Which U.S. cities are considered best for ringing in the New
Year? That is, without putting a strain on the wallets of travelers who’ve
already been hit hard by inflation.
A study by WalletHub compared the 100 biggest U.S. cities
across 26 key metrics to determine which destinations
are the best choice for pop-the-cork toasts and fireworks celebrations
without breaking the bank. Times Square might be the most famous destination
for ringing in the New Year, but it’s also extremely expensive as local
businesses are known to hike up their prices for major events.
WalletHub Analyst Chip Lupo said in a statement, “Celebrating
New Year’s Eve in the right city can turn
the holiday into a truly magical experience. The best cities for New Year’s
celebrations have clear skies and some of the best fireworks displays around.
The top cities also offer an abundance of highly rated, affordable dining
options, along with a vibrant nightlife and plenty of activities to make your
transition into the new year a memorable one.”
He added, “Orlando, FL, is the best city for ringing in the
new year. It ranks as the second-most fun city in the U.S. overall, and has the
fourth-most party supply stores and the fifth-most nightlife options per
capita. Orlando offers a great fireworks display with a solid, enjoyable
duration, and consumer fireworks are legal, so people can set up their own
shows.”
Here are the top New Years destinations.
Orlando, FLLas Vegas, NVNew York, NYSeattle, WALos Angeles, CA San Diego, CAChicago, ILWashington, D.C.San Francisco, CAMiami, FLAnaheim, CATampa, FLPittsburgh, PAAtlanta, GALouisville, KYSt. Louis, MOBoston, MADenver, COCincinnati, OHPhiladelphia, PA
Other key study takeaways include:
142 million Americans will travel for the New Year’s holiday,
with 64 percent driving to their destinations.55 percent of Americans plan to celebrate New Year’s Eve
with family or friendsThe average cost for a couple to enjoy dinner and a show on
New Year’s Eve in the three larges cities of New York, Los Angeles and Chicago
is $772.360+ million glasses of sparkling wine are consumed each New
Year’s Eve.
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