Las Vegas on NYE

[desifromjc]

I'm not asking about NYE parties for '08. I'm asking about Las Vegas NYE parties in general. I know the pricing is nuts, but what's an average cost for have a good time (nothing outlandish)? What's the atmosphere like? What clubs were good last year?

We're coming on NYE '08, so I just wanted some background on the pricing so I know how much I realistically need to put away.

[leftymo]

Well, I'm a 3 year vegas new years vet (not much), but most reg's will tell you to stay away from the clubs on new years.

In fact, since it falls on a monday, its best to stick to the clubs earlier on the weekend.

Club prices are jacked up, presale tickets range from 60 (LOW END) to 200+ (pure, tao, etc...)

They offer free cocktails but good luck finding them, or getting to the so called open bar.

My advice is to definitely do the street thing for new years, and then somehow migrate to a lounge. We've done that for a couple years and its been MUCH better than a club.

[greenie]

Completely agree with lefty's comments.

What bugs me the most about Vegas clubs on NYE is not so much the cost (a close second) but rather the crowds. For such a high premium you would hope that the clubs would resist the urge to pack you shoulder-to-shoulder, chest-to-back, but it's sardine city. If you spring for a table it helps, but forget trying to mingle about.

Also note that the highest costs and crowds are for the primetime clubs (10p-4a). To get your clubbing fix on NYE my recommendation is to spend the money on a table at an afterhours spot instead. The music will be better, the people will be better, and you'll actually have move to dance. For less money. Set yourself up with some swank dinner reservations, enjoy the midnight countdown outside on the Strip, and head to the club around 3.

All this said, if you're looking to do a primetime club be prepared to drop at least $150-200 and spend an hour or more in line. That's assuming you get in line around 9:30; the later you arrive, the longer your wait.

[desifromjc]

Thanks for the comments guys. I've never been to the posh clubs in Vegas (i.e. Pure, Tao, etc) so I'm thinking I might do those during the day's leading up to NYE and then do something a bit cheaper on NYE like Empire. Who knows..but I'll def. come back with a few more questions once the date gets closer.