Well folks, here we are at the end of the decade and I have put together some New Year’s Eve Getaway Ideas to help those who are still without plans on the biggest night of the year. If you’re anything like me, you’re making your plans last minute and you need this.
I love the hype surrounding New Year’s Eve – the opportunity to dress up, sip fancy cocktails and reminisce with friends about the ups and downs of the year we leave behind. As I embark on my 32nd year on earth, I realize how different yet similar each New Year’s Eve has been. Firstly, I’ve always celebrated with loved ones, friends, my spouse, parents, or my kids. Secondly, I’ve had fun regardless! Whether I’m skating in the backyard with my kiddos and crashing on my couch at 8 p.m. or hitting up an opulent watering hole in my best dress watching the ball drop in NYC, I’ve always enjoyed myself. Lastly, I’m generally filled with hope upon entering a New Year – hope for good health, company, and happiness.
That being said, as a dedicated procrastinator and helicopter mom of two (who doesn’t like to go far), I’ve put together a few last minute New Year’s Eve getaway ideas that you may want to try.
1. Niagara Falls, Ontario
Where to stay:
Marriott Niagara Fallsview Hotel and Spa – you cannot go wrong with a gorgeous view of the falls and updated, spacious hotel rooms at an affordable rate. An added perk – this hotel is within walking distance of the Scotiabank Convention Centre, Fallsview Casino, and some of the best American-style eateries.
Where to eat:
If you’re looking to splurge on one thing during NYE in the Falls, I would recommend dining at the luxurious Ruth’s Chris Steak House. While Ruth’s Chris is a popular chain restaurant, the food never disappoints and the service is impeccable. Further, on a (possibly) chilly winter’s night, you needn’t go far as the restaurant is connected to the Fallsview casino via a glass tunnel so there’s no need to change from your snow boots to your winter heels when you finish off your steak!
What to do: Check out Niagarafallstourism.com for a complete list of activities, highly recommend the free concert in Queen Victoria Park (this year performer Bryan Adams will grace the stage) with fireworks to top off the night!
General tips:
- Opt for a medium sized bag to carry with you for the evening. Niagara Falls has a lot to offer its visitors and while you never have to travel far to the nearest attraction, it would be a shame to break a heel on a slippery sidewalk when you can easily toss them into your bag for a short jaunt; and
- Bring cash! Queen Victoria Park offers a licensed area for those who like to enjoy a few beverages as they soak in the music; additionally you will need cash on hand to enjoy the Fallsview Casino and cab drivers always prefer cash to cards.
2. Downtown Toronto, Ontario
Where to stay:
If you don’t live in the Toronto area, I highly recommend staying at the Shangri-La hotel for its luxurious décor, inspiring city views and proximity to nearby entertainment. If you’re looking for a fabulous night-in, you never have to leave your hotel as their stylish Bosk restaurant offers a five-course tasking menu and Spirit of York pop-up bar (Priced at $145.00 per person) that’s sure to leave you feeling ready to crawl into bed and enjoy the festivities from your hotel TV…..after you enjoy one last cocktail in their Lobby Lounge which is transformed into “winter wonderland” for the holidays.
Other great options for hotel stays include: The St. Regis, Fairmont Royal York, Ritz-Carlton, or the Westin Harbour Castle. Arrive nice and early to enjoy hotel amenities at these fantastic hotels. The St. Regis and Ritz-Carlton offer an impressive selection of spa services and there are still appointments available for facials and massages at both locations depending on your time of arrival.
Where to eat:
Canoe restaurant always offers an impressive New Year’s Eve multi-course tasting menu with a gorgeous panoramic view of the city from its 54th floor location. Tables are still available at a price of $165.00 per person.
If you’re looking for a hearty meal to start your night off right (before one, two, or ten cocktails), I suggest ordering up a tenderloin steak at the upscale BlueBlood Steakhouse. Its numerous awards (including Opentable’s “best date restaurants in Canada”) make it one of Toronto’s very best and not-to-miss dining experiences.
