The Big Apple has always been considered the Big Kahuna in terms of NYE hotspots, but there are plenty of other options for party animals that want to avoid the madness of Times Square.
1. New Orleans, LA
Mardi Gras isn’t the only time of year that this party town gets down. Find a spot along the Mississippi River to catch the impressive twin barge fireworks display before heading to Bourbon Street to ring in the new year with one of the city’s famous Hurricane cocktails, and maybe even some karaoke if you’re feeling brave.
2. Nashville, TN
Head to Music City, USA to kick off 2015 in a truly rockin’ way. All of the “honky-tonk” bars along Broadway — the main drag — come alive on the last night of each year. Plus, the recent popularity of ABC show Nashville has launched the city into the national spotlight. This year, there’s even a network TV special featuring some of the hottest stars in music, like Lady Antebellum and Gavin DeGraw.
3. Miami, FL
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Warm weather, waves, and a wild nightlife scene? You’ll find it all here. Grab dinner at one of the many incredible South Beach restaurants, and club-hop along Ocean Drive into the wee hours of the morning. If you select this spicy city for your year-end festivities, though, be prepared to pay up: unlike the dress code at most establishments around here, cover charges are anything but skimpy!
4. Austin, TX
Arguably the hippest city in Texas, Austin promises a fun and funky New Year’s Eve celebration. The city’s Butler Park hosts the family-friendly Austin’s New Year event, which features live music, cultural presentations, and fireworks. Of course, if you’re looking for some boozier options, 6th Street is where it’s at for blocks and blocks of bars and bands.
5. Las Vegas, NV
If you’re looking for glitz, glamor, great food, and maybe a little bit of sin thrown in for good measure, you certainly can’t go wrong in Vegas. Not only do you have your pick of world-class clubs, but the strip itself is a total party, so grab a drink, stroll along, and take it all in. Don’t forget to see a show, too! In addition to Cirque du Soleil, newcomer to the Strip, Britney Spears promises a diva-licious evening of song and dance to usher in 2015.
