New Year's Eve: Anywhere But Times Square Edition

Sure, you could go to Times Square to watch the ball drop. But that would involve a lengthy commute, standing in the cold for hours on end, unruly crowds, and other unpleasantries. (In fact, it sounds a lot like this.)

Instead, why not take advantage of festivities in the outer boroughs? Here are our Top 5 New Year's Eve Plans if you want to...

1. ...Get to bed early: While the Monday-Tuesday holiday means a long weekend for some, others around the city still have to get up for work on January 1. Take it easy, order in, and indulge with a classic New Year's Eve film based in New York. "When Harry Met Sally," "200 Cigarettes," or "Money Train," anyone?

2. ...Do something selfless: Check out the 'Hot Projects' page on New York Cares to find out what nonprofit events still need volunteers, including for Sandy Relief efforts. As of press time, 'Muck Out Homes in the Rockaways' meetups in the Brooklyn and Queens area for Dec. 31 were still in need of extra hands.

3. ...Spend some time in the garden: That is, Bohemian Hall (29-19 24th Ave.), Astoria's beer garden. For $115, attendees will get buffets, open bar and dance music to ring in the new year.

4. ...Kick off 2013 in the company of some Handsome Little Devils: Queens Theatre in the Park will present "Handsome Little Devils in the Squirm Burpee Circus." This family-friendly event provides and evening of slapstick comedy.

5. ...Watch some fireworks! Who needs the harbor! Grand Army Plaza will be the site of Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz' fireworks spectacular—featuring an array of jaw-dropping, awe-inducing, thunderous pyrotechnics to put Times Square on notice. (We're Brooklyn, we go hard.)

Plus, free hot chocolate and sparkling cider! Festivities will begin at 11 p.m. Best fireworks viewing spots are from anywhere in Grand Army Plaza, inside the Park on the West Drive, and along Prospect Park West between Grand Army Plaza and 9th Street.