9 Beautiful Places in the USA to Celebrate the New Year
If celebrating the New Year at home is not for you, and you want new experiences and the appropriate atmosphere, then you have probably already planned a trip to New York or Las Vegas. These cities host more themed events than other parts of America. But there are a few places that deserve your attention. So, here are 9 beautiful places in the USA that are ideal for celebrating the New Year:
1. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville hosts the annual New Year’s Eve event Bash on Broadway, which is free and features big-name musicians. This is Music City, after all! Several big bands take to the stage at the Music Note Drop, where in addition to great music, confetti is in the air and fireworks sparkle in the sky. Many of Nashville’s best bars and venues, including the famous Ryman Auditorium, host themed parties and events. MStreet, which owns several restaurants and bars in Nashville, is selling one New Year’s Eve ticket to as many as four parties!
2. Miami and Orlando, Florida
Miami has its own Ball Drop: The Big Orange! Stop by Bayfront Park around midnight to see the 35-foot neon orange rise (yes, it goes up) up the InterContinental Hotel.
A trip to Walt Disney World in Orlando for New Year’s Eve is a treat for the whole family! Raise a glass to the coming year, celebrate with loved ones over dinner, then join in on an evening of dancing and fireworks. The most popular option is dinner with the Magic Kingdom Fireworks Show from California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Other events, such as the Atlantic Dance Hall, also offer food, music, and a touch of Disney flair at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort.
3. San Francisco, California
San Francisco’s convenient location allows for unique New Year’s events, including a fireworks show over the bay. Many parties take place on board local ships, where guests are treated to a festive dinner. The city hosts several New Year’s balls, including the magnificent Black and White Ball, as well as the traditional New Year’s Ball, with live music, several DJs, and performers.
For those who want a more relaxed but no less festive atmosphere, we suggest heading to some of the highest points in the city – Twin Peaks or Embarcadero, where you will see stunning views of the city.
4. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans’ warm weather, variety of entertainment options, and friendly locals create a pleasant atmosphere. Celebrate the New Year in the historic French Quarter at Jackson Square. Throughout the night, bands and artists perform, and around midnight, it’s time for the famous “fleur de lis” and fireworks over the Mississippi River.
For those who want a little romance, New Orleans can offer you a ride on the Creole Queen – become a spectator of a bright fireworks show!
5. Atlanta, Georgia
The Peach Drop is like the Ball Drop in New York City’s Times Square, only on a smaller scale. A huge 800-pound peach falls over the downtown shopping and entertainment district at midnight. Before the event, you can try local food and drinks, and watch performances by artists, DJs, and famous musicians.
There are also other interesting events in the city, such as the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl at noon, or the Buckhead NYE Block Party and Bungalow Ball.
Read more: Best Christmas Getaways in the U.S.
6. Lake Tahoe, Nevada and California
When New Year’s Eve is approaching, don’t forget Lake Tahoe. On the south side of the lake, events take place at the Heavenly Mountain Resort. The evening features live music, performers, and ice sculptures, culminating in the Gondola Ball Drop, a version of New York City’s Ball Drop.
The north side of the lake hosts a big party with fireworks, then continues at the Olympic House. If you like the combination of beautiful nature and the city, New Year’s Eve is in Reno, Nevada. Thousands of people come here to see a big fireworks show. Many of Reno’s resorts, including the LEX and Peppermill nightclubs, offer live entertainment and parties.
7. San Antonio, Texas
The San Antonio River Walk is the center of the celebration. Several restaurants and bars along the River Walk offer special meals and packages, including prix-fixe meals.
The New Year’s Eve Celebration in Downtown San Antonio is the largest event in Texas. Starting at 5 p.m., you’ll enjoy several musical performances, rides, and tasty treats from the New Year’s Eve menu.
8. Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu is a great choice for New Year’s Eve in Hawaii, combining the urbanity of Waikiki with the tropical atmosphere of Oahu. One of the most unique things to do here is attend a traditional luau, like the Waikiki Starlight Luau at the Hilton Hawaiian Village.
A few miles down Ala Moana Boulevard, the annual Party of the Year at the Aloha Tower is a fun New Year’s Eve party with rides, food trucks, DJs, and live music. The highlight of the evening is the midnight fireworks display. Watch the fireworks from the Star of Honolulu or Dolphin Star.
Read more: Best Festivals in the US
9. Los Angeles, California
The diversity of Los Angeles residents makes the city an attractive place to celebrate the New Year – with so many events, there is a comfortable option for everyone!
The largest event is the show in Grand Park in downtown Los Angeles, with live music on several stages until 1 a.m. This evening is suitable for a family outing, as it is held without alcohol. However, if you wish, you can always look into the neighboring bars, which also organize New Year’s parties.
Another popular event in the city center is at the historic Union Station. A noisy 1920s-style event with dancers, DJs, live jazz music, and an open bar. About 40 kilometers from the center, in Long Beach, the Queen Mary hosts a themed party with animators and live musicians.