The ball drop at Times Square on New Year’s Eve may be iconic, but the truth is that most New Yorkers wouldn’t be caught dead trapped among the thousands of people in that narrow space — too crowded, too many drunk tourists and too few bathrooms.
But looking down on the festivities from a luxurious aerie while sipping Champagne and dining on gourmet food is another matter entirely.
Here are the best places in NYC to ring in the new year — featuring amazing views of the ball drop, DJ sets, special dinners and other singular experiences.
Marriott Marquis Times Square
This unforgettable night features a five-hour premium open bar, lavish three-hour dinner buffet and a delightful two-hour dessert bar. Watch the ball drop from the outdoor terrace or reserved indoor seating while enjoying a live performance by Skip Martin, a former lead singer of Kool & the Gang, and a special video set by DJ MisterE.
AMC 42nd Street in Times Square
This celebration ranges across four floors, with a buffet dinner, midnight Champagne toast, movies all night long, a live DJ and party favors — as well as an exclusive VIP terrace to watch the views.
14th Annual Black & White Masquerade Ball
This fete at the Soho Grand is a tribute to Truman Capote’s legendary Grand Masked Ball, which he hosted in New York in 1966. This black-tie affair requires masks and dancing to the disco beats spun by DJ Reach. Enjoy Champagne, a four-hour premium bar, hors d’oeuvres and tableside bottle service — and consider upgrading to a private table, which includes a menu of caviar Bellinis and Maine lobster rolls.
Gotham Hall
The fete at this famous venue features a five-hour premium open bar, buffet dinner with desserts, midnight Champagne toast and live DJ. The VIP seated-only experience takes place in a historic ballroom with Corinthian columns and a gilded ceiling.
Mr. Purple Rooftop & Club at the Hotel Indigo
This nightclub on Orchard Street features two floors, a five-hour open bar, VIP tables, an incomparable sound system and amazing views.
The Crown Rooftop at Hotel 50 Bowery
This hip venue in the heart of the Lower East Side features amazing skyline views, a five-hour open bar and top DJs.
The Rooftop at Le Meridien
It’s hard to beat the views at this rooftop party overlooking Central Park and its iconic fireworks, featuring a four-hour premium open bar, midnight Champagne toast and special guest DJs.
Hotel on Rivington’s Rooftop
For an unforgettable New Year's Eve celebration, head to the three-floor penthouse of Hotel on Rivington (107 Rivington St.). Enjoy panoramic views of Manhattan and a five-hour premium open bar. Doors open at 9 p.m. to an evening filled with music, bubbles and glamour. Get ready to ring in the new year in style. Tickets start at $132.64.
Somewhere Nowhere
This club hosts The Book of the Forbidden party, featuring a premium open bar, live theatrical acts, music by Walshy Fire of Major Lazer and an exclusive fireworks display.
Midnight Run
Talk about ambitious — and a way to kick-start your New Year’s resolutions! Race your way into 2024 at the New York Road Runners’ annual Midnight Run, a 4-mile event that starts at midnight and ends in Central Park. Just imagine that the fireworks are the universe cheering you on.
Santa’s Secret
Enjoy the final day of this raunchy speakeasy, including drinks, performances and immersive holiday experiences.