More than a million people are expected to attend the Ball Drop Ceremony on New Year Eve 2016 at Times Square in New York City. Undoubtedly, it is going to be one of the hottest events of the year.
However, with a massive crowd attending the ceremony, it is a pain to find the perfect spot to witness the traditional Ball Drop. Here are some of the best spots that might help you to be a part of the event without much hassle and enjoy it fully.
According to the official website of Times Square, the New Year party will happen around the official New Year's Eve Ball that will descend from a flagpole at the top of 1 Times Square.
The best part about the event is you won't need to buy any tickets and can attend it at anytime. Undoubtedly, the party will be really crowded around it, so you might have to make your way through all the attendees.
However, there will be several parties in the nearby restaurants, diners and hotels where you can enjoy a wide range of food and beverages at a heavy discount. For the complete list of such places, CLICK HERE.
The Best Views
As mentioned in the official website of Times Square, the good viewing spots are those along Broadway (43rd-50th Streets) and Seventh Avenue as far north as 59th Street.
As most events will be live, it will be better to arrive earlier. There will be wide video screens installed at 1 Times Square as well as in the adjoining areas.
The New York Police Department will close down several parts of Times Square on 31 December from 43rd Street to Broadway, and will continue to north as the visitors will arrive.
How to Get There
Most probably, there won't be any traffic on Broadway or Seventh Avenue as early as 3 pm. However, if you are planning to visit the site by car, the Times Square Alliance suggests you take the route via Sixth or Eighth Avenues.
If you are coming by train, the Nos 1, 2, 3, 7, A, B, C, D, E, F, N, Q, R, W, V and S shuttle trains will lead to the Times Square area.
The MTA has advised not to use the 42nd Street Subway Station as there will be excessive crowding there. Instead, they suggest to exit through a nearby station and walk to Times Square.
The Ball Drop Timing
The New Year's Eve Ball Drop ceremony will begin at 11:59 pm at the flagpole at 1 Times Square.
Things to Consider
There won't be any working portable restroom throughout the event in Times Square.
Public drinking is not allowed. If police officers see you with alcohol, they will confiscate it.
There won't be any licensed hot dog or pretzel cart-vendors at the event. However, there will be several eateries in the area. CLICK HERE to find a list of restaurants.
Given that it will be pretty chilly out there, it is advised that you dress accordingly.
