The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade 2025 can be watched in person along a 2.5-mile route in Manhattan, New York City, starting at West 77th Street and Central Park West at 8:30 a.m. ET and ending at Macy's flagship store in Herald Square on 34th Street.

Best Viewing Locations

• Central Park West between West 75th and 61st Streets offers a fantastic early stretch of the parade with slightly lighter crowds.
• Sixth Avenue from West 59th down to West 38th Streets is the longest and most popular viewing area with great sightlines.
• Avoid Columbus Circle and the area from West 34th to 38th Streets near Macy's Herald Square, which are restricted for the TV broadcast and ticketed grandstand areas.

Parade Route Overview

The parade starts at West 77th Street and Central Park West, heads south to Columbus Circle (where viewing is closed), makes a left onto Central Park South, then turns down Sixth Avenue and finishes at Macy’s Herald Square on 34th Street.

Additional Notes

• Spectators are advised to arrive early, as lines form as early as 6 a.m.
• The parade features giant balloons, floats, marching bands, and various entertainers.
• For those unable to attend in person, the parade is traditionally broadcast live on NBC and streaming platforms.

This route and viewing guidance should help you find the best spots to watch the Macy's Day Parade in person on Thanksgiving 2025 in New York City.