Millions of people crowd New York City for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade each year.http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1862565,00.html If you want a prime spot for the best views of the floats, bands and action, you need a game plan, time and patience. With the right plan and a little luck, you can get a good spot at the parade that will the foundation for fond memories for years to come.

The tradition of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade began in 1924. The 2010 Macy's Thanksgiving Parade will be the 84th year of the event that is watched by millions around the world. In 2008, 3.5 million people crowded the New York City streets to see the parade's performers and floats.http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1862565,00.html

Understand the parade route. The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Route begins at 77th Street and Central Park West then moves south on Central Park West. At Columbus Circle, the parade turns east onto Central Park South. From there the parade marches until it turns south at the corner of Central Park South. The parade then marches to 42nd Street. At the Avenue of the Americas (6th Avenue), the parade turns west to Macy's Herald Square and ends at the corner of 34th Street and 7th Avenue.http://www.nyctourist.com/macys_map.htm Consider walking or driving along this route a few days before the event so you can spot good viewing locations before the crowds arrive.

If you want to find a good spot, you have to secure it early. People begin arriving as early 6:00 a.m. (parade begins at 9:00 a.m.) Be sure to factor in travel time when organizing your parade excursion. Folding chairs are not allowed as the sidewalks become crowded quickly. Remember to dress warmly because New York City is very cold in November.http://social.macys.com/parade2010/#/faqs

The organizers of Macy's Thanksgiving Parade recommend the area between 61st and 72nd Streets on Central Park West as the best viewing spot.http://www.macys.com/campaign/parade/parade.jsp According to TravelingMamas.com, one of the best Macy's Thanksgiving Parade viewing spots is between 66th and 77ths Streets along Central Park West. Although it is crowded, (as is the rest of the parade route) this is where the parade begins and the excitement is at its peak.http://travelingmamas.com/2008/10/22/6-tips-for-best-viewing-macys-thanksgiving-day-parade-in-nyc/ MidManhattan.com advises that the best hotels for viewing the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade are the Sheraton Manhattan and WestPark Hotel.http://www.midmanhattan.com/articles/aMacyParade.htm