Ringing in a laid-back New Year’s Eve

Does getting dressed up and going out on the town for New Year’s Eve make you want to climb back into bed? Don’t worry, there are options for you to ring in a chill new year. We put together a list of laid-back options in some of our busiest cities around the US. Whether you want to have a night in or a low key night out, we’ve got you covered. 

Let the ghosts, and maybe a couple of spirits (or beers), usher you into 2018 with a spooky tour of New York’s famous taverns. Your guide introduces you to the haunts of Edgar Allan Poe, Harry Houdini, and Jonathan Swift, among other historic luminaries of the city’s drinking scene. The 2-hour tour around the East Village offers an entertaining wander through the history, myths, and tall tales of haunted New York. Participants do not have to drink, but they must be over 21.

When: Check site for availability
Where: Lion sculpture in front of St. Mark’s in the Bowery, corner of 10th St and 2nd Ave

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

Another family-friendly location for NYE, Brookfield Zoo does it right every single year. Take the kids, look at the animals—those that aren’t asleep by sundown, anyway—and enjoy the numerous activities available for visitors of all ages.Make sure you arrive early to see the animals and catch the countdown for kids at 8pm.

Where: 8400 W 31st St, Brookfield

A party just for the kiddos, the World’s Smallest NYE Party at the Ritz-Carlton offers scads of activities for the whippersnappers, including games, crafts, movies, a kid’s buffet, and more. Alternatively, you can leave the kids at home and enjoy the Midnight in Paris New Year’s Eve Gala in the grand ballroom, featuring dinner, live music and dancing, and a champagne toast at midnight. Book a room for the night, and you don’t have to worry about driving anywhere after the shindig. The next morning, head downstairs to the New Year’s Day Recovery Breakfast Buffet to refuel for 2018.

When: Dec 31, 6pm – 1am

Where: 455 Grand Bay Dr, Key Biscayne

The perfect New Year’s Eve chill-out destination, the Garden is a winter wonderland option for a bracing stroll to dispel any holiday hangovers. The crisp air, evergreens, and exhibits make it ideal for a family outing over the holiday period.   For a little December warmth, check out the Mediterranean Room. The National Garden and Conservatory are open from 10am to- 5pm daily, including all holidays, so it’s a great place to see off 2017 or welcome 2018.

When: 10am– 5pm

Where: 100 Maryland Ave, SW, Washington, DC

Don’t see your city? Check out the other chill NYE guides we put together. 

Have a fun (and safe) New Year’s Eve and enjoy ringing in 2018!