Spending New Year’s Eve in Times Square to watch the famous ball drop is an unforgettable experience. For the best views and comfort, staying at nearby hotels like the New York Marriott Marquis or the Hyatt Centric Times Square can be ideal.
These hotels offer views of the ball drop and a warm, cozy spot away from the crowd. If you’re planning to join the crowd in Times Square, prepare for an early arrival, as spots fill up quickly, sometimes as early as the afternoon.
Remember, there are no public restrooms, and you’ll be there for hours, so plan accordingly. Whether from a hotel room or amidst the vibrant crowd, experiencing this iconic event is truly a unique way to ring in the New Year.
Where To Stay To See The Ball Drop In Times Square On New Year’s Eve?
If you’re looking to experience the iconic New Year’s Eve ball drop in Times Square from the comfort of a hotel, there are several excellent options. Each of these hotels not only offers a great view of the event but also various amenities to enhance your stay.
- New York Marriott Marquis: This popular hotel in the Theatre District offers over 100 rooms with outstanding views of the ball drop. Additionally, it hosts a private party on the 8th floor overlooking the event. However, its 48th-floor restaurant, The View, does not offer views of the ball drop.
- M Social Hotel Times Square New York: Situated in the Theatre District, this recently renovated hotel offers modern, chic rooms with views of Broadway, Times Square, or the Hudson River. It’s known for its soundproof glazing of floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuring a quiet stay despite its central location.
- The Knickerbocker: This hotel is in high demand for New Year’s Eve, thanks to the St. Cloud rooftop bar on top of the hotel. It is only 180 feet away from the ball drop, offering an unbeatable view. The hotel is renowned for its rich history, elegant interiors, and rooftop parties on New Year’s Eve.
- Hyatt Centric Times Square New York: Located right at Times Square, this hotel features a lounge on the roof and rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows for great views. Bar 54 at the hotel offers one of the best views of Times Square and the ball drop.
- The Times Square EDITION: Known for its cool design, wonderful atmosphere, and rooftop bar, this hotel offers a sensational view of Times Square and the ball drop.
- W New York Times Square: This hotel is a blend of urban chic and playful luxury. It’s located in the center of Times Square and offers a dazzling view of the ball drop from its rooms and vibrant lounges.
- Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel: Ideally located on Times Square, it provides a prime spot for viewing the ball drop. It features rooms with balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows, a panoramic Times Square view from its R Lounge, and a well-equipped fitness center.
- Crown Plaza Times Square Manhattan: Offering a special NYE package, this hotel provides access to a private area with views of the ball drop. However, the view isn’t visible from guest rooms due to other buildings. It boasts a large fitness center and an indoor pool.
- Residence Inn New York Manhattan/Central Park: A short distance from Central Park, this hotel offers views of the ball drop from south-facing, top-floor rooms. It provides a complimentary hot breakfast and access to a fitness room.
For contact information and more details on each hotel, you can visit their respective websites or booking platforms. It’s advisable to book these hotels well in advance, especially for the New Year’s Eve period, as they are in high demand.
10 Rooftop Bars or Restaurants that offer Times Square Ball Drop Viewing
For a spectacular view of the Times Square Ball Drop, consider these rooftop bars and restaurants, each offering a unique atmosphere and breathtaking views of the city:
- Elsie Rooftop: Located near Bryant Park, Elsie Rooftop is a fashionable 1920s-style cocktail bar on the 25th floor. It offers indoor and outdoor seating with views of Manhattan’s skyscrapers. Their New Year’s Eve celebration includes a premium open bar, appetizers, a champagne toast, and a live DJ. Prices start at $399 for general admission.
- Refinery Rooftop: Situated on the 13th floor of the Refinery Hotel in Midtown Manhattan, this rooftop venue features a rustic, charming atmosphere with an indoor lounge and a rooftop terrace. It offers views of the Empire State Building and Manhattan skyline, and hosts a New Year’s Eve Party with a premium open bar, live DJ, and a live feed of the Times Square Ball Drop.
