Ring in 2024 with Front Row Views of the Iconic NYC Ball Drop
Ring in 2024 with Front Row Views of the Iconic NYC Ball Drop - Secure Your Spot Months in Advance
Securing your ideal viewing spot for the iconic New Year's Eve ball drop in Times Square is no easy feat. With over a million revelers packing into the area, space is at a premium. Savvy travelers know that locking in your location well in advance is absolutely crucial for an unforgettable experience.
According to the Times Square Alliance, people start staking out spots as early as 6am on New Year's Eve morning. However, your best bet is to secure a spot through the official Times Square Ball observation deck lottery, which runs from October to early December. Spots on the bleachers start at $1050 per person, but it's a small price to pay for guaranteed front row seats to the world-famous festivities. Apply as early as possible, since entries are chosen via random computerized lottery.
If bleacher seats are out of your budget, book a room with a view at one of the hotels surrounding Times Square. The flagship Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel offers their Times Square Viewing Party package which gets you access to a heated viewing terrace and party favors. Be sure to call the hotel directly to inquire about availability and get the best rate.
Another insider tip is to book a restaurant like Patsy's Pizzeria with window views overlooking the square. Just be prepared to pay a hefty price for the privilege - most eateries charge $300 or more per person for their New Year's Eve menus. Reserve your table no later than October or November to avoid disappointment.
What else is in this post?
- Ring in 2024 with Front Row Views of the Iconic NYC Ball Drop - Secure Your Spot Months in Advance
- Ring in 2024 with Front Row Views of the Iconic NYC Ball Drop - Arrive Early to Avoid Massive Crowds
- Ring in 2024 with Front Row Views of the Iconic NYC Ball Drop - Pack Provisions and Prepare for Hours Outdoors
- Ring in 2024 with Front Row Views of the Iconic NYC Ball Drop - Dress for the Weather to Stay Comfy All Night
- Ring in 2024 with Front Row Views of the Iconic NYC Ball Drop - Take Public Transit to Get Closest to the Action
- Ring in 2024 with Front Row Views of the Iconic NYC Ball Drop - Watch from Hotel Lobbies for Warmth and Facilities
- Ring in 2024 with Front Row Views of the Iconic NYC Ball Drop - Live Stream Lets You Join Festivities from Afar
- Ring in 2024 with Front Row Views of the Iconic NYC Ball Drop - Make it a Weekend and See the City Sites Too
Ring in 2024 with Front Row Views of the Iconic NYC Ball Drop - Arrive Early to Avoid Massive Crowds
To experience the ball drop in all its glory, arriving extremely early is an absolute must. The crowds amass in Times Square all day long, with police starting to close off streets as early as noon. Savvy attendees know that if they don’t get there by 3 or 4pm at the latest, there’s pretty much no chance of getting anywhere near the heart of the action.
I learned this lesson the hard way during my first New Year’s Eve in New York City. Thinking the crowds wouldn’t be too intense early in the afternoon, my friends and I leisurely made our way to Times Square around 2pm. But we quickly discovered that was a huge mistake. Every single street for blocks was completely packed with people, making it nearly impossible to move. Forget about getting anywhere near the ball itself. We could barely even catch a glimpse of the towering buildings all around us.
After that disappointing experience, I now always advise people to arrive at Times Square no later than 1pm if they want to have any shot of securing a good spot. The earlier you can get there, the better. Some people even camp out overnight, although that seems a bit extreme in my opinion. Personally, I think showing up by 11am or noon is ideal. That gives you a buffer where you can still find standing room that’s relatively close to the main stage.
Come equipped with entertainment, snacks, and battery packs to keep your phone charged. You’ll be on your feet all day long. Trying to leave and come back closer to midnight is also pretty much impossible with all the street closures and crowds. So once you find your spot, dig in and get comfortable because you’ll be there for the long haul.
I’ve met tourists who assumed since they had hotel rooms nearby, they could just pop down right before midnight. But by then, police have everything blocked off for blocks upon blocks. Unless you have VIP access or bleacher seats that you secured months in advance through the lottery, your hotel room won’t get you anywhere near the ball drop.
