12 Best Cities Across America to Welcome the New Year with a Bang
As the final hours of the year tick away, the excitement of welcoming a fresh start fills the air. Leave the bad behind, and bring on the new year with a bang!
While Times Square in New York City may be the most iconic spot to ring in the new year, many other cities across America have incredible epic fireworks displays, lively street parties, or degenerate raves.
Having always made it a priority to go to insane parties every year, I’ve tried many US cities for their NYE celebrations. Here are my top picks for the best cities for New Year’s to have a night to remember.
1. New York City, NY
Let’s start off with the obvious choice – The Big Apple! As cliché as it may sound, there’s nothing quite like New Year’s Eve in New York City.
With the iconic ball drop in Times Square, millions of people from all over the world gather to watch and celebrate together. I’ve tried it, and I wouldn’t recommend this overrated stop unless you want to stand in the cold with no bathroom for 10 hours.
However, the general energy and excitement are unmatched, and the city is overflowing with NYE events, parties, and concerts.
2. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas knows how to throw a party on any day, but New Year’s Eve is a special kind of wild. The Strip dazzles with massive fireworks that light up the night sky.
Many clubs feature headliner DJs who keep the music going until dawn. I would be at the Sphere every day, if I were living there.
Pace yourself because you can bet the celebration might continue long after midnight.
3. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans knows how to party, and New Year’s is no exception. Locals and visitors crowd Bourbon Street for live music, parades, and plenty of gumbo or beignets. Jackson Square usually hosts a grand countdown for the fleur-de-lis drop and fireworks over the Mississippi River.
If you need a break, grab a balcony spot to people-watch and recharge for round two. In true local style, the fun doesn’t end until the sun comes up.
You can also attend the New Year’s Eve Sugar Bowl Parade, the masquerade party at the House of Blues, or visit the Saenger Theater for New Year’s festivities.
4. Seattle, Washington
Every year, the Emerald City goes all out for New Year’s in spite of its reputation for dreary weather. Fireworks light up the sky above Puget Sound, as well as parties, concerts, and festivals throughout the city.
There are lots of fireworks displays, but those with the Space Needle as the backdrop can’t be beat.
You might start your first day of January with a walk along the waterfront if you manage to wake up early.
5. Boston, Massachusetts
Walk the charming and historical streets of Beantown for fun First Night festivities all night long.
Since 1976, this beloved tradition has featured live music, theater performances, and amazing fireworks over the harbor. Ice sculptures pop up around the city, and street performers keep everyone entertained before midnight.
6. Atlantic City, New Jersey
The Casinos and boardwalk amusements of Atlantic City sets the stage for a memorable countdown. Also known as “America’s Playground,” many resorts host parties with live DJs and lavish buffets. The best thing about it is that it is a lot cheaper of a New Year’s place than NYC or its counterpart in Vegas.
The boardwalk itself transforms into a walkway of neon lights and buzzing excitement. As the clock strikes midnight, enjoy the fireworks spectacular over the Atlantic Ocean. If you aren’t ready to call it a night, just head for a casino and keep the celebration going.
7. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
This city goes big with fireworks at Penn’s Landing and a street party that feels genuine and down-to-earth.
Winterfest offers food, ice skating, and events for the whole family. Rittenhouse Square is the place to go to see fireworks on the Delaware Riverfront, and on New Year’s Day, the Mummers parade is not to be missed.
The parade has been a Philadelphia tradition since 1901, and today, more than 10,000 participants, in their glittery bests, do the “Mummers Strut” down Broad Street.
8. Chicago, Illinois
Fireworks at Navy Pier might be the main draw, but the city’s nightlife extends well beyond the waterfront. The Windy City sees plenty of parties, and you’re likely to find live music in countless venues.
Navy Pier is packed with restaurants and bars and they are all hosting a party. At midnight, there will be fireworks over Lake Michigan, and you’ll be perfectly placed to see them from the Pier.
Revelers sometimes gather in Millennium Park for ice skating, though it can get busy. You can also find events at the House of Blues, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the Lincoln Park Zoo.
9. Nashville, Tennessee
Music flows through this city’s veins, and New Year’s Eve is no exception. All of the bars and clubs will be celebrating with live music but there will be some special events happening too.
There’s “A Night to Remember and a Year to Forget” at Tin Roof on Demonbreun, New Year’s Eve at Nashville Underground, the New Year’s Eve Bash at The Grand Ole Opry, and a huge party at the Hard Rock Cafe Nashville.
Some folks gather at Bicentennial Capitol Mall for the big countdown and live performances. Honky-tonks along Broadway stay open late.
10. San Francisco, California
The fireworks along the Bay create a dramatic show, and many people line up near the Ferry Building for the best view. Otherwise, join a cruise party, like the SpeakEasy San Francisco New Year’s Eve Cruise.
If you want a countdown experience, put on your most dazzling attire and head to MOANY San Francisco, an annual event for the past 20 years, or the Fresh Start New Year’s Block Party on Marin Street.
11. Miami, Florida
The temperature is mild, and the beaches are always beautiful in Miami, Florida. New Year’s Eve parties range from the Miami Beach fireworks to VIP treatment at famous nightclubs like Liv or Story.
You can also head downtown for some family-friendly fun with live music and local food trucks. I recommend checking out Bayfront Park for a spectacular fireworks display over Biscayne Bay.
12. Honolulu, Hawaii
Celebrate the new year in paradise with a beachfront party on Waikiki Beach. The Aloha Tower Marketplace also hosts an annual New Year’s Eve party featuring live music, food trucks, and, of course, fireworks over the harbor.
For a more intimate celebration, opt for a dinner cruise complete with Hawaiian entertainment and views of the city skyline lit up for the holiday.
Allison Manning
Allison Manning is the creative mind behind Simply Stunning Content. With more than 20 years of writing experience under her belt, she is a master of creating captivating content that connects with audiences of all types. When she’s not working on new content you can find her cooking, reading, or listening to a very eclectic library of music.
When she’s not working, she prioritizes her family above everything else. Whether it’s spending quality time with her loving husband, three amazing kids, or her faithful dog, family is where she finds her joy and inspiration. She strives to make every piece of content she creates simply stunning.
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