Last-Minute and Local Ideas to Welcome 2011 in Arnold

New Year's Eve has been called the biggest party night of the year. If you're still looking for the right place to celebrate this year, consider visiting one of Arnold's many local businesses. From family-friendly fun to more mature celebrations, a variety of local celebrations will offer something for everyone on New Year's Eve.

Arnold Bowl

If you're looking for a family-friendly place to celebrate, consider , 1140 Jeffco Boulevard. This year, the bowling alley is offering a number of New Year's Eve packages.

Families with children and teens will enjoy the Cosmic Bowl package, which features an all-you-can-bowl lane, shoe rental, a large one-topping pizza and a pitcher of soda. This package is valid for up to six people and runs from 4-7 p.m.

"We're a family-oriented place and we try to do a lot for the kids. The Cosmic Bowl package is a nice way for families to celebrate New Year's Eve," said Arnold Bowl manager Robin Czarnecki. "Once the kids have gone home, the more adult events will start."

Arnold Bowl is also offering a couple of more "grown up" packages for those who want to ring in the new year at midnight. The Rent-a-Lane package runs from 8:30 p.m. until midnight, and includes an all-you-can-bowl lane, shoe rentals for up to six people and party favors for $75. Rent-a-Lane customers will also be served champagne at midnight. 

The 910 No-Tap Tournament is $25 per person and runs from 9 p.m. to midnight. This package includes champagne at midnight and party favors.

For more information on Arnold Bowl's New Year's Eve packages, call 636-296-9900.

54th Street Grill

Looking for something a little more laid-back? Try the , 2236 Michigan Ave.

Kaitlyn Mackey, an employee who identified herself as an Express-to-