traveller1959

We know there will be a big party on the strip. However, we are a group of people in the mid-forties and in the late-seventies, and the pictures from last year display only young people. Can someone tell us if our party will feel comfortable on the strip? Are there other ideas for spending New Year's eve in Las Vegas (besides going to a show)? How is the Freemont Street event?

tuckerdc

My LV-resident brother has talked about the fireworks exhibit..so you might want to find someplace to be a little distance from the Strip, for a good view....?

KVR

We went to the Fremont Street Experience New Year's Eve party 2002/2003. We had a blast. We were mid 30's and late 40's. There were 2 bands playing 'Love Shack" playing hits from the 80's and '.38 Special'. The street was roped off, so only people with tickets were allowed. Nobody was allowed to leave the casinos facing Freemont Street without a wrist band. Guards/officers posted everywhere. The bars were packed and took 30-45 mins to get a drink. We would do it again if we ever got the chance.

Personally, I would avoid the Strip at all costs. Too crowded and wild, but that's me.

You could also look into hotels hosting a New Years Eve party. We had previoulsy looked into the Strat. Great view of the fireworks without all the crowds, but we weren't able to go. They will be really expensive.

Try: http://www.vegas.com/newyears/

vegasnative

Both Fremont Street and the Strip will be crowded. While the media highlights the younger crowd it is certainly all ages/shapes/sizes out there. As far as feeling safe, it is VERY safe at both events. We live in Vegas and usually don't go out on New Years Eve, however my friend from Idaho just called and gues what...they are coming so it looks like I too will be braving the crowds with our guests. The Strip always does a nice fireworks show so I highly recommend going there.

traveller1959

Thank you all. If I understand right there are three options: (1) the strip, (2) Fremont Street and (3) driving up the hills to have a view over the city. Does anyone recommend a special spot for a view ? (We will stay in an apartment on W. Desert Inn Rd.)

vegasnative

Gibson/Horizon Ridge. Great views of the valley fireworks. Take I-15 South, 215 East exit Gibson, make right on Gibson about 1/2 you'll be at Horizon Ridge. Right now it is still empty desert lots, next year there will be a 5-story loft complex going up, so this will be the last year for that corner. I usually see cars getting there around 9 PM.
I live only 2 minutes from there...so I welcome you to stop by for a glass of wine if you'd like.