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New York is one of the most famous places to ring in the new year. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people gather in Times Square, regardless of the weather, to watch the ball drop.
But if that doesn’t appeal to you, there are plenty of options for a NYE party you’ll remember forever. Here are some of our best suggestions for parties and places to be.
Watch the ball drop… during dinner
While the peonies crowd the square, you can enjoy a more exclusive celebration. Some ball drop parties are by invitation only. But the Times Square Olive Garden is open to anyone who can afford it. You will have access to a 5-hour open bar (8:00 PM to 1:00 AM) and a three-hour buffet dinner (8:00 PM to 11:00 AM) with fantastic Italian food from Olive Garden, with all the signature dishes. You’ll see the ball drop from an exclusive outdoor vantage point. And children are welcome.
Qualify for the marathon
Here’s a very different way for athletes and wannabe athletes to spend the night. Meet at the 72nd Street Transverse in Central Park and set off at the stroke of midnight for a 4-mile run with NYRR. Weather permitting, there will be fireworks at midnight. And if you cross the finish line, you’re officially qualified for the New York City Marathon.
Cruise the Hudson
Circle cruises offers New Year’s Eve in the best place: on the water. This 21+ cruise departs at 10pm, after dinner, and features an open bar, set and passed hors d’oeuvres and of course champagne at midnight. A DJ on board plays your favorite hits all evening. The boat departs from Pier 83, easily accessible by all means of transportation.
Elsewhere
The doors also open at 10 p.m Elsewhere…and doesn’t close until 4am. Listen to Bonobo and dance the night away. With other acts of course at other levels of the club. This inclusive underground club is a place where you can come as you are and leave with a new friend.
Rockefeller Center Plaza
It’s not the cheapest option, but if you get tickets for the NYE celebration at Rockefeller Centeryou will have a fantastic party. The event includes an open bar, live jazz, a gourmet dinner and photos to capture your memories. It’s not a live view of the ball drop, but they do have a huge TV and you probably won’t care as you hit the dance floor to welcome 2025.
Elsie on the roof
Rooftop parties are great in New York, even in winter. Dress accordingly and go to Elsie on the roofnamed after the creator of the very first penthouse. It’s close enough to see the ball drop live. You can sit inside or, if you’re brave, go outside. The party will include an open bar, champagne toast at midnight and a variety of passed hors d’oeuvres. It is known for perfectly planned parties.
Horizon’s edge
If a regular cruise isn’t VIP enough for you, you can get tickets for the mega yacht Horizon’s edge. This chic yet family-friendly event takes place on a stylish boat with three different event spaces, including a four-hour open bar, live DJs on all three dance floors and a beautiful outdoor Sky Deck. You will be given reserved seating so you can enjoy the dinner buffet without worrying about someone taking your seat.
Gotham Hall
Ready to feel like a celebrity. Gotham Hall is organizing a gala for the first time. You get reserved seating, a buffet dinner with fantastic dessert stations, access to a premium open bar and of course champagne. Listen to the DJ and enjoy this great event space. Dance on the ballroom floor. The event is black tie optional, but why not dress up?
Whatever your taste, New York is the place to be for New Year’s Eve. Check out these parties and many more! And let us know what we’re missing in the comments.