(Photo by Chris Hondros/Getty Images)

If you’re hoping to see Santa Claus’ red and white suit in the flesh or want to swoon at your favorite performers, then check out our top spots for viewing the 86th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Don’t forget your layers! Stay with 1010 WINS, the official radio station of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, for all the latest coverage. Keep in mind that the parade will take a slightly different route this year. Click here for the latest information. By Krissy Dolor.

Central Park West

(credit: CBS 2)

West side of street from 70th to Columbus Circle
East side of street from 70th to 65th

The parade begins at 9 a.m. on Thursday, November 22, but you should head to whichever spot you pick at 6:30 a.m. If you choose the beginning of the route, head there early so you can see the floats, balloons and performance groups enter as soon as the show starts.

Columbus Circle

(credit: Getty Images)

West side of the street

The parade then heads to Columbus Circle before turning onto Central Park South. This part of the route offers a wide view of the street since it’s an open circle, making it easy to spot famous faces on top of floats. If you get tired, cold, or hungry, just pop into the Columbus Shops – how convenient!

42nd Street

(credit: Chris Hondros/Getty Images)

From Seventh to Sixth Avenues

At this point, you’ll see the parade route turn from Seventh Avenue onto 42nd Street. Watch as the Thanksgiving Day entertainers take a break from walking down New York City avenues and march down world-famous 42nd Street. Wave to Kermit the Frog or Spongebob Squarepants, who will both be balloons in this year’s parade.

34th Street

(credit: Paul Murnane/WCBS 880)

South side of street between Broadway and Seventh Avenue

After traveling through Times Square, the parade turns east onto Sixth Avenue and heads down to Macy’s at 34th Street and Herald Square. While there’s no public viewing in front of the iconic department giant on Broadway from 34th to 38th Street, head to the south side of the street for prime viewing. You might even be able to get a glimpse of the acts before they head onto the main performance stage!

Trump International Hotel & Tower

(credit: Trump International Hotel & Tower)

One Central Park West
New York, NY 10023
Reservations: 888-448-7867
Trump International Hotel & Tower

Though hotel rooms (especially the ones with optimal view of the parade route) are booked way in advance, it doesn’t hurt to ask around and see if friends or family have planned ahead and secured a room in a key spot. Trump International gives you a front row seat at the beginning of the parade. You’ll probably see fellow parade-viewers mingling in the lobby as well.

Crowne Plaza Manhattan

(credit: Crown Plaza Manhattan)

1605 Broadway
New York, NY 10019
212-977-4000; 800-243-6969
Crown Plaza Times Square Manhattan

The Crown Plaza in Times Square is another best bet for great parade route views. You get to see the procession come down the legendary Seventh Avenue before turning onto 42nd Street, all from the comfort of your hotel room. The best part is that you’re already in the heart of Manhattan and can just take the elevator downstairs to join in the festivities outside.