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

There’s no place quite like New Jersey, with a landscape that has inspired adventure, art, music, and culinary delights throughout its history. You can enjoy all the best Jersey culture this New Year’s Eve without having to go far from home. Here are some ideas if you’d like to experience an easy-going welcome for the new year.

Experience some of the nostalgia of youth spent in bowling alleys and arcades. At Bowlero you’ll find ropes courses, laser tag, games, food, and, of course, bowling. Special party packages are available to groups for New Year’s Eve. Choose from a Family Party Package for earlier in the evening or a Ball Drop Package to see the new year in. Each package includes bowling time and shoe rental, a kid-friendly buffet, unlimited soft drinks, party favors, and a sparkling cider or champagne toast. Find a location on Bowlero’s website.

When: Dec 31, 10:30am – 1am

Where: multiple locations

This fun location has something for the entire family. Get a pass to enjoy rides and games all evening, and there won’t be a dull moment. The New Year’s Eve party will also feature party favors, light shows, a live DJ, prizes, and giveaways. You can get a great view of the ball from one of the 5 large screens and monitors, and you won’t want to miss the confetti cannons that launch to ring in the new year. Grab a dining pass to enjoy a special buffet and a champagne toast. You can even book a VIP suite for a private room for your guests or family. This party sells out fast, so you’ll want to be sure to purchase tickets early.

When: Dec 31, 6pm – midnight

Where: 110 Schanck Road, Freehold

Board the battleship for an evening of concessions, bar service, and music. At the conclusion of each party, you’ll have a fantastic view of the fireworks show over the harbor. Tickets are just $10 for these events. Proceeds go toward the restoration and maintenance of the battleship.

When: Dec 31, 4pm – 6pm, and 10pm – midnight

Where: 100 Clinton St, Camden

Enjoy a luxurious Gatsby New Year’s Eve Party featuring a cocktail reception, a 3-course dinner, and music throughout the evening. On New Year’s Day, visit the all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet, then stop by the gift shop to pick out some wines to take home. There will be tastings on the hour from 11am to 5pm on New Year’s Eve and at noon and 1pm on New Year’s Day. Get your tickets in advance to make sure you don’t miss any of the fun.

When: Dec 31 – Jan 1

Where: 72 N Bremen Ave, Egg Harbor City

Skip the holiday traffic and get your favorite foods delivered right to your home. Whether you need to feed a party or just want a quiet evening in your living room to watch the ball drop on TV, Uber Eats has options that will fit your needs. Visit the website to find out if Uber Eats is available in your town.

When: anytime

Where: home

One benefit of living in a small state like New Jersey is being able to visit all kinds of new places in just a short drive, or—even better—letting the celebration come to you. With great food, drinks, friends, and family just a quick trip away, you might even find yourself meeting some of your resolutions early this year.