New York on New Years Eve?

Question

My boyfriend and I are travelling from Europe for NYE. We'll be staying close to Times Square and would like to feel the vibe but not the crushing crowds. Any thoughts on a great restaurant, with a view but not $$$$$$? Thanks!

Answer 1

Yeah right! You'll have to enjoy the view from your television if you want to avoid a crowd. If you are okay with skipping Times Square, there is also a celebration in Central Park which is less crowded and they have fireworks. More locals go there because we think it's stupid to freeze our asses off crushed between a bunch of drunk tourists. But... if you are only in NY for New Years once, you might want to experience the authentic Times Square. I really don't know what you're looking for, but basically, Times Square will be crowded from noon that day onwards. There are no restaurants or bars in the area that won't be TOTALLY packed and you definitely have to book that stuff WELL in advance. They usually require an all night fee, of all you can drink sort of thing, it may be expensive as well.

Have fun!

Answer 2

I actually went to NYC this past New Year's Eve and the crowd's were CRAZY. The people show up early that morning to wait on the sidewalks (no matter how cold it is) for a good view. There are restaurants, but you will never be able to get into them to eat unless you FIGHT your way through the crowd and even then, you will not get a seat. The police also block off the surrounding 3-5 blocks of traffic, so you will have to walk from your cab.
Don't get me wrong, the place is wonderfull, but you must be motivated to get a good "seat". I was with my boyfriend who grew up in New York City (Queens) over the past 40 years and he did not even want to go into the city that night. Says there is more risk to get robbed/mugged during that time.

I don't want to put a bitter taste in your mouth. The city is beautiful, but I would suggest to go during other times. You will pay more for a hotel during that time. I have been several times and I love it, but I won't go back for NYE.

Answer 3

It gets REALLY busy that time of the year and a lot of the restaurants will be booked up and those that are close will be expensive.

If you can stretch to it, try and get a hotel actually in Times Square as you will get a pass in to the "pens" that they have there so you wont have to queue and you can strole out your hotel straight in to all the action.

Its normally pretty well organised so you wont get crushed.

I would suggest trying to book a table in the Rennaisance. It's a 5 star hotel but has a fantastic view over Times Square. Be quick though as it's popular. I don't know about costs though - it maybe cheaper than you think.

Hope that helps.

Answer 4

The only way to get the full view would be to book a hotel room overlooking Times Square.

Years ago it was one big mob but now they separate people behind baracaids. Ususally the City has events and Grand Central Station and other places. Suggest you contact the NYC visitors bureau

Answer 5

Hi, done Times Square last NYE.

Really really busy, dont think you'll get many places with a view of it, many places seemed to be advanced tickets etc & a lot is closed cos access is limited.

Great gig though, dont miss it, enjoy!!

Answer 6

I think you are nuts - New Years is insane in Times Square and it is very very cold in NY in January. They put everyone behind barricades and you just stand around freezing mostly.
But if you want to and you dress very warmly, why not? It will be a fun story to tell.

Answer 7

if you get bored with the times square thing, this great pearl jam tribute band called evenflow is playing at the lion's den in the village. i saw them earlier this year and they were awesome. that is where i will be. can't do the crowds, but you will have fun, no matter what.

Answer 8

Good luck, People book far in advance.

Answer 9

check out this site for cheap lodging
www.vrbo.com