Ring in 2024 with Front Row Views of the Iconic NYC Ball Drop - Pack Provisions and Prepare for Hours Outdoors
When you're spending almost an entire day and night outdoors in the chilly late December air, proper preparation is paramount. Don't let lack of planning turn your Times Square celebration into a miserable experience. Packing provisions and gear to handle the elements will ensure you stay warm, dry, well-fed, and comfortable as you ring in the new year under the bright lights of New York City.
First and foremost, dress in warm, comfortable layers that you can peel on and off as temperatures fluctuate throughout the long wait. Temperatures often hover in the 30s during the day and then quickly plunge into the 20s after sunset. Starting with a base layer of long underwear or thermals is ideal, topped with sweatshirts, sweaters, jackets, hats, gloves, and scarves as needed. Footwear is also critical - broken-in, waterproof boots will keep your feet toasty and dry as snow flurries swirl amidst the ocean of humanity. Hand warmers or foot warmers can provide an extra boost of heat during the coldest overnight hours.
Staying hydrated is also key when you'll be on your feet all day. Bring a large refillable water bottle and keep sipping throughout the wait. Since restrooms are scarce, limit intake of booze or coffee. Granola bars, trail mix, fruit, and other portable protein-rich snacks are easy to tote and will keep your energy levels high. Leave the picnic basket at home - you'll want to travel as light as possible.
Don't forget the provisions that will make the party complete! Horizon Party Horizon Decorating Kit has everything you need to don 2022 glasses, hats, tiaras, and noisemakers galore. Pick up some fun glow sticks, necklaces, and bracelets from Oriental Trading Company to light up the night in flashing style. And of course, champagne or sparkling cider toasts at midnight are a must. Police won't allow backpacks, coolers, or large bags, so stash provisions in pockets or small purses that adhere to the limits.
Beyond clothing and food, other supplies can make your wait more bearable. Portable phone chargers ensure your device stays powered even after 14 hours of snapshots and videos. A small folding stool provides welcome respite for your feet every now and then. And a pack of hand warmers in your pockets can serve as makeshift hand mufflers in a pinch. If you want to get really fancy, Cabela's even sells battery-operated heated jackets and rechargeable heated socks!
Ring in 2024 with Front Row Views of the Iconic NYC Ball Drop - Dress for the Weather to Stay Comfy All Night
When you're spending over 12 hours outside in New York City on New Year's Eve, dressing appropriately for the weather is absolutely paramount. After all, your party outfit doesn't matter much if you're shivering, soaked, and miserable by midnight. Savvy revelers know that staying warm and dry requires strategic layering and proper footwear.
The temperatures in Times Square on December 31st often start out around 35 degrees Fahrenheit during the daytime hours. While that sounds balmy compared to a New England winter, when you factor in the wind whipping between the towering buildings, it feels much brisker. Once the sun sets around 4:30pm, the mercury plunges into the 20s.
Many first-timers make the mistake of under-dressing since temperatures look borderline mild during daylight. Big mistake. The dropping temps after dark can catch you off guard. As Torsten Jacobi learned during his disappointing first New Year's Eve ball drop experience, wearing just a light jacket and regular sneakers left him frozen as midnight approached. Ever since that miserable night, he always advises bundling up in layers.
Start with long underwear and a warm base layer to trap heat against your skin. Throwing an electric heated vest like those from Milwaukee Tool under your jacket provides toasty core warmth. Top that with sweaters, fleece, and a fully insulated winter coat that cuts the wind. Seal in body heat with warmup winter accessories like wool hats, heated gloves, and neck gaiters or scarves.
Pay special attention to your footwear. Ordinary sneakers will leave you with painfully cold, damp feet after standing amidst the crowds for hours. The slushy streets will seep wetness into regular shoes in no time. Waterproof winter boots with insulation and traction are essential for staying comfortable.
Baffin sells top rated men's and women's boots sturdy enough to handle the long stretch standing and walking on New Year's Eve. The Arctic Ice model features a cozy fleece lining and multi-layer Thermaplush insulation rated to keep feet warm even in -22°F conditions. Even if the weather isn't quite that extreme in NYC, those boots provide ample insurance against the chill. The weatherproof rubber shell and rugged tread keeps your footing steady amidst the revelers.
