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, then there are lots of options for a NYE party you will remember forever. Here are some of our top suggestions for parties and places to be.
Watch the Ball Drop…with Dinner
While the peons crowd the square, enjoy a more exclusive party. Some of the ball drop parties are invite only. But the Times Square Olive Garden is open to anyone who can afford it. You get access to a 5 hour mid shelf open bar (8pm to 1am) and three hour buffet dinner (8pm to 11am) with fantastic Italian food from Olive Garden, featuring all the signature dishes. You’ll watch the ball drop from an exclusive outdoor viewing area. And kids are welcome.
Qualify for the Marathon
Here’s a completely different way for athletes and wannabe athletes to spend the night. Gather at the 72nd Street Transverse in Central Park and set off at the stroke of midnight on a 4 mile run with NYRR. Assuming the weather allows for it, there will be fireworks at midnight. And if you finish, you will have 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 leaves at 10pm, after dinner, and offers an open bar, stationary and passed hors d’oeuvres and, of course, champagne at midnight. An onboard DJ will play your favorite hits all night. The boat leaves from Pier 83, easily accessible by all means of transportation.
Elsewhere
The doors also open at 10pm at Elsewhere…and don’t close until 4am. Listen to Bonobo and dance the night away. With other acts, of course, on the club’s other levels. This inclusive underground club is a place where you can come as you are and leave with a new friend.
Rockefeller Centre Plaza
It’s not the cheapest option, but if you can secure tickets to the NYE Celebration at Rockefeller Center, you’ll have a dazzling party. The event includes an open bar, live jazz, gourmet dinner, and photos to record 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 Rooftop
Rooftop parties are great in New York, even in the winter. Dress accordingly and head to Elsie Rooftop, named after the creator of the very first penthouse. It’s close enough to see the ball drop live. You can sit indoors or, if you’re brave, head outside. The party includes an open bar, midnight champagne toast, and a variety of passed hors d’oeuvres. It’s known for perfectly planned parties.
Horizon’s Edge
If a regular cruise isn’t VIP enough for you, you can get tickets on the mega yacht Horizon’s Edge. This posh yet family friendly event takes place on a classy 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 get reserved seating to enjoy the dinner buffet without worrying about anyone taking your seat.
Gotham Hall
Ready to feel like a celebrity. Gotham Hall is throwing a gala for the first time ever. You’ll 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 amazing event space. Dance on the ballroom floor. The event is black tie optional, but why not dress up?
Whatever your tastes, 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.