10 Best U.S. Destinations for New Year’s Eve with Kids
Looking for the perfect place to celebrate New Year’s Eve with your kids? From magical theme parks to exciting city celebrations, the U.S. offers plenty of family-friendly destinations to ring in the new year. Whether you’re after fun fireworks, thrilling activities, or a relaxing holiday getaway, these locations provide unforgettable experiences for the whole family. Discover the best spots where you and your kids can create lasting memories as you welcome the new year together.
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Orlando, Florida (Disney World/Universal Studios)
Orlando is undoubtedly one of the best places for families to ring in the New Year. Disney World offers a magical experience with its special New Year’s Eve fireworks shows, parades, and themed events at each of the parks. Kids can enjoy activities throughout the day and night, with options to meet their favorite characters, enjoy the rides, and witness spectacular fireworks displays. Universal Studios also hosts family-friendly celebrations, featuring themed parties, live performances, and more. Whether your family prefers thrilling rides or a relaxed day enjoying the holiday magic, Orlando provides endless fun for everyone.
Both Disney World and Universal Studios offer New Year’s Eve experiences that are tailored for families. The entire city transforms into a celebration, with fireworks lighting up the sky, and themed events creating memories that will last a lifetime. With attractions that cater to all ages, Orlando makes it easy for families to enjoy the holiday together in a world of fantasy and fun.
San Diego, California
San Diego is an ideal place for families who want to enjoy a sunny, beachy New Year’s Eve. With its mild weather and coastal beauty, the city provides a unique atmosphere for a family-friendly celebration. Families can enjoy watching the fireworks over the ocean or visit attractions like the San Diego Zoo, which often hosts special evening events. The city’s many beaches are also perfect for a relaxed and festive experience, where families can play in the sand and then enjoy a colorful fireworks show to welcome the new year.
In addition to the beautiful beachside setting, San Diego offers a variety of family events throughout the day and night. The highlight for many families is the Big Bay Boom Fireworks Show, which can be seen from various locations around the city. Whether you are looking for a quiet moment on the beach or an exciting fireworks display, San Diego provides a fun and sunny way to ring in the new year.
Boston, Massachusetts (First Night Boston)
Boston’s First Night celebration is a long-standing tradition that provides a city-wide, family-friendly New Year’s Eve experience. With a mix of free activities, performances, and fireworks, it’s an event that both parents and kids will enjoy. The day includes ice sculptures, live music, and even parades, giving families plenty of options to stay entertained. Kids can enjoy the kid-friendly events like the ice skating rink at Frog Pond, face painting, and the family fireworks display at midnight.
First Night is one of the oldest and most famous New Year’s Eve events in the U.S., offering something for every member of the family. It’s a fantastic way to introduce children to the magic of celebrating the new year in a large, festive environment without the overwhelming crowds that come with larger events. The combination of art, performances, and fireworks makes Boston a top choice for families who want to celebrate the new year in an engaging and fun way.
New York City, New York
While Times Square is famous for its ball drop, New York City offers several kid-friendly activities that cater to families celebrating New Year’s Eve. Families can enjoy visiting Central Park for ice skating or take a trip to the New York Hall of Science for a day of educational activities. The city’s festive atmosphere extends beyond Times Square, with kid-friendly shows, events, and activities for all ages. For families that want to avoid the large crowds, there are smaller celebrations held throughout the city in various neighborhoods.
A must-visit for families is the annual Family-friendly New Year’s Eve event at the American Museum of Natural History. Here, kids can learn, play, and ring in the new year with fun exhibits and interactive experiences. New York City’s diversity and excitement provide endless opportunities for families to create special memories together on this festive night.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg offers a charming, mountain-town atmosphere perfect for a cozy New Year’s Eve celebration with the family. The town hosts a fun, kid-friendly celebration, including a family-friendly ball drop at the top of the hour and fireworks displays over the Smoky Mountains. Children can enjoy face painting, carnival games, and live music performances throughout the day. The holiday magic is enhanced by the scenic views of the mountains, giving families the chance to enjoy both the excitement of the celebration and the tranquility of nature.
