Dick Clark, Times Square, 8 million New Yorkers, and another 1 million tourists—there’s a reason this town is the epicenter of all things New Year’s. Although, as much as we enjoy a good testes joke, watching a big ball drop in sub-zero weather ain’t our idea of good time. Catch bigger and better thrills at these top 5 New Year’s parties in New York.
Top NYC New Year’s Party #1: Cipriani
There’s a reason Cipriani’s makes Page 6 every New Year. Models, celebrities, and socialites call this Venetian-inspired restaurant a home away from home, but you can get in on the action with a couple Benjamins and a smile.
More info on Cipriani 42nd Street New York
More info on Cipriani 42nd Street New Year's Eve
Top NYC New Year’s Party #2: Gansevoort Hotel
When the Gansevoort invites you to a hotel takeover party, you better be there. Ono Restaurant, G-Spa and Plunge are coming together for one NYE event covering everything from the heated outdoor rooftop to the basement spa. No baldheaded bouncers to turn you away here. Well, unless didn’t buy a ticket.
More info on the Gansevoort Hotel.
More info on the Hotel Gansevoort New Year's Eve
Top NYC New Year’s Party #3: STK
Steakhouses be damned. For the past year, STK put the spin on meat-munching with its greenmarket resto atmosphere and 
dreamscape décor. On NYE, this sexy MePa haunt puts away the steak knives, leveraging its lounge-y appeal for a VIP night of hors d’oeuvres, champagne and, as always, the A-list elite.
More info on STK New York
More info on STK New Year's Eve
Top NYC New Year’s Party #4: The Madison and Gypsy Tea
Ring in the New Year at Carson Daly’s official ode to 2008. The almost Mr. Tara Reid and late-night host will kick off the NBC Countdown at one of the city's newest venues, The Madison.
More info on The Madison New York and Gypsy Tea New York
More info on Gypsy Tea & The Madison New Year's Eve
Top NYC New Year’s Party #5: Pink Elephant
This pretty pachyderm is revving up for another New Year’s bash dripping with Euro-style panache. Since moving to its new West Chelsea digs, Pink Elephant has been host to many a celeb, socialite and locals lucky enough to get past the door. More info on Pink Elephant
More info on Pink Elephant New Years Eve