- Beast & Butterflies at M Social: This rooftop bar at M Social Hotel Times Square offers unobstructed views of Times Square. The New Year’s Eve party here includes a premium open bar, fancy bites, champagne toast, DJ sets, and live entertainment.
- 230 Fifth: One of NYC’s largest rooftop bars, it features an indoor/outdoor lounge with views of the Empire State Building. The New Year’s Eve Extravaganza here includes an open bar, light bites, two dance floors, and two live DJs.
- Haven Rooftop: Located in the Sanctuary Hotel, it offers a view of the city from the 9th floor and serves handcrafted cocktails and specialized cuisine. The venue hosts rooftop brunches with unlimited Mimosas and happy hours.
- The View Restaurant & Lounge: This restaurant offers a panoramic view of Times Square and serves beverages, cocktails, wines, and top-quality dishes. It’s known for its incredible Sunday brunch.
- Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge: Located on the 18th-floor terrace of Moxy NYC Times Square, it features indoor and outdoor settings with views of the city’s skyline. It serves cocktails and a selection of beer and wines.
- Castell Rooftop Lounge: Situated atop the AC Hotel by Marriott, this rooftop restaurant and bar offers stunning views of the city’s skyline. It serves top-quality dishes and a wide selection of drinks.
- Connolly’s Pub & Restaurant: A family-owned establishment between 6th & Broadway, it offers Irish culture with a menu that includes delicious food and a variety of beers.
- The Skylark: Near Times Square on the 30th floor, it provides stunning city views, including the Empire State Building and Hudson River. The Skylark serves classic cocktails and small plates in a luxurious setting.
Each venue offers a unique experience, so it’s a good idea to research and book in advance, especially for New Year’s Eve celebrations.
How do I watch the time Square Ball Drop?
To watch the Times Square Ball Drop, you have several options:
- In-Person Viewing: The celebration begins before 6:00 PM EST on New Year’s Eve, with the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball raised to the top of the pole at One Times Square around 6:00 PM. The Ball descends at 11:59 PM to signal the New Year. Revelers usually gather in the afternoon, and entry to viewing areas is on a first-come, first-served basis. Access to Times Square on December 31st is from 6th Avenue or 8th Avenue only, with specific access points detailed on the Times Square NYC website.
- Online Streaming: You can watch the event online via a commercial-free webcast starting at 6 PM on December 31 on TimesSquareNYC.org. This can be accessed from a computer or mobile devices like tablets or smartphones. The Livestream app can also be used to connect to the webcast.
- Television and Streaming Services: The event is also broadcast on television networks, including ABC, which offers the event live on TV and on the ABC website and app. Streaming services like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and fuboTV also provide access to the event.
Remember, no tickets are required for the event, and it’s open to everyone on a first-come, first-served basis. You should contact the business directly for special access instructions for those attending parties or events within Times Square.
Where is the best view of the ball drop in Times Square?
The best view of the ball drop in Times Square can be obtained from the following locations:
- In-person at Times Square: The public viewing areas offer a direct view of the ball drop. These areas are accessible on a first-come, first-served basis and typically fill up in the afternoon on New Year’s Eve.
- Hotels with a View: Certain hotels in and around Times Square, such as the New York Marriott Marquis, the Hyatt Centric Times Square, and The Knickerbocker, offer rooms with views of the ball drop. Booking a room with a view or attending a hotel-hosted New Year’s Eve party can provide a comfortable and exclusive viewing experience.
- Rooftop Bars and Restaurants: Some rooftop venues in Times Square provide a great view of the ball drop. These venues often host New Year’s Eve events that might require advance booking and tickets.
Each option varies in terms of cost, comfort, and convenience, so it’s advisable to plan and book in advance, especially for hotel stays and event tickets.
Tips And Tricks To Make a NYC New Year’s Fun
To experience the iconic New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square, planning ahead and preparing for a long evening is important. Here are some tips and information to make your night both enjoyable and safe:
Arrival Time
- Early Arrival: Many people arrive from 2-3 PM to secure a good viewing spot. Prime spots, especially around 44-46th Streets & Broadway, are often taken by those who arrive several hours in advance.