In addition to the evening celebrations, Gatlinburg is home to several attractions that families can enjoy, including Ripley’s Aquarium and Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort. Families can make the most of the day by exploring the local shops, enjoying delicious meals, and taking in the stunning mountain scenery. The combination of nature and festivities makes Gatlinburg an ideal choice for a laid-back, yet exciting, family-friendly New Year’s Eve.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago provides a festive environment for families during the holiday season, with several kid-friendly events leading up to and including New Year’s Eve. The Navy Pier offers a family-friendly celebration with fireworks, live entertainment, and a kid-friendly party atmosphere. The city’s museums, including the Museum of Science and Industry, often host special New Year’s Eve programs for families, such as interactive exhibits and themed events. Additionally, the famous Chicago Children’s Museum features exciting activities to keep little ones entertained as they count down to midnight.
Chicago’s lakeside location makes it a perfect backdrop for fireworks, with several spots offering stunning views of the city’s skyline and Lake Michigan. Families can also enjoy wintertime activities like ice skating at Maggie Daley Park or shopping at the Christkindlmarket. The combination of festive events, cultural attractions, and outdoor fun makes Chicago a fantastic place for families to spend New Year’s Eve together.
Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., provides a rich blend of history and festivity for families celebrating New Year’s Eve. The National Mall and the National Harbor are perfect locations for watching fireworks displays, with family-friendly activities that take place all day long. Kids can enjoy outdoor ice skating or visit the Smithsonian Museums, which offer free admission on certain days during the holiday season. Families can also take part in the annual First Night celebrations, which feature live performances and a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.
D.C. offers a variety of celebrations to suit all tastes, from the National Fireworks display to performances at The Kennedy Center. For those looking for a quieter celebration, there are many family-oriented events throughout the city that feature hands-on activities, arts and crafts, and festive performances. Washington, D.C., ensures that New Year’s Eve is a memorable experience for both children and adults alike.
Denver, Colorado
Denver offers a unique combination of outdoor adventure and city celebrations that are perfect for families looking for a fun, action-packed New Year’s Eve. The annual “Downtown Denver’s New Year’s Eve Celebration” includes live music, ice skating at Skyline Park, and a family-friendly fireworks display. Families can also enjoy free, family-oriented activities at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, or head to one of the many nearby ski resorts for a day of snow-filled fun.
In addition to the city-wide festivities, Denver’s parks and open spaces are great for winter hikes or family walks to enjoy the holiday decorations. Whether you prefer a fun-filled urban celebration or a peaceful day in the snow, Denver offers a range of activities for families to enjoy together as they ring in the new year.
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville’s New Year’s Eve celebrations are full of energy, yet still very family-friendly. The city’s annual “Bash on Broadway” offers a mix of live music, food trucks, and fireworks in a festive atmosphere that families can enjoy. While this event does attract larger crowds, there are plenty of activities for kids throughout the day, including the annual Family Fun Zone. Families can also explore the city’s many kid-friendly attractions, like the Nashville Zoo or the Adventure Science Center.
Nashville’s southern charm, combined with its lively New Year’s Eve celebration, ensures that families can experience the excitement of ringing in the new year while keeping things fun and low-key for the little ones. With music, entertainment, and lots of hands-on activities, Nashville is a wonderful place for a memorable family celebration.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is famous for its lively celebrations, and New Year’s Eve is no exception. The city’s family-friendly events, including the annual “ fleur-de-lis” drop in Jackson Square, are perfect for those looking for a unique and cultural way to ring in the new year. Kids will love the special activities at the Children’s Museum or the aquarium, and the whole family can enjoy the lively music scene that New Orleans is known for.
The French Quarter, with its festive atmosphere, provides families with opportunities to enjoy parades, live music, and delicious local cuisine. For those who prefer a quieter evening, take a stroll along the riverfront or enjoy a family-friendly dinner in one of the city’s many restaurants. New Orleans combines culture, fun, and festivities, making it a wonderful destination for families during the New Year.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.