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.
New York City
Phantom Pub Crawl
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
Los Angeles
Midnight Soiree at the Lincoln Speakeasy
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
Chicago
Zoo Year’s Eve at Brookfield Zoo
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
Miami
World’s Smallest NYE Party at the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne
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
Washington DC
US Botanic Garden
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.
Atlanta's NYE guideAustin's NYE guideBoston's NYE guideChicago's NYE guideDallas' NYE guideWashington DC's NYE guideDenver's NYE guideHouston's NYE guideLas Vegas' NYE guideLos Angeles' NYE guideMiami's NYE guideMontreal's NYE guideNashville's NYE guideNew Jersey's NYE guideNew York City's NYE guideOrange County's NYE guideOrlando's NYE guideOttawa's NYE guidePhiladelphia's NYE guidePhoenix's NYE guidePortland's NYE guideSan Diego's NYE guideSeattle's NYE guideToronto's NYE guideHave a fun (and safe) New Year’s Eve and enjoy ringing in 2018!
Uber