If a big juicy steak isn’t on your radar to start off a busy evening in the city, I advise trying Piano Piano. Known for its classic Italian dishes (and impressive kid’s menu), it’s warm, welcoming atmosphere will leave you longing to return.
What to do:
Where to start?? There is no shortage of activities in this great big city. Ranging in price, here’s a list of ideas you may want to try (if you have some great ideas of your own, please leave them in the comments):
- New Year’s Eve Cocktail Cruise, hosted by Mariposa Cruises; price: $89.90 per person;
- #ROMNYE – Royal Ontario Museum’s New Year’s Eve Celebration; price: $141.25 per person;
- Toronto Raptors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers; pricing varies based on seat selection;
- Skating at the Natrel Rink; price: FREE;
- Bravissimo! Opera’s Greatest Hits 2019 at Roy Thomson Hall; price: $55-$145 per person;
- Nathan Phillips Square celebration featuring DJ skating parties, live musical performances and spectacular fireworks; price: FREE (note: alcohol-free event).
General tips:
- Toronto is a busy place year-round and NYE is no exception; make a plan for your evening in advance or you’ll spend the night stuck in traffic sitting in a cab;
- Pick a hotel in a central location – you’ll be glad you did! The hotel recommendations listed above are not only breathtakingly gorgeous but also centrally located to put you in the center of the action; and
- Establish a budget and stick to it! Toronto is busy and also expensive. Hotel stays, dinners out + cocktails can add up quickly. If you don’t want to start off the new year broke, I suggest maintaining a balance between saving & splurging. When you’ve reached your maximum budget, it’s time to call it a night or find some free entertainment to round out your night.
3. Montebello, Quebec
Where to stay:
If you’ve never been to Montebello, I can assure you you’re missing out. While the town is very small, there is really no better way to enjoy the company of your loved ones than in a log cabin style resort situated in the heart of Quebec’s tranquil oasis. There aren’t many lodging options in this town aside from the stunning Fairmont Chateau Montebello. If you’re looking for a low-key New Year’s Eve to relax and refresh your soul, look no further than this spectacular resort.
Where to eat:
I strongly recommend staying on-site to eat at the elegant Aux Chantignoles (winner of the 2019 Diner’s Choice Award by Opentable). The restaurant offers an unobstructed view of the hotel grounds at nearly every table. The atmosphere is calm and the service is outstanding.
What to do:
While the hotel foyer offers a roaring fireplace with comfy couches and a pianist to liven the mood, I suggest arriving to the resort as early as possible in the day (hotel staff are generally amenable to allowing for early check-in). There is plenty to do on the grounds including, ice skating and hockey, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, dogsledding, curling, sleigh rides, and snowmobiling. If the kids aren’t in tow, you may also want to take an afternoon to relax at the resort’s award-winning spa.
General tips:
- Bring your own outdoor sporting equipment. You can rent skis, skates, snowshoes etc. on site but you’ll save some $$ by bringing along your own equipment;
- Make dinner reservations in advance. Even if you’re lodging on-site, many couples who aren’t staying at the resort travel to Montebello for the evening specifically to dine. You wouldn’t want to miss out on a fabulous dining opportunity at your own hotel because you forgot to make a reservation; and
- Dress warm! While there is plenty to do inside the hotel itself, you would be remiss not to get outside during your stay. I’m always tempted to curl up on a chair beside the fireplace and enjoy a book whenever I visit, but I force myself to bundle up and get outside to truly enjoy all that the resort has to offer.
4. Ottawa, Ontario
Where to stay:
Ottawa is home to many beautiful hotels that are centrally located in the heart of the city…that being said, I call Ottawa home so I haven’t actually stayed overnight in a hotel here. Your best bet would be the Fairmont Chateau Laurier due to its proximity to the Rideau Canal, Rideau Centre, and Parliament Hill. Other great hotels in the area include: Lord Elgin, Delta Hotel by Marriott Ottawa City Centre, and ARC the Hotel.
