Las Vegas is a go-to destination for celebrating New Year’s Eve. With world-class entertainment, over-the-top resorts, and bountiful buffets to keep you full, there’s an endless list of reasons why Vegas is top of the list for celebrating in style. If you’re planning your trip and wondering how to make this year’s send-off even more special, consider these brag-worthy venues for cocktails and countdowns:

Beauty & Essex

Vegas NYE
http://beautyandessex.com

Sneak into this lovely spot covertly hidden inside The Cosmopolitan, tucked away behind what appears to be a guitar pawn shop. Open the unmarked door that looks like it leads to a closet, and find yourself in the sleekest spot in town. Order an Earl the Pearl cocktail (Hangar One vodka, Earl Grey tea, lemon, mint syrup), and enjoy the sophisticated ambiance.

Ferraro’s

Vegas NYE
https://www.facebook.com/FerrarosLV

For an off-the-beaten-path New Year’s Eve, head just off-strip to Ferraro’s, a family-run Italian restaurant and wine bar with a wonderful focus on tradition. Let the sommelier suggest a Piedmont wine pairing to go with braised short ribs that melt in your mouth.

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Mario Batali and Joe Bastianich’s B&B Ristorante

Vegas NYE
http://bandbristorante.com/

Love sampling celebrity chef menus? This joint caters to the fine-dining crowd, but this is an equally great spot to grab an intimate drink before fireworks. B&B has an impressive wine menu, but you’ll also find plenty of beer and cocktails. Try the super-refreshing blood orange cosmopolitan. For bar bites, sample the grilled octopus or house-cured salumi with pickles and marinated olives.

Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill

Vegas NYE
https://www.gordonramsayrestaurants.com/pub-and-grill-las-vegas/

For even more celebrity chef sampling, head to Gordon Ramsay’s spot for exciting new menu offerings, including the Christmas Pudding Hard Shake Cocktail, which features gingerbread syrup. For the ultimate in decadence, the S’mores Hard Shake will thrill your inner child. If you’re into more traditional cocktails, go for the Bloody Mary decorated in a wonderful edible spread. Pair with the best bar bites in town. My favorites include the mac n’ cheese sampler and the Maine lobster & shrimp roll minis. Don’t forget the sticky toffee pudding!

Skyfall Lounge

Vegas NYE
https://www.facebook.com/pg/DelanoVegas/photos/?ref=page_internal

Looking for a little romance? Take your date to the top of the Strip for sunset hour at the Skyfall Lounge, located atop the Delano. The 64-floor ride in a glass elevator grants a preview of the amazing view you’ll have once inside. A glass-encased patio offers panoramic views of the Strip and mountain landscape. This sophisticated lounge offers a wallet-sensitive bar bite menu. The allergy-free chickpea fries go nicely with Champagne or specialty martinis.

The Ice Rink

Vegas NYE
https://www.facebook.com/TheCosmopolitan

If you’re traveling with family, head to the Ice Rink on top of the Cosmopolitan where a seasonal beverage menu is paired with s’mores roasting, ice skating, twinkle lights, and music. Try the Egg Noggy Nog — a rum cocktail that will warm your soul. Once the kids are tucked in with the grandparents, enjoy NYE with an open bar and live DJ.

High Roller

Vegas NYE

If you’re looking for the best seat in the house, hop on the High Roller for a 550-foot ride in the sky, perfect for watching fireworks. The world’s tallest observation wheel is offering six different New Year’s Eve packages featuring a premium bar and Champagne. Ticket holders are also invited to a VIP pre-party including live music and a dance party.

AmeriCAN Beer & Cocktails

Vegas NYE

This one’s for you if you prefer a casual night out with the guys or gals. One of the newest additions to the Strip, AmeriCAN Beer and Cocktails is located in the heart of The LINQ Promenade. The sporty vibe is laid back and welcoming, offering beer selections from each of the 50 states along with a fresh cocktail menu. Challenge your friends to beer pong or Jenga and kick back for the countdown.

Sugarcane

Vegas NYE
https://sugarcanerawbargrill.com/lasvegas/

Finally, for one of the newest additions to the Strip, head to Sugarcane and ring in the New Year nibbling on globally-inspired small plates and a refreshing Spice of Love cocktail (Grey Goose vodka, passion fruit purée, mango purée, fresh jalapeño).

WHERE TO STAY

Bunk with friends at The LINQ if you want to be in the center of New Year’s Eve activity. For more luxurious accommodations, book a suite at The Venetian and use resort credit to try even more dining and cocktail venues.