How to have a low-key New Year’s Eve in Los Angeles

If battling the crowds at a club or pub is not on the top of your list of fun ways to spend New Year’s Eve, you’re in luck. Los Angeles has plenty of choices for revelers looking for something off the beaten path. Sure, there will be tons of glitzy events going down in the City of Angels this December 31, but there are also lots of options if you’re looking for something a little more low-key.

If you’re looking for something unexpected this New Year’s Eve, consider the Midnight Soiree at the Lincoln Speakeasy. This Westside establishment is a modern-day speakeasy, complete with secret passageway and password. Normally, admittance to this upscale social club is invitation-only, but this New Year’s Eve, you can get in the door with the purchase of a ticket that supports several ocean conservation charities. The night will include a silent auction, live music, and dance performances. Guests are encouraged to stick to the theme by dressing in 1920s attire. Early-bird tickets are $55 each and include a midnight champagne toast.

When: Dec 31, 9:30pm – 1:30am

Where: 8639 Lincoln Blvd

Ring in the new year with a night of music when the Main Squeeze takes over the Mint. The Main Squeeze has shared a stage with the Roots, Aloe Blacc, and Trombone Shorty, playing a blend of soul, funk, and hip-hop that, according to Billboard, “dare[s] you not to two-step.” Tickets to the show are $35 in advance or $50 on the 31st. For an additional $75, you can get the VIP package, which includes food, an open bar, and a roped-off section near the stage. Getting the whole gang together? VIP booths with seating for 4 to 10 people are available for $250 – $350 plus tickets to the show.

When: 8pm

Where: 6010 W Pico Blvd

Not interested in cover charges and long lines at the bar? Stay home, and bring the celebration to your doorstep with Uber Eats. Invite as many of your friends and family as your couch can comfortably hold, and settle in to watch the ball drop. Whether you want McDonald’s, sushi, or Thai, it’s all just a tap away, thanks to Uber Eats’ tireless delivery partners.

When: anytime

Where: home

Welcome 2018 in style with a leisurely meal at one of LA’s best steakhouses. Nick & Stef’s is an elegant and modern chophouse with a world-class wine list in the heart of downtown. The menu delivers all the favorites you expect from a classic steakhouse, like USDA prime, dry-aged rib-eye, a half-rack of Colorado lamb, and seafood options like pan-seared diver scallops. On New Year’s Eve, they’ll be offering a surf-and-turf special for $68. Stay until midnight to enjoy the complimentary champagne toast.

When: Seating from 5 – 10pm

Where: 330 S Hope St

If you want to get a jump-start on your New Year’s resolutions by going to bed at a reasonable hour on the last day of the year, ditch the late-night celebrations for an afternoon basketball game. The Clippers will take on the Charlotte Hornets at the Staples Center at 4pm, giving you plenty of time to get home for a sensible dinner and a solid 8 hours. Tickets start at just $10, making it easy to stick to those new budgeting goals, too! If you want to splash out and make an evening of it, there are plenty of VIP options available, including event suites that can accommodate up to 108 people.

When: 4pm

Where: 1111 S Figueroa St

Whether you decide to welcome 2018 at a speakeasy dressed like a Great Gatsby extra or on your sofa in your sweatpants, Los Angeles offers plenty of options for greeting the new year, so you can be sure to do it in exactly the way you desire.