20+ Best New Year’s Eve Parties in nYC (Times Square & More)
Let’s be real, the second Halloween is over, every group chat is hit with the same question: “So… what are we doing for New Year’s?” If you’re trying to figure out the best New Year’s Eve Parties in nYC , the options are overwhelming, running from a chill night at a dive bar to dropping a month’s rent on a gala. We did the hard work for you and sorted through the noise to find the spots that are actually worth it.
Just a heads-up: This is NYC, so details, prices, and performers can change faster than the L train schedule. Always check the official links for the latest info before you lock in your plans.
Times Square Views to Brooklyn Raves: Your NYC NYE Party Guide (2026)
21 Best NYE Parties NYC Has to Offer for 2025-2026
The Times Square Ball Drop
Look, we have to start here. This is the location everyone knows, the one your cousins from Ohio ask about. So, is it worth going to Times Square for New Year’s Eve? As locals, most of us would say… nah. It’s an all-day commitment standing in a pen, it’s cold, and there are zero bathrooms. But if it’s on your bucket list, you gotta do it once. It’s one of the only truly free NYE events in NYC, but it’ll cost you your time and sanity.
- Price: FREE
- Location: Times Square
- Pro Tip: If you’re deadass going, get there before 3 PM, pack snacks (and an adult diaper, we’re not kidding), and don’t expect to leave your spot.
New York Marriott Marquis
If you do want to see the ball drop but have zero interest in standing in the cold, this is how you do it. The Marriott has a massive party with some of the best direct views of the ball drop. It’s a serious splurge, but it’s one of those NYC New Year’s Eve hotel packages 2025 that people dream about.
- Price: $$$$
- Location: 1535 Broadway, New York
- Contact: https://www.marriott.com
- Pro Tip: People book these a year out. Seriously, be on the lookout for New York New Years Eve 2026 packages as soon as January hits.
R Lounge at the Renaissance New York Times Square
Another one of the best places to watch the ball drop in NYC without freezing. R Lounge has these massive panoramic windows that look right over the heart of Times Square. It’s an upscale party with an open bar, food, and, most importantly, a front-row seat in the warmth.
- Price: $$$$
- Location: 714 7th Ave, New York
- Contact: https://www.instagram.com/RenTimesSquare
- Pro Tip: Make sure your ticket explicitly states “Ball Drop View,” as different packages have different access levels.
Bar 54 at Hyatt Centric Times Square
Want that ball drop view from even higher up? This is your spot. As one of the city’s highest rooftop lounges, this is the definition of a New York New Year’s Eve rooftop party with a direct, if slightly angled, view of the action. It’s pricey, but the pictures will be unbeatable.
- Price: $$$$
- Location: 135 W 45th St, New York
- Contact: https://www.hyatt.com
- Pro Tip: This is an indoor/outdoor space, so you can still step out for that “I’m on a rooftop in Times Square” moment.
M Social Hotel Times Square
This hotel party has become a huge hit. It offers a massive terrace with incredible views of the ball drop, premium open bar, and a very “bougie” vibe. It’s another one of the top-tier NYC New Year’s Eve Hotel packages 2025 for those who want to be at the party, not just near it.
- Price: $$$$
- Location: 226 W 52nd St, New York
- Contact: https://www.msocial.com/en/new-york/m-social-new-york
- Pro Tip: This is a popular spot for the influencer crowd, so dress the part.
Planet Hollywood
If the hotel galas are too stuffy (or expensive) but you still want to be in the Times Square “zone,” Planet Hollywood is a classic. It’s a more casual, family-friendly (ish) party with a DJ, buffet, and open bar. You’re in the middle of the action and can sometimes get access to view the ball drop outside.
- Price: $$$
- Location: 1540 Broadway, New York
- Contact: https://planethollywood.com
- Pro Tip: This is a good option if you have a mixed-age group that wants the Times Square energy without the black-tie price.