- Consider Alternatives: If you cannot get into the main viewing area, local restaurants and bars in the vicinity often show the event on TV.
Transportation and Access
- Subway Stations: The 42nd Street-Times Square subway station may be closed due to street closures. Consider alternative stations like Rockefeller Center Station, Grand Central Station, or Penn Station to access Times Square.
- Entry Points: Times Square’s north and south ends are recommended for entry. Specific streets, like 47th Street near the red stairs, are good entry points.
What to Bring
- Pack Light: Security is tight and large bags or backpacks are not allowed. Carry essentials only, like ID, cash, and necessary personal items.
- Food and Water: Eat a substantial meal before arriving and bring snacks. However, be mindful of your water intake as there are no public restrooms in the area.
- Appropriate Clothing: Dress in layers and wear warm clothing, including gloves, scarves, and winter boots. You will be standing outside for several hours, often in cold weather.
During the Event
- Safety: Be vigilant about your belongings to prevent pickpocketing. Keep bags zipped and valuables out of sight.
- Stay in Place: Once you find a good spot, it’s advisable to stay there. The area gets closed off in the evening, and leaving might mean losing your spot.
- No Public Drinking: Public drinking is prohibited in Times Square, and police are strict about enforcing this rule.
Post-Event Planning
- Plan for After Midnight: After the ball drops, have a plan for getting home. The area becomes extremely crowded, and it can be difficult to navigate through the streets.
Alternative Celebrations
- Other NYE Parties: Consider attending a VIP party or formal gala at nearby hotels like St. Cloud at the Knickerbocker Hotel, Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel, or the New York Marriott Marquis for views of the Ball Drop without the crowd.
- Watching Virtually: If attending in person is not feasible, the event is also broadcasted live, allowing you to partake in the festivities from the comfort of your home.
Remember, this event draws a huge crowd, so patience and preparedness are key to enjoying your New Year’s Eve experience in Times Square.
Do you have to pay to see the ball drop in Times Square?
No, you do not have to pay to see the ball drop in Times Square on New Year’s Eve. The event is free and open to the public. Viewing spots in Times Square are available on a first-come, first-served basis. However, it’s important to note that space can be limited, and the area tends to get very crowded. People often start arriving early in the afternoon to secure a good viewing spot.
While the main event is free, some nearby venues, such as restaurants and hotels, may offer parties or events with a view of the ball drop, and these usually require paid tickets. These tickets can vary in price depending on the venue and the package offered. These ticketed events often provide a more comfortable viewing experience, with amenities like food, drinks, and restrooms, which are not available in the public viewing areas.
On average, how many people go to Times Square to see the ball drop?
Attending the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball Drop is a unique experience, but it’s important to have realistic expectations about the crowd size. Contrary to popular belief, the actual number of people who can fit into Times Square for the event is much less than the millions often reported. Crowd science experts estimate that the real number is likely fewer than 100,000 people. This is due to the physical space limitations of Times Square and the setup for the event, which includes stages, security apparatus, and egress routes.
In earlier years, estimates ranged around 500,000, but more recent figures provided by city officials and event organizers have inflated the number to 1 or 2 million. However, these higher estimates are considered highly improbable by experts. The area simply cannot accommodate that many people, especially when considering the necessary space for safety and crowd management infrastructure.
If you’re planning to attend the event, it’s crucial to arrive early, as good viewing spots are taken hours in advance. Also, keep in mind the logistical challenges, such as lack of public restrooms and restrictions on large bags, which can impact your experience.
Do people wear diapers when watching the ball drop on New Year’s Eve?
It is indeed true that some people attending the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball Drop choose to wear adult diapers. Due to the lack of public restrooms and the challenge of leaving and then re-entering the crowd, some attendees opt for this solution to avoid the discomfort of not having bathroom access for many hours. This choice underscores the commitment and planning required for those who decide to experience this iconic event in person.