New York
Some could argue this is the granddaddy of them all – and with good reason. As mentioned before, New Year’s Eve celebrations in Manhattan are beamed all over the world, making it a traditional favorite for more than just those who live in the United States. Whether or not you choose to pile into Times Square, you can be certain there are plenty of places to partake in the revelry. Even the Empire State Building gets on the act, offering visitors the perfect view of pyrotechnic displays from all five boroughs.
New Orleans
If you’ve ever seen the infamous Mardi Gras festivities, you know what to expect in this party central of the American South. Spend the day walking up and down the French Quarter, eating all the Cajun food you can handle. Then, as night falls, make your way over to the banks of the Mississippi River for a spectacular fireworks show. The dark sky is brightened dramatically as colors explode over the city.
Orlando
The east coast home of Mickey Mouse and all his friends has far more to offer than just kid-centric entertainment. Each of the theme parks (Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and Sea World) has a celebration of their own featuring a huge fireworks display, but those looking for something geared for adults will find plenty, as well. There are rock concerts and live hip hop shows, plus a few seats at ICEBAR, a watering hole in which the furniture is carved from blocks of ice.
Las Vegas
With a name like Sin City, it’s easy to guess what draws people to this glittering city in the middle of the Nevada desert. Grab an inexpensive room on The Strip and wander Las Vegas Boulevard to take in the offerings of each casino. From the typical entertainment – the volcano at The Mirage or the Bellagio’s water show – to the over-the-top features added for the special occasion, your eyes will feast on the options available (and, for your stomach, an inexpensive steak and eggs buffet, too).
Los Angeles
If it were possible, you would want to fly cross-country to take in the very different celebrations between the Big Apple and the United States’ western capital of star power. In this sprawling metropolis, you will find live music and entertainment are the most sought-after features of New Year’s Eve. Thanks to the wide number of excellent local bands trying to “make it” and the City of Angels’ tendency to attempt to do everything bigger and better than the rest, chances are good you will end up witnessing quite a show at midnight – and beyond. | 