The ball drop is the most popular event on New Year's Eve in NYC. Nearly one million people flock to Times Square to be a part of the crowd, feel the rush of a new beginning—and maybe even get on TV. While no list of events on New Year’s Eve in NYC is complete without this classic celebration, there are plenty of other ways to ring in the new year in New York.
The Concorde Hotel New York knows how to celebrate New Year’s Eve in NYC.
1. Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve
This NYC tradition started back in 1972. Now hosted by Ryan Seacrest, DCNYRE features musical entertainment leading up to the ball drop in Times Square. Pros recommend arriving in NYC the night before and getting a good night’s sleep, so you’re prepared to stand outside all afternoon on December 31 st. ( The Concorde Hotel New York is about ten minutes from Times Square.) You’ll want to arrive around 3:00 pm to guarantee a good spot, and the party lasts well past midnight.
2. New Year’s Eve Cruise
There are several companies offering cruises on New Year's Eve. One that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser is Gatsby’s Firework Yacht Party . This 21+ cruise features a band, DJ, open bar, and midnight fireworks. This is a fun opportunity to “party like Jay Gatsby.” Circle Line also offers a 21+ fireworks cruise, which leaves from Pier 83. This cruise is just a 15-minute taxi ride from The Concorde Hotel New York.
3. Central Park Fireworks and Midnight Run
View the fireworks at Central Park and get a head start on your New Year’s resolution to work towards a healthier lifestyle. Every December 31st, the New York Road Runners hosts a 4-mile run to kick off the new year. If you’re a NYRR member, this can earn you entry to the 2023 New York City Marathon . Whether you run or watch, you can enjoy music and dancing before the race and ring in the new year with an energetic crowd. This event is just 7 minutes from The Concorde Hotel New York.
4. Ball Drop Party
As you can imagine, the city is flooded with ball drop parties on New Year’s Eve in NYC. One of our favorite viewing parties is at AMC 42nd Street (just 15 minutes from The Concorde Hotel New York). They go all out with dinner, an open bar, a live DJ, a champagne toast at midnight, and movies playing all night. Gold and Platinum ticketholders can watch the ball drop live in person from the 5 th and 6 th -floor terraces. Although children are allowed at the AMC ball drop party, we recommend Madame Tussauds for a more family-friendly vibe. Located half a block from the Times Square ball drop (and 12 minutes from the Concorde Hotel New York), ticketholders can enjoy music from a DJ, access to the 4D cinema, dinner, an open bar, and of course, all kinds of wax celebrities. They, too, have a VIP viewing gallery that offers a view of the famous ball drop.
5. Comedy Club
Celebrating at a comedy club on New Year’s Eve in NYC is a fun and unique way to ring in 2023. Reserve a seat at The Comedy Cellar and laugh with the crowd to comedians who may just be the next big thing in comedy. After all, this place has played host to greats like Ray Romano, Louis C.K., and Dave Chapelle. Located just 16 minutes from The Concorde Hotel New York, if this year is anything like last year , you’re sure to have a great time. Stand Up NY , which has featured comedians such as Jerry Seinfeld, Chris Rock, and Amy Schumer, also has a fantastic New Year’s Eve event planned. Go to the 8:30 pm show for a little laughter before you ring in the new year, or laugh while you ring in the new year by paying just $30 more for the 10:30 pm show (this one includes an open bar!). Stand Up NY is a 12-minute taxi ride from The Concorde Hotel New York.
6. Bryant Park Grill
Located a short distance from the ball drop (and less than ten minutes from The Concorde Hotel New York), The Bryant Park Grill never disappoints. Known for exquisite hors d’oeuvres, an open bar, a DJ, and an air of elegance, the Bryant Park Grill offers an excellent alternative to standing out in the cold this New Year’s Eve.
You’re sure to enjoy this New Year's Eve in NYC!
You can always choose to stay in on New Year’s Eve, snuggled up with someone you love in one of our welcoming suites. Watch the ball drop on your flatscreen TV and go down to Café Bonsaii for wine and tapas. After all, that’s the beauty of New York: If you want to go out, there is always something to do. If you’d rather stay in, there’s a home away from home waiting for you at The Concorde Hotel New York. Book your stay at our boutique hotel today.