The Lanesborough Is Ready For 2019. Credit: The Lanesborough
2019 may be quickly approaching, but there’s still time to plan an end-of-year getaway you’ll never forget. From the chicest house party in London to a symphonic celebration in Phoenix to a musically themed ’80s rewind party with a performance by a teen pop idol, these seven sensational properties are ringing in the New Year in style.
The Lanesborough
Sleek, sultry and glamorous, the New Year’s Eve House Party at this posh Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star property is going to be a celebration of epic proportions. For the first time, this venerated establishment is closing its doors to throw an unforgettable fete in collaboration with Moët & Chandon, complete with DJs, a live jazz band, a gourmet buffet by the property’s renowned chef Steeven Gilles and a cigar bar presided over by the hotel’s team of cigar sommeliers.
Book The Lanesborough’s New Year’s Eve Stay package for access to the exclusive House Party and a slew of other perks, like an aperitif upon arrival, a blowout or manicure before the festivities, breakfast, a massage for two on New Year’s Day and guaranteed late checkout on January 2.
Wright’s at the Biltmore. Credit: Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
For fabulous weather and a healthy dose of culture, close things out at this stunning art deco resort. An architectural gem designed by Frank Lloyd Wright student Albert Chase McArthur in the late 1920s, the property sits on 39 lush acres of botanical gardens, golf courses and pools.
Soak up the last of 2018’s rays at this Phoenix property before donning your elegant cocktail attire for the grand New Year’s Gala, a fabulous gathering filled with cocktails, a three-course dinner and dancing alongside a live performance by the Phoenix Symphony.
Other options for ringing in the new year include a history tour and four-course menu at Wright’s at the Biltmore and a family-friendly surf-and-turf dinner at Frank & Albert’s.
And don’t forget about the Recovery Brunch at Wright’s, inclusive of a bloody mary or mimosa to help cure that traditional January 1 hangover.
Le Bonne Entente. Credit: Le Bonne Entente
Le Bonne Entente
Escape to the winter wonderland of picturesque Quebec with a stay at this Four-Star suburban resort. By day, explore the majestic chateaus and architecture of the city’s historic quarter before returning to the cozy hotel for an evening of revelry.
Celebrate with a bottomless Louis Roederer champagne- and canapes-filled cocktail hour, followed by a scrumptious seven-course menu, dancing and yet another glass of bubbles at the stroke of midnight.
The Beverly Hills Hotel’s Pool. Credit: Niall Clutton
The Beverly Hills Hotel
If you’re looking for a sunny backdrop for singing “Auld Lang Syne,” this storied Five-Star SoCal retreat is a wonderful place for it. Luxurious and picturesque, the rose-colored hue of the property will make chronicling your journey a joy.
Greet 2019 with an exquisite four-course prix fixe menu in Forbes Travel Guide Recommended The Polo Lounge (red-carpet-worthy offerings include truffle quail eggs, scallop and caviar, and kobe New York strip steak) followed by tantalizing tipples and live music from DJ W and soul singer Jonah Smith in Bar Nineteen12.
Or, if you’d rather head off property, rest assured that the concierge will have no problem scoring entry to the hottest parties in L.A.
So, plan the perfect outfit for hobnobbing with Hollywood celebs, then book the Festive Season at The Beverly Hills Hotel package for perks such as welcome drinks on arrival, a $100 daily breakfast credit and a $100 hotel voucher to use as you please. Just remember to pack your shades and a swimsuit, because the pool is a must and you’ll want to work on your tan.
Inn Walden. Credit: Inn Walden
Inn Walden
To end the year on a romantic note, leave the big-city bustle behind and head to Ohio’s great Western Reserve, where you’ll find this Henry David Thoreau-inspired inn. A suburban oasis about 30 miles outside of Cleveland, this secluded Four-Star resort’s end-of-year package was designed for those who want to cuddle under the confetti.
Featuring a choice of four suite types and several amenities meant to titillate and seduce (see: a bottle of bubbles on arrival and turndown service with chocolate-covered strawberries), the holiday special is meant to spark lasting memories.
To ensure this happens, we advise you and your loved one to dress to the nines for the hotel’s black-tie-optional New Year’s Eve festivities. The night begins with a five-course gourmet dinner at The Barn that’s served with a side of live music and dancing. We’ll just call the champagne-accompanied countdown and toast at midnight your dessert.
MGM National Harbor. Credit: Papercamera Photography and Tracey Brown
MGM National Harbor
For a grandiose affair that’s guaranteed to be over the top, head to this glitzy Washington, D.C., resort on December 31. The 308-room hotel — with a 3,000-seat theater, an 11-room spa and a 125,000-square-foot casino — will be a hub for sophisticated shenanigans the whole holiday break.
In the theater, enjoy an ’80s-themed extravaganza with an open bar and music from retro tribute band The Reflex and former teen idol Tiffany. Foodies will be spoiled for choice of celebrity chef, prix fixe dinners at Fish by José Andrés and Voltaggio Brothers Steak House.
Party-goers who prefer spirits over sirloins have a choice, too: a Dom Pérignon-sponsored event at Felt or table service and live music at Blossom cocktail lounge.
Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa. Credit: Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa
Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa
Crystal-clear pools, spaciously luxurious accommodations and a bustling, 71,000-square-foot gaming floor are just a few of the reasons to check into this Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Palm Springs property this New Year’s Eve.
From 9 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. December 31, Agua Caliente will turn its casino into a huge party with a Totally Awesome ’80s New Year’s Eve Bash. A DJ will spin throwback tunes and food and drink specials will run all night, with a pause as the clock approaches midnight.