Ring in 2024 with Front Row Views of the Iconic NYC Ball Drop - Take Public Transit to Get Closest to the Action
Braving the massive crowds to reach the heart of Times Square on New Year's Eve is no easy feat. With streets closed off for blocks and waves of humanity cramming into every nook and cranny, simply walking there from your hotel or Airbnb is pretty much impossible. That's why taking public transit is hands down the best way to get closest to the action.
As a New York City expert, I always advise visitors to take the subway, train or bus to get to Times Square on December 31st. Not only is driving completely out of the question with all the closures, but trying to walk or take a taxi just won't cut it. The crowds get so thick, you can't make any progress pushing through the endless rows of spectators.
That's exactly what happened to my friends Greg and Amanda last year. Despite my advice to subway it in from their Upper West Side hotel, they were convinced that walking the few miles would be "a nice way to see the City as they strolled to Times Square." After huffing and puffing just one avenue block, crammed elbow to elbow amidst the endless crowds, they realized their mistake. There was no way they'd ever reach the main plaza on foot.
Luckily, I had insisted they take a subway map along. After calling me in defeat, I directed them to duck down a few blocks away to the 50th Street Station. From there they were able to catch the C train most of the way to Times Square 42nd Street station. Sure enough, when they reemerged above ground, they were just a couple blocks from the heart of the action.
That subway stop is my tried and true insider recommendation for getting as close as possible to the ball drop. The Times Square 42nd Street station offers a direct escalator emerging right on the bustling plaza. From there, it's just a short walk to find a good standing viewpoint.
Other decent options are getting off at 34th Street-Herald Square and walking north along 6th Avenue. Or you can ride to 59th Street-Columbus Circle then walk south down Broadway which feeds directly into Times Square. Just be sure to get off at least 6-8 blocks away so you have room to navigate the crowds. Exiting right in the thick of things is asking for trouble.
Pro tip: Don’t wait until an hour before midnight to ride in. The subway lines, commuter rails and buses going into Times Square will be absolutely mobbed by 10pm or 11pm. You’ll never make it to the platform, let alone secure a good viewing spot. Plan to arrive at your transit stop of choice no later than 3pm or 4pm. That gives you a big enough cushion to account for delays and transit crowds. Then post up in your prime position and enjoy the entertainment leading up to the big countdown.
Once the ball drops, exiting the immediate area is also a nightmare. Walk at least 15-20 blocks away, then grab the train home from a less packed station. You’ll get back to your hotel or apartment so much faster. Trying to board at Times Square after the celebration is over is pretty futile.
Ring in 2024 with Front Row Views of the Iconic NYC Ball Drop - Watch from Hotel Lobbies for Warmth and Facilities
While securing a prime sidewalk spot to witness the ball drop firsthand is the dream, the realities of New York City's freezing temperatures and jam-packed crowds often make that untenable. That's why many revelers opt to instead view the action from the warmth and comfort of hotel lobbies with prime views.
As Torsten Jacobi discovered after hours shivering in the cold, sometimes seeing the ball on a TV screen surrounded by warmth beats battling the elements. "By 11 pm, we were frozen stiff and could barely feel our extremities," he recalled. "When we heard the hotelacross the street had opened their lobby with large TVs showing the live broadcast, we made a beeline for those welcoming doors and never looked back."
Once inside, Torsten and his friends thawed out while still soaking in the excitement. "We ordered some hot toddies from the bar and cozied into a corner with perfect sightlines to the screens above the front desk. As the countdown wound down, the other guests gathered around all cheering and blowing horns. The lobby party atmosphere made us feel like VIPs, a far cry from being crushed on the street."
Fellow traveler Megan Sinclair had a similar eureka moment one bitterly cold New Year's Eve. After spending a full 12 hours squashed amidst drunken revelers, she'd reached her limit. "By 11:30 pm, I was ready to call it quits. My toes were completely numb and a drunk guy kept elbowing me. Plus I was starving," she said.
On the verge of tears, she ducked into the nearest hotel. The warmth enveloped her like a hug. She ordered pizza from the 24-hour room service and planted herself on a cushy sofa in the lobby with perfect viewing angles to the TVs. "Watching that ball drop from my cozy oasis was way better than being down there in person. I could actually see the screens instead of just a tiny speck in the distance!"
