It doesn’t matter who you are, but it does matter how you celebrate New Year’s Eve. If you happen to be in New York City you have plenty of options. Almost everywhere will likely be crowded but if your willing to head outdoors and face the blistering cold to witness a nice fireworks display, here’s a few options worth considering.
What is your best place to watch new year’s eve fireworks in NYC?
Prospect Park
Prospect Park has been the antidote to overcrowded Manhattan for many years. Bundle up for a free, low-key New Year’s Eve with fireworks sparkling over Park Slope. Live music starts at around 10:30pm at Grand Army Plaza, where you can also snag a cup of hot cocoa. At midnight, fireworks will go off at Long Meadow; the best vantage points are at Grand Army Plaza, inside the park on West Drive and along Prospect Park West between Grand Army Plaza and 9th Street.
Central Park
For many people in New York, the New Year’s Eve run in Central Park is the real deal. Instead of champagne and sequin dresses, you will find a jogger’s paradise at night. At the stroke of midnight, the NYRR Midnight Run begins. During the event, which is sponsored by the New York Road Runners, participants complete a course of approx. 4 miles and run into the new year. For many, this probably seems like a strange concept, however it’s more fun than you think! You don’t have to be a serious runner to participate. Did you know that you can even enjoy some delicious sparkling cider at the halfway point?
Not a runner? Find a friend who is, and get their guest pass for exclusive entry into the pre-race festival at Rumsey Playfield.
Brooklyn Bridge
The famous Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most popular tourist attractions all year round. It is used daily by thousands of pedestrians, bikers, joggers, and cars each day. On the last day of the year, the Brooklyn Bridge is even more of a magical place than it usually is. A brisk walk across the bridge just before midnight towards Manhattan is something you won’t forget anytime soon. The advantage of the bridge is that you can enjoy the breathtaking view of the New York skyline for free. The only disadvantage is the freezing wind that blows across the East River in winter.
Coney Island
The Coney Island New Year’s Eve Celebration typically happens at the Steeplechase Plaza on the boardwalk every year, with sideshow performers, live music, and (as long as it’s not too cold) free rides on Deno’s Wonder Wheel early in the evening. Of course, the fireworks at midnight only add to the magic. The festivities kick off at 9 p.m.
New York on the Water
New York offers fun activities on the water year-round and New Year’s Eve is not an exception. Boat tour operators offer a very special program with food drinks and fireworks. A seat on board will ensure amazing views of the Statue of Liberty surrounded by fireworks and a grandiose view of the southern tip of Manhattan. Ringing in the New Year on board a New Year’s Eve cruise is definitely worth a try.
The floating clubs provides everything you need for a perfect transition into the new year: a bar, a DJ, finger food, champagne, souvenirs, and the live broadcast of the ball drop at Times Square. Does it get any better than that?