Dallas BBQ
Yes, you read that right. Dallas BBQ. This is the most unhinged, and honestly, most fun, way to do Times Square. It’s cheaper, you get giant frozen drinks, sticky ribs, and you’re right on 42nd Street. Don’t knock it ’til you try it.
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: American / BBQ
- Location: 241 W 42nd St, New York
- Contact: https://www.dallasbbq.com
- Pro Tip: Zero pretense. Just vibes. And sticky tables.
Gotham Hall
If you want to feel like you’re in Gossip Girl or a Batman movie, this is the party for you. This former bank is a massive, stunning ballroom. This is a true NYC New Year’s Eve Gala with a black-tie dress code, premium open bar, and a full-on orchestra or top-tier DJ.
- Price: $$$$
- Location: 1356 Broadway, New York
- Contact: https://gothamhallevents.com | +1 212-244-4300 | mail@gothamhallevents.com
- Pro Tip: They are very serious about the dress code. Don’t be the one who shows up in sneakers.
Guastavino’s
Another iconic NYC New Year’s Eve Gala spot, located under the 59th Street Bridge. The entire space is covered in stunning tiled arches. It’s an upscale, black-tie optional event with multiple food stations, open bars, and a crowd that’s ready to spend.
- Price: $$$$
- Location: 409 E 59th St, New York
- Contact: https://guastavinos.com | +1 212-980-2711 | info@guastavinos.com
- Pro Tip: It’s a bit removed from the craziness of Midtown, which is a major plus for getting a cab or Uber home.
Acadia NYC
For the theater kids (and those who love them), this party combines a high-end dinner with live cabaret performances from actual Broadway cast members. It’s an elegant, seated event that feels more like a sophisticated show than a sweaty nightclub.
- Price: $$$$
- Cuisine: New American
- Location: 101 W 57th St, New York
- Contact: https://www.acadianyc.com | +1 212-377-7170
- Pro Tip: This is a great choice for a fancy date night or for celebrating with parents who want a more refined experience.
PHD Terrace at Dream Midtown
A very scene-y, chic rooftop party spot. It’s got two floors (one enclosed, one outdoor terrace) and attracts a fashionable crowd. Great music, great cocktails, and a solid view of the Midtown skyline.
- Price: $$$
- Location: 210 W 55th St, New York
- Contact: https://www.phdterrace.com | +1 646-905-3660
- Pro Tip: The line can get long, even with tickets. Don’t roll up at 11:45 PM and expect to get in for the countdown.
230 Fifth Rooftop
This is probably the most famous rooftop bar in the city, mostly because of that dead-center view of the Empire State Building. Their NYE party is massive, with multiple rooms, DJs, and those famous heated igloos. It’s a classic New York New Year’s Eve rooftop party experience.
- Price: $$$
- Location: 230 5th Ave, New York
- Contact: https://www.230-fifth.com | +1 212-725-4300 | info@230-fifth.com
- Pro Tip: The igloos are first-come, first-served, even with a ticket. Get there early if you’re set on getting one.
Magic Hour Rooftop at Moxy Times Square
If you’re looking for an instagrammable party, this is it. Magic Hour is known for its over-the-top decor (like a mini-golf course) and carousel. It’s a fun, playful vibe with great views of the Empire State Building.
- Price: $$$
- Location: 485 7th Ave, New York
- Contact: https://www.moxytimessquare.com | (212) 967-6699
- Pro Tip: This is in the Times Square “zone,” so plan your travel accordingly. You’ll likely have to walk the last few blocks.
The Sentry Flatiron
A newer, sleeker penthouse rooftop with a cozy, lodge-like feel. It’s less of a massive rave and more of a chic cocktail party. It’s a great option if you want rooftop vibes without the Midtown chaos.
- Price: $$$
- Location: 37 W 24th St 18th Floor, New York
- Contact: https://www.thesentrynyc.com
- Pro Tip: Good for a more intimate celebration with a small group of friends.
