L.A.'s Top 7 New Year's Destinations

1000 Universal Studios Blvd, Universal City, CA 91608 (map)

This annual family-friendly event will be having its popular outdoor countdowns beginning at 9pm with live music and lots of great people-watching. Best of all, it's free! (Just try to arrive early--parking can get crazy.)

6608 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028 (map)

For over-the-top Vegas style fun, the Kress is the place to be. The enormous, four-floor art deco building will host an all-night soiree with various packages. General admission is $125 (including open bar), $200 VIP tickets (access to all floors, including the rooftop, which will serve food) and other packages available. Call or check online for more details.

401 E Shoreline Dr, Long Beach, CA 90802 (map)

It's first come, first served at this always popular Long Beach beer bar (located right on the Shoreline pier) which makes it ideal for last-minute plans and spontaneous soirees. More locations in Pasadena and O.C.

800 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015 (map)

One of the most anticipated openings (and parties) of the year, the famous Conga Room will ring in 2009 with true Latin sizzle as the Gipsy Kings play live to hundreds of people at this hot new nightlife venue. General admission $150, VIP Section $200 and VIP Luchador or VIP Orchestra seat $225.

9010 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069 (map)

This chic, low-key Melrose eatery has recently caught the attention of celebs, and for New Year's Eve, they're offering folks the chance for an A-list affair. Guests can enjoy a five-course prix-fixe Italian dinner with complimentary Champagne toast at midnight. Seatings at 7pm and 10pm, starting at $85 per person.

6300 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028 (map)

For the first time ever, Katsuya and S Bar have teamed up to ring in the new year in true Hollywood fashion. Guests can enjoy the connected spaces all night long with two DJs spinning, sushi and other delectables and unlimited cocktails. Black and white attire suggested, $200 per person.

1150 Hermosa Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 (map)

Located in the heart of downtown Hermosa Beach, this stylish and lively dining spot restaurant is surrounded with floor-to-ceiling windows, so New Year's Eve guests will have a great view of all the action on Pier Plaza. There will be three seatings (walk-ins welcome, too) with a full dinner priced at just $39 to $49 (with filet mignon).

700 W Ball Rd, Anaheim, CA 92802 (map)

Who wouldn't want to ring in the new year at the Happiest Place on Earth?Mickey and friends will be toasting in 2009 in true family style with live bands, party favors and the most fantastic fireworks display in town! Best of all, the park is staying open till 2am, so you can "coast" along long after the clock strikes 12.

3252 Mission Inn Ave, Riverside, CA 92507 (map)

This fun two-level destination is getting the party started early at 6:30pm with a five-course dinner and flamenco or rumba dancing. Prices range from $69 per person to $99 per person for the Midnight Celebration.