For many of us, it’s time to hit the fast-forward button to move beyond 2010, with its depressing economy and nasty political campaigns. As the clock ticks toward midnight on Dec. 31, here’s what to look for from revelers in Las Vegas, who may well chant “Roll on 2011!”
America’s Party, as it’s dubbed, climaxes with fireworks at midnight, shot from the rooftops of seven Strip hotels. While the pyrotechnics will be visible from anywhere in the Strip’s sea of humanity, certain locations – with a price tag attached, of course – will provide excellent vantage points not only for what’s happening in the sky, but also for people-watching.
Surrender Nightclub at Encore, 3121 Las Vegas Blvd South Las Vegas
One of Sin City’s new hot spots – Surrender Nightclub at Encore – is offering what promoters are calling “the definitive luxury experience”: watching the folks and the fireworks from the balcony of one of eight deluxe bungalows, complete with widescreen TVs and private bathrooms.
001-702-770-3633
surrendernightclub.com
The Cosmopolitan hotel, next to the Bellagio, 3708 Las Vegas Boulevard South
The new Cosmopolitan hotel will be celebrating with shows by Coldplay and Jay-Z, who’ll then combine for a joint set. Can’t get an invitation to this hot venue? Don’t worry – the show will be projected on a 65-foot screen overlooking the gigantic block party.
001-702-698-7000
cosmopolitanlasvegas.com
3663 Las Vegas Blvd, South, not the one opposite the Venitian
Across the street at Planet Hollywood, the PBR Rock Bar & Grill has a large patio overlooking the Strip. An all-you-can-drink open bar is offered and a DJ will be spinning the discs until 5am.
001-702-750-1685
pbrrockbar.com
Moon Nightclub at Palms, 4321 West Flamingo Road
Moon Nightclub offers unparalleled views of the Strip — including the midnight show in the sky — from atop the Palms. Live music will be provided by party band LMFAO.
001-702-942-6832
n9negroup.com
Panevino restaurant, 246 Via Antonio Avenue, Las Vegas
More urbane celebrants may wish to opt for the off-Strip Panevino Restaurant. Located just south of the airport, this eatery is popular with locals and offers panoramas of the skyline, plus a special five-course dinner complete with live entertainment and party favors.
001-702-222-2400
panevinolasvegas.com
Sushisamba, 3325 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Las Vegas
Revelers can choose to ring in the New Year Rio-style at Sushisamba at the Palazzo. In true Brazilian fashion, the staff will be in festive white dress to pay homage to Yemanja, the ocean goddess. Samba dancers will add to the evening’s theme.
001-702-607-0700
Sushisamba
Fremont Street Experience, 25 Fremont Street, Las Vegas
In not-as-pricey downtown Las Vegas, the Fremont Street Experience will have 12 tribute bands providing music. The city’s gin-swilling mayor, Oscar Goodman, will lead the countdown to 2011.
001-702-678-5777
vegasexperience.com
Tacos & Tequila at the Luxor (the pyramid-shaped one) 3900 South Las Vegas Boulevard
For those who can’t wait till midnight to make some noise, Tacos & Tequila at the Luxor is the place to be. It’ll have an East Coast countdown, complete with mariachi band, as the ball drops in Times Square at 9pm Pacific time.
001-702-262-5225
tacosandtequilalv.com
Emma Ward
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