Tired of the same old New Year’s Eve plans? You know the ones — overpriced champagne at a crowded bar, shouting “Happy New Year!” at exactly 12:00:03 because your timing is bad, and scrambling to find your Uber in the freezing cold. Let’s shake it up this year!
Central Ohio has plenty of quirky, fun, and downright unique ways to ring in 2025 (and no, it doesn’t involve singing only the first 10 words “Auld Lang Syne” with strangers before everyone starts mumbling because they don’t know how the rest of the song goes).
So here’s your ultimate guide to celebrating New Year’s Eve with a little flair, a lot of fun, and minimal regret.
1. Go to the Disco… In the Woods!
940 S Hempstead Rd, Westerville, OH 43081
If you think New Year’s Eve requires glitz and glamour, think again. Inniswood Metro Gardens is where serenity meets sparkle. Take an evening stroll through the beautiful, quiet trails and keep your eyes peeled for the pièce de résistance: an outdoor disco ball smack in the middle of the woods. Yes, you read that right. An outdoor disco ball. Who needs Times Square when you’ve got reflective magic dangling from the trees? Bundle up, grab some cocoa, and vibe your way into the new year.
2. Bowl Your Way to 2025
8655 Lyra Dr, Columbus, OH 43240
Not into the whole “fancy soirée” vibe? Lace up those hideous bowling shoes and hit the lanes instead. Bowling might sound like a low-key option, but it’s secretly a blast, especially when you bring along a group of family or friends. My family used to bowl on New Years Eve (spoiler: none of us are good… Wii Bowling is more our speed), but it’s the kind of chaos that creates core memories.
Check out Star Lanes Polaris, which is basically TopGolf but for bowling. It’s got fancy drinks, a modern vibe, and all the cool extras. Or, if you’re feeling nostalgic, stick to classic rules and try your best to break 100. Whether you’re a pro or the gutter ball king, you’re guaranteed laughs all night long.
3. High Stakes at Hollywood Casino or Scioto Downs
Holiday Casino: 200 Georgesville Rd, Columbus, OH 43228
Eldorado Scioto Downs: 6000 S High St, Columbus, OH 43207
If you’ve got a little bit of a gambling streak — and the self-control not to bet the rent —head to Hollywood Casino or Eldorado Scioto Downs Racino for a fancy dinner, some casino games, and a night that feels straight out of a Bond movie (shaken martini optional).
My strategy at the casino? Treat my New Year’s budget like the minutes on a cell phone from 2003: none of it rolls over, so why not put it all on black? (Disclaimer: this is not actual financial advice. Please gamble responsibly.)
4. Escape Reality at Sandbox VR
6737 Longshore St #130, Dublin, OH 43017
Does New Year’s Eve stress you out? The pressure of resolutions, the big countdown, the random stranger who insists on a hug? Skip all of that and dive into Sandbox VR, where you can save the world, fight zombies, or even try to survive the Squid Games. Yes, somehow these games are less anxiety-inducing than figuring out how you’re getting home from a crowded NYE party. Plus, you’ll end the night feeling like a hero instead of wondering why you thought tequila shots at midnight were a good idea.
5. Stay Cozy with a Night In
Your home <3
Okay, so this isn’t technically “unique,” but there’s no shame in keeping things chill. Queue up your favorite movies, order takeout from a local favorite (maybe an entire pizza for yourself from Sexton’s or a Crunchwrap from Crunchwerks), and toast the new year in your coziest pajamas. You’ll thank yourself when you wake up without a hangover on January 1.