near the Brooklyn Bridge and the East River, delivering the kind of sparkling skies you only see in movies.
- Who it’s for: First-timers, families, and those chasing the quintessential NYC experience
- Don’t miss: Arriving early to claim a great viewing spot
- Aliz Hotel recommends: Get a pre-show bite at FARMTOBURGER, and chase it with a vanilla and bourbon milkshake
For the first time ever, the famous Times Square Ball Drop is happening outside of New Year’s Eve! This means you’re just steps away from history in the making.
- Who it’s for: Anyone who loves the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop, of course!
- Don’t miss: The 2,000 pounds of red, white, and blue confetti following the drop
- Aliz Hotel recommends: It’s going to be a late night, so spend a slow morning enjoying the peace and quiet of your private pied-à-terre
“Democracy Matters” at The New York Historical
You’ll love this timely, thought-provoking exhibition exploring how democracy has expanded, shifted, and been challenged across American history.
- Who it’s for: Culture travelers, museum lovers, and history buffs
- Don’t miss: The sculpture of Thomas Jefferson commissioned by Uriah P. Levy, the first Jewish commodore in the US Navy, to commemorate Jefferson’s advocacy for religious freedom
- Aliz Hotel recommends: Enjoy a leisurely walk at nearby Central Park before you make your way back to the hotel
More History Worth the Detour
The best part about celebrating the anniversary in NYC is that the history isn’t limited to museum walls. There’s something everywhere, and from Aliz Hotel, it’s easy to explore more of it.
Not sure where to start? Here are a few essential spots to add to your itinerary:
- Fraunces Tavern: Part museum and part historic tavern, Fraunces Tavern is one of the most iconic Revolutionary-era stops in NYC.
- Federal Hall (Wall Street): Federal Hall is where George Washington took the oath of office as the first President of the United States, right in the heart of today’s Financial District.
- Trinity Church (Wall Street): One of Lower Manhattan’s most famous landmarks, Trinity Church has long served as a space where New York’s political and cultural history has gathered.
Stay in the Center of It All
Whether you’re here for fireworks above the skyline or a deeper dive into American history, there’s no better time to visit New York City. In 2026, Aliz Hotel Times Square makes the perfect home base for it all, with iconic moments just steps away.
See our current Midtown hotel deals and reserve your stay with us today. You’ll feel the pulse of NYC’s heartbeat in a truly unique year, and stay close to some truly iconic celebrations.