Where to eat:
WHERE to start…Ottawa is a foodie’s dream. There are so many farm-to-table style restaurants, Canadian fare, the list is endless – if you want it – Ottawa has it. My personal favourite restaurant is North & Navy for its northern Italian style cuisine and quaint, cozy atmosphere. Additionally, (since I love a good steak), I recommend The Shore Club for its superior service and consistently delicious steak and seafood dishes. If you can get a reservation, I recommend Riviera for its drool-worthy NYE menu (which includes roasted cod from FOGO island). Lastly, but certainly not least, I strongly suggest stopping in at Play Food & Wine for a cocktail and a sharing plate – you simply cannot go wrong in this lively atmosphere.
What to do:
If you’re staying at the Ottawa Marriott Hotel, I would recommend attending the 13th Annual New Year’s Eve Event. Tickets include a complimentary beverage, party favours, live performers and midnight champagne at a cost of $188.00 per person. If you’re looking for another exciting party that won’t disappoint, check out Ottawa NYE 2020 @ The Bourbon Room at a price of $20.00 per person ($15.00 in advance). If you’re looking to make a difference this NYE, I suggest grabbing a ticket for the Ottawa New Year’s Eve Charity Ball in support of Destiny’s Way Foundation; tickets are priced at $199.00 per person.
General tips:
- Book two nights at the least if you can. There is so much to do and see in this city, even in the winter. If food is your thing, you’ve come to the right place, if outdoor sports is your thing – take a short 10 minute drive into Quebec to hit the slopes for an afternoon or take in the baths at the nearest wellness retreat situated in heart of nature, The Nordik Spa;
- Public transit is our strong point – take advantage. There is no need to drive anywhere in Ottawa, and I would encourage you not to. I recommend traveling by plane or train, there is no need to bring your own vehicle; and
- Bring the kids! Ottawa is a family-friendly city. If you can bring an in-law along for the trip (so that you can leave your hotel on NYE), I would recommend having the kids in tow to enjoy the city together on January 1st.
5. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
Where to stay:
I can’t stress how important location is in NOTL. There are so many wineries and restaurants to choose from. It can be difficult to determine where to orient yourself to really make the most of your stay. Located in the heart of downtown with gorgeous antique interior is one of my favourites, The Prince of Wales Hotel. The hotel also features a fantastic restaurant on the lower level that you should definitely check out! Another vintage classic that I haven’t tried but hear great things about is the Pillar and Post Inn & Spa; their wine bar and lounge looks like the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a night cap.
Where to eat:
errr…where to drink? NOTL is home to a variety of wineries, many of which host their own NYE dinner parties. Wayne Gretzky Estates is hosting a three-course dinner with wine pairings, live music and more! Additionally, Peller Estate Winery will help you ring in 2020 with a special NYE cocktail reception complete with drinks and canapes, followed by a five-course tasting menu and wine pairings at a price of only $225.00 per guest.
What to do:
If dinner and drinks at a winery isn’t your style, you may want to take in the evening at Tiara Restaurant’s NYE Gala where you can enjoy music from a harpist and enjoy a four-course menu lovingly designed by Executive Chef, Marc Lyons at a price of $72 per person. Tiara Restaurant also offers a New Year’s Day Brunch at $34 pp if you can pull yourself out of bed. If you’re looking to dance and sip the night away, complete with a Traditional Clock Tower gathering at midnight, I would recommend hitting the lavishly decorated Noble Restaurant at Prince of Wales for their NYE Gala at a price of $90.00 per person.
General tips:
- Although NOTL hotels are reasonably priced this time of year there are also a variety of Airbnb rentals to choose from if you’re travelling with a larger party; and
- Bring your skates! NOTL is not just for wine and bubbly, it’s also home to a spacious 7,200 square foot outdoor rink in the heart of Niagara’s heritage district (admission is free).
Don’t forget, every year holds 365 opportunities. So whatever 2019 brought you, I sincerely hope that 2020 affords you new perspectives and purposeful direction. If you’re still looking for something to wear on NYE check out Taylor’s blog on where to find the perfect dress here.
Well done to the author. Such a content.