With New Years Eve right around the corner, East Coasters have tons of great options of where to go to ring in 2015 with friends and loved ones. Whether you’re wanting to get out of town for a road trip someplace nearby or hop on a flight for a complete change of scenery, celebrating New Years is made simple in these 5 destinations.

Rooftop Parties in New York City

Times Square is truly the one place to be if you want to feel like you’re at the center of the universe on New Years Eve, but a great alternative to being packed shoulder to shoulder in the freezing cold is to splurge a bit and do New Years in class at the Monarch Rooftop Terrace, where you can enjoy a 6 hour open bar, a heated and comfortable setting as well as the million dollar views of the ball dropping at midnight.

Live Music in Austin, Texas

I’m a big fan of doing something new and unique to celebrate my New Years, and Austin is the capital of unique and quirky.  Bursting with new music artists, you’ll find tons of affordable concerts at intimate venues where you can toast to 2015.  One of my top picks is the Talking Heads concert at The Parish, and keep with the uniqueness of Austin by staying at the nearby Hotel Ella or The Driskill, both walkable to The Parish.

Yorktown Countdown Outside of Charleston, South Carolina

Groups of friends can party away their last minutes of 2014 aboard the historical USS Yorktown outside of Charleston.  This evening on the water is ideal if your traveling in packs as the party is spread out over 3 decks, encompassing live music, DJs and open air spaces.  What’s best, your whole group can even stay together at Restoration on King’s apartment style suites, perfect for any early evening aperitifs before the spectacular celebration.

Family Skiing at Montage Mountain in Scranton, Pennsylvania

Outdoorsy and active families can have a great New Years Eve bonding experience with late night skiing and tubing on Montage Mountain, then returning to their home base at The Courtyard by Marriott for a cozy countdown with hot cocoa, pizza, s’mores and beers for Mom and Dad.

A Feast of the Senses at Potomac Point Winery in Virginia Wine Country

Foodies can break out the disco gear and be prepared to tantalize their taste buds with cocktails, a gourmet New Years Eve dinner and award winning wines at Potomac Point Winery’s Studio 54 themed party.  This final feast of 2014 will set the precedent for a year ahead full of great food, drink and friends.