New Year’s Eve fireworks in NYC

Guides trained by historian and tour leader Dr. Phil (not that one) organize multiple groups to take in the New Year from the iconic landmark. After tidbits about the bridge are revealed, all the tours will pause to scan the skyline for midnight fireworks. To book tickets visit the website. Multiple tours depart at 10:15pm; $60, children $30.

Bundle up for a free, low-key New Year’s Eve with hot beverages and fireworks sparkling over Park Slope. Live music starts at around 11pm at Grand Army Plaza, where you can also snag a free cup of hot cocoa. At midnight, fireworks will go off at Long Meadow; the best vantage points are at Grand Army Plaza, inside the park on West Drive and along Prospect Park West between Grand Army Plaza and 9th Street.

Since 1907, a sparkly sphere has been lowered in Times Square, and even though the rest of the country has adopted the tradition, New York can still lay claim to it. Arrive by 3pm (earlier if the weather is nice) to stake out a spot in the Broadway–Seventh Avenue bowtie, and be prepared to stay put: There are no public restrooms or food vendors, and leaving means giving up your spot. It may sound like no fun, but this is really the best kind of holiday masochism, and your endurance will be rewarded with performances held across two stages, beginning at 6pm. A burst of pyrotechnics from One Times Square, every hour on the hour through 11pm, should whet the appetite for the ball drop at a minute to midnight.

In case you want to ring in 2017 the healthy way versus pounding flutes of champagne and making out with a total stranger, join the New York Road Runners for a midnight run. There will be music, dancing and a countdown to midnight just before the gorgeous firework display.