Now that Christmas has passed, you may be wondering what to do for New Year’s Eve this year. The holiday is known for bringing on a reformation of sorts, and what better way to celebrate than in a brand new city, less than a five-hour drive from Atlanta.
Savannah, GA
This chill, coastal Georgia city transforms into a party destination for the New Year, with celebrations held throughout the city.
Savannah’s waterfront puts on a show, complete with fireworks, music and performances. Grab a bite at nearby Vic’s on the River or Huey’s, and bask in the joy of the new year with all your fellow celebrants.
If you are looking for a refreshing way to bring in 2025, nearby Tybee Island hosts a Polar Plunge on the beach, where brave souls can wear their wackiest costumes and take a dip in the cold ocean water.
Stay at one of the city’s waterfront hotels, like the River Street Inn or The Marshall House.
Charleston, SC
A little over four hours from Atlanta, Charleston’s New Year’s Eve celebrations can’t be missed. A New Year’s Eve bar crawl will take you through downtown Charleston, stopping at the city’s best bars to help you ring in the new year right.
There will also be a classic NYE ball drop experience at The Wonderer, a lifestyle club and event space, complete with food and drinks, live performances and even circus acts.
Stay at the Post House Inn in the heart of Charleston’s Old Village or the Ryder Hotel downtown and turn your New Year’s Eve night into a perfect weekend.
Asheville, NC
Asheville has been on the mind of many in 2024, and there is no better way to celebrate the city’s slow but triumphant return than spending your NYE there.
Ring in the new year with a keg drop at The Whale, a longtime Asheville brewery. The Asheville Symphony is also putting on a tribute to the music of ABBA on New Year’s Eve night, if you want to celebrate 2025 by bringing it back to the 1970s.
Stay at Asheville’s beloved Biltmore, which will still be holding holiday celebrations until Jan. 5. If you’re looking to stay somewhere more chill, try the Cambria Hotel downtown.
Gatlinburg, TN
Gatlinburg may be one of the South’s lesser know major cities, but its NYE celebrations are sure to put it on the map.
Families with young children can visit Gatlinburg’s Space Needle, home to an annual ball drop tradition since 1987. With live music, a drone show and a fireworks finale, New Year’s Eve here is sure to be memorable.
If you’re looking to turn the night into an unforgettable family trip, stay at Dollywood in nearby Pigeon Forge and enjoy the park’s own New Year traditions.
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