I was actually considering making it a night out with my wife and staying in a hotel on the Jersey side for the fireworks. That would allow us to avoid having to trek home after, which from my experience 2 years ago is a big reason not to go. Doesn't sound like that's what you're looking for, but I'll put the info out there anyway for others that are interested. I chatted CS on SPG.com and found out that of the 3 Starwood hotels on the Jersey side of the Hudson, they all say they won't guarantee a room with a view of the fireworks, but the Sheraton Lincoln Harbor says they provide access to guest-only spaces on their property for viewing the fireworks.
It's not cheap, but it may well provide a great viewing as it's right in the thick of the barges.
Here's a youtube clip of the fireworks that someone took from the hotel grounds in '09: