New York New Year's Eve Destinations

Crowds descend on New York's Times Square, but if you'd rather not join the throng and wait for the ball to drop, check out VIP hotel packages which include dinner, dancing, champagne, and a viewing platform.

Every year, there's a huge party on the Canadian side of the Falls at Queen Victoria Park, with live music, food stalls, and a great view of the fireworks over the Niagara River. Hotels on either side of the border offer special New Year's packages, so why not spend a few days in the area, and make a trip of it?

This upstate city adjacent to the Falls offers its own New Year's Eve event, the Buffalo Ball Drop. Take in the spectacular show including lasers, live music, and of course, fireworks choreographed to popular music.

One of the best family events in the city is at the Children's Museum of Manhattan, where a ball drop is held at child-friendly midday, rather than midnight. Coney Island's boardwalk party is also a city classic, with traditional fairground rides, live music, and fireworks at midnight.

Let the kids call the shots with a trip to Hershey's Chocolate World or Fallsview Waterpark, where there are three acres of indoor watery fun for kids – and adults – of all ages.

Families who want a relaxed, cozy New Year's Eve in New York will find everything they're looking for in Orange County, located in the lovely Hudson Valley. One of the best parties in the area is at the Castle Fun Center, where the fun kicks off early and ends at 9pm, allowing parents to get the kids tucked into bed before the real celebrations start.

One great New York City experience on December 31st is the rooftop bar at the Public Hotel. Enjoy the views from the warmth of the indoors, with ample food and drink and champagne to toast the New Year at midnight. In general, hotel rooftop parties are an exclusive and glamorous, if pricey, way to celebrate the holiday — be sure to book in advance.

The best views in Niagara are undoubtedly from the Skylon Tower, so reserve a table for a dinner to remember. As the restaurant slowly revolves, you can enjoy the ever-changing view in absolute comfort.

This tony upstate town does posh well. Plan a vacation here over New Year's Eve to enjoy fireworks, live music, and various events at the town-sponsored First Night festivities.