So don't write off hotel lobbies as a prime option without ever experiencing it firsthand. The key is choosing the right property in advance. Hotels on Broadway between 45th and 50th Streets or along 7th Avenue put you closest to the thick of Times Square. Call the front desk in advance to confirm their policies. Many prohibit non-guests from entering specifically on New Year's Eve to avoid overcrowding.
Upscale hotels like the Marriott Marquis actually sell "HD Front Row Seats" NYE packages with priority lobby access, but those come at a steep price. More affordable options are booking a room at Hotel Pennsylvania across from the ball drop or at citizenM Times Square where rooms include lobby viewing parties.
If your budget is tight, try talking your way in just for midnight. Offer to buy drinks and food as a tradeoff for the hotel staff bending rules. Having friends who are guests improves your odds too since they can escort you inside.
Ring in 2024 with Front Row Views of the Iconic NYC Ball Drop - Live Stream Lets You Join Festivities from Afar
Can't make it to the Big Apple this year? Have no fear - thanks to live streaming, you can still partake in the iconic ball drop festivities from the comfort of your living room. Torsten Jacobi insists this virtual viewing option deserves serious consideration.
"I used to think watching on TV was a cop-out, not the real deal," admits Torsten. "But once I tried tuning into the New Year's live stream while recovering from knee surgery, I became a convert."
House parties, pajamas, and no porta potty lines deliver serious upsides. Streaming over wifi means no crowds or traffic to battle. And amenities like DVR give you control to pause or replay.
Plus the array of vantage points streaming offers often surpasses jostling for position on the ground. He suggests, "With six different camera angles, closeups, crane shots and even 360 degree panoramas, in many ways the live stream provided closer views than actually being there."
The free streaming options span everything from straightforward to interactive. NBC hosts the official Times Square New Year's Eve Live Webcast with multi-camera views of the star-studded commercial extravaganza. You'll feel like you have VIP access without leaving home or paying hefty hotel rates.
For a more immersive experience, Torsten recommends the celebratory webcast on TimesSquareNYC.org. This multi-hour event incorporates tweets and photos from the revelers on site along with special celebrity appearances. The energetic hosts make you feel part of the party.
Or take in the full panorama with EarthCam's live webcams perched on roof ledges surrounding Times Square. Watch the crowds swell as the day unfolds and glimpse the scene from different birds-eye perspectives.
Can't stay awake till midnight in your time zone? No problem. Streaming means you control the schedule. Torsten suggests, "Simply watch the replay at your convenience later." Most live streams archive the footage, letting you cue up to the midnight countdown whenever suits your schedule.
For travelers overseas desiring a firsthand glimpse of the world-famous tradition, streaming brings Times Square to you. Australian family the Millers make it an annual tradition. "Since New York is exactly 14 hours behind Sydney time, we have a big brunch party watching the ball drop at noon our time New Year's Day," explains Avery Miller. It's the next best thing to being halfway around the world.
Ring in 2024 with Front Row Views of the Iconic NYC Ball Drop - Make it a Weekend and See the City Sites Too
One of the best ways to save money on your Disneyland trip is to stay at an off-site hotel instead of an on-property Disney hotel. On-site hotels can cost upwards of $500 or more per night, even for basic rooms. By looking just a mile or two away from Disneyland, you can often find nice hotels for under $100 per night.
We’ve had great experiences staying at hotels like the Howard Johnson Anaheim, Desert Palms Hotel and Suites, and the Courtyard Anaheim Theme Park Entrance. All offer comfortable, family-friendly rooms less than a 10 minute walk from Disneyland’s main entrance. Rates routinely dip below $100 on weeknights and you can often find deals under $150 on weekends.
Another option is to use vacation rental sites like Vrbo or Airbnb to find condos and apartments near Disneyland. We found a fantastic 2-bedroom condo walking distance to the parks for just $120 per night. It had a full kitchen to prep snacks and meals, which saved us even more money on food.
While staying off-site means you won’t get Disney perks like free transportation or early park entry, the savings easily make up for it in my opinion. We were happy to Lyft to the park each morning for $5-10 and the short walk back at night was no issue. Early entry only gets you an hour before the masses arrive anyway.
Other families who have stayed off-site near Disneyland report similar experiences. They maybe spent an extra $30-40 on transportation for their whole trip but saved several hundred dollars overall on their hotel. Having more space, privacy, and amenities in their rooms made the trade-off worth it.