New York City is one of the best places to travel in December, and not just because of Christmas. There are tons of things to do in NYC for New Year’s Eve. There’s the ball that will be dropping—find our advice on where to watch it here. But Times Square, which is best avoided year-round, is especially treacherous terrain on New Year’s Eve. The Ball Drop is visually splendid, sure, but its several seconds’ drop doesn’t lose its luster when watched on television from any number of more fabulous, comfortable parties happening around the city. Hotels are common hosts, with fabulous lounges and bars ready-made for a soirée. Exhilarating options also include a city cruise and a run through Central Park that gets going right when the clock strikes midnight. All of this to say, ringing in 2025 in the city can be done more ways than one. Read on to find the best New Year’s Eve parties in New York City.

Bar Blondeau at the Wythe

When: December 31, 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
Where: The Wythe, 80 Wythe Avenue
Price: Starting at $295 per person
How to book: Tickets available online

Six floors above Williamsburg’s beloved French joint Le Crocodile (which is itself offering a four-course New Year’s Eve pre-fixe feast priced at $163 per person that would pair conveniently well with the party upstairs) sits the chic-as-hell Bar Blondeau with its blond wood panelling and deep green upholstery. The $295 ticket, which includes gratuity, will get you an open bar, champagne station, raw bar with oysters and prawns, and all-you-can-grab access to passed hors d’oeuvres like au poivre sliders and fried chicken with caviar. With a live DJ and superb views of Manhattan, the Wythe has one of the best vantage points to ring in 2025.

City Cruises’s New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise

When: December 31, 10:00 pm to 1:00 am (boarding time 9:00 pm)
Where: Pier 61, Chelsea Piers
Price: $630 for Silver Ticket, $730 for Gold Ticket, $800 for Platinum Ticket
How to book: Tickets available online

The glittering city skyline and a spectacular fireworks display (weather permitting) will be your backdrop on this three-hour cruise along the East and Hudson Rivers. Settle into the Bateaux, a class-enclosed boat, to enjoy a three-course dinner, an open bar, and a live band—plus those aforementioned views. Upgrade to a Gold ticket to get Champagne service and a keepsake flute, or a Platinum ticket for Champagne and an enviable window table. Tickets can be booked on City Experiences’s website.