Gimme Gimme Disco at Irving Plaza
If you just want to dance, this is your move. Irving Plaza hosts this traveling disco party, and it’s all ABBA, Donna Summer, and Bee Gees. It’s one of the most fun NYC New Year’s Eve concerts or parties because it’s zero pretense, just pure retro fun.
- Price: $$
- Location: 17 Irving Pl, New York
- Contact: https://www.irvingplaza.com | +1 212-777-6800 | info@irvingplaza.com
- Pro Tip: Wear something sparkly. You’ll fit right in.
The Cityfox New Year’s Eve at Avant Gardner
For the serious party people. This is it. This is one of the best NYE parties NYC offers, period. Cityfox takes over the entire Avant Gardner complex in Brooklyn for a 24-hour+ marathon of house and techno with multiple stages, massive production, and a crowd that is there to dance.
- Price: $$$
- Location: 140 Stewart Ave, Brooklyn
- Contact: https://www.avant-gardner.com | +1 347-987-3146 | relations@avant-gardner.com
- Pro Tip: This is not a “pop in for the countdown” party. This is a commitment. Wear comfortable shoes.
NYRR Midnight Run in Central Park
Want to start your resolution at 12:01 AM? This is for you. It’s a four-mile run around Central Park that kicks off with fireworks at the stroke of midnight. The vibe is incredibly festive and uniquely New York.
- Price: $$ (to register)
- Location: Central Park
- Contact: https://www.nyrr.org
- Pro Tip: Even if you’re not running, you can go to the entrance of the park near Bethesda Terrace to watch the fireworks for free.
NYE Fireworks Yacht Cruise
Want to see the fireworks over the Statue of Liberty? This is the move. Multiple companies (like Hornblower and Classic Harbor Line) offer New York New Year’s Eve 2025 packages on boats. They almost all include an open bar, food, a DJ, and the best view of the harbor fireworks.
- Price: $$$
- Location: Various piers (, Pier 15, Chelsea Piers)
- Contact: https://www.instagram.com/chelseapiersnyc
- Pro Tip: It’s cold on the water. Even if the boat is heated, you’ll want a warm coat for the outdoor decks.
Elsewhere NYE
Another Brooklyn staple for those who know. Elsewhere is a multi-room, multi-genre venue that always throws a massive party with a perfectly curated lineup of DJs and live acts. It’s for the music heads.
- Price: $$
- Location: 599 Johnson Ave, Brooklyn
- Contact: https://www.elsewherebrooklyn.com | +1 980-938-0958
- Pro Tip: They often have an early-evening “mellow” party in the rooftop tent before the main rave kicks off in the hall.
Prospect Park Light Show
This is Brooklyn’s answer to Times Square and, honestly, it’s way better. It’s a massive, free party at Grand Army plaza with live music and, more recently, a spectacular light and drone show instead of traditional fireworks. It’s one of the best free NYE events and perfect for families or anyone who wants to avoid Manhattan.
- Price: FREE
- Location: Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn
- Contact: https://www.prospectpark.org
- Pro Tip: Get there by 10:30 PM for a good spot. It gets crowded, but the vibe is all love.
Marquee New York
If you’re looking for that big-room, bottle-service, “Vegas in NYC” vibe, Marquee is your spot. They always book a massive, mainstream EDM or house DJ (like Oliver Heldens last year) and it is a full-on production with confetti, dancers, and a very dressed-up crowd.
- Price: $$$$
- Location: 289 10th Ave, New York
- Contact: https://www.marqueeny.com | +1 646-473-0202
- Pro Tip: This is a “buy a table or don’t go” kind of place for NYE. The general admission floor will be packed.
Looking for a Pre-Party Spot?
After you’ve made your NYE plans, you’ll probably be looking for a sophisticated spot to grab a drink earlier in the night or even on a different, less chaotic evening. If you want to get into that fancy spirit, you should definitely check out our guide to the 15+ Best Hotel Cocktail Bars In NYC For A Fancy Night Out for all the details on where to find the city’s classiest drinks.
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