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Things to do on New Year's Eve in San Diego, how to get home safely for free

From early family-friendly festivities to late-night parties and dinner specials, San Diego has it all and there are plenty of ways to get home safely.

SAN DIEGO — There are countless ways to ring in the New Year across San Diego County.

From early family-friendly festivities, to late-night parties and dinner specials, San Diego has it all and there are plenty of ways to get home safely. 

That's why San Diego's biggest public transportation provider, MTS is partnering with the North County Transit District. Both agencies are extending their services and offering free rides on New Year's Eve.

"It is important to make travel plans to get home safely and responsibly," Stephen Whitburn said, from the Metropolitan Transit System.

The agencies are using their power for good and offering free rides from the South Bay to North County, starting at 6 p.m., until after the bars close at 2 a.m.

"Hop on the coaster, sprinter, or any breeze bus and enjoy a free ride, anywhere we go," Jewel Edson said, from NCTD.

San Diego Police, the Sheriff's Department, Caltrans and California Highway Patrol are all sharing the same important message.

"Driving impaired can be dangerous and have deadly consequences. A DUI can cost up to $15,000. Don't make a decision you could regret the rest of your life."

NYE in San Diego

So make your plan in 2023 and execute it in 2024, because there's a lot going on!

"This event is glitz and glam," Britton Green said, from the Hard Rock Hotel.

The Hard Rock Hotel in the Gaslamp has been a go-to spot to ring in the New Year for 16 years.

"We want people to dress up, and have fun - pop champagne at your table," Green added.

You can expect 4,000 people to fill three levels of the hotel, all with different themes.15 DJ's, a countdown clock and a ball drop.

"Frankie V and Gina the Latina will be on stage, so that will be a fun surprise," he said.

It starts at 9 pm. Tickets are $99 and $125 on Sunday. 

Right next door at Petco Park will be the electronic music festival crossed. We also found cruises around the bay, with prices starting at $75.

And you can be sure, just about every restaurant is also offering a special, usually a prix fixe multi-course meal. 

  • Mister A’s will cost you $175. 
  • George's at the Cove is $120 and you'll get a glass of champagne at midnight. 
  • Queen Bee’s Arts and Cultural Center in North Park will lead lively salsa and bachata classes into the New Year, starting at $35.

If you have little ones, head to The Plunge at Belmont Park. A balloon drop is set for 12 p.m. Close by, you can catch fireworks at SeaWorld from 7 to 9 pm.

WATCH: NYE Forecast

Before You Leave, Check This Out