I’m going to divide this article into 3 different sections because there are so many different ways to ring in the New Year. Some of us want to stand for 12 hours in the cold to literally watch the ball drop (I’ve done it) while others want to be as far away from the madness of Times Square (but still watch it on TV) and then we have the fancy rooftop bars where you can be away from the crowds, but still (literally) watch the ball drop. Whatever you want for your New Year’s Eve in New York City, we’ve got it. Also, if you’re the person that just wants to stay in your cozy apartment and order Chinese food and watch movies…I’ve got that covered too.

Times Square Madness

The thing about doing this is that if you’re going to stand for 12 hours to see the performers, Ryan Seacrest and the ball drop then you’ve got to be prepared. This is not a situation you should take lightly because it is insane. The amount of people that surround the ball, along with the outskirts of Times Square will blow your mind. I would know because I was one of them.

Tips:

• Snacks: Granola bars, candy, goldfish, whatever. You need food waiting that long.

• The gear: You need to buy some 2014 stuff. Face it, you’re already a freak who waited this long to see a ball drop. Add some sunglasses that are shaped into 2014 to it.

• Pee before: You cannot pee. Unless you’re really good at making friends with the security guards. Sometimes they’ll let you out, but you might have to walk a bit and get through the crowd (and you might not get back in).

• Dress warm: This is self-explanatory. Maybe bring a blanket.

• Stay hydrated.

• Don’t bring a big bag. They won’t let you in with that. Make sure everything is pocket sized.

Far Away in a Really Cool Bar

All bars should be showing the ball drop. If they’re not, make them change the channel because New Year’s Eve is one of the best holidays. Maybe it’s not yours, but it’s mine and watching the ball drop has always been my favorite thing. I totally understand not wanting to be in the crazy that is times square so here are some bars that are super fun and warm and show the ball dropping. Plus, some even have good drink specials.

• Wicked Willy’s - a pirate themed bar with lots of TV’s to watch the ball drop. Additional pluses: beer pong, drink specials, a dance floor and live music.

• TAO Uptown - It’s going to cost (a minimum) $135 to get into this club, but it’s pretty sultry and swanky and kind of great. There will be a premium open bar, a DJ and a glass of champagne at midnight.

• Cellar Bar - All glitzy, glamorous and sparkly at the Cellar Bar. It’s $115 (minimum), but you got that open bar, midnight champagne, and a DJ. It won’t be as crazy as TAO, but will still have that dance club kind of vibe mixed with the relaxed bar type attitude.

On a Rooftop

My rooftop crowd. Or my people that want to see the ball drop, but just inside and without the crowd. Here’s the thing, it’s so expensive to do this. I’m pretty sure you needed to book this in the summer, but I’m going to give you some good places. If you’re really persuasive or know someone who know someone…try these lounges, hotels and bars.

• R Lounge at the Renaissance Hotel - You can drink and eat and dance the night away at the R Lounge. You’ll get a spectacular view of the ball drop at this classy hotel. Pretty much Ace.

• AMC Times Square - A huge party in the movie theaters. There’s dancing and DJ’s and open bars. Plus, you get to watch the ball drop. Literally watch it drop. Live. In person. No crowds. It’s pretty pricey, around $1,150.

• XVI Lounge- You aren’t going to get a view of the ball dropping live, but there is the 360 degree view of the city that might persuade you to come here. At $115 (minimum) you get a premium open bar, midnight champagne and a DJ. It’s more relaxed then AMC Times Square will be.

Good luck to whatever section you fall into! I hope your New Year’s Eve (and the New Year) is spectacular. Make sure to watch that ball drop into 2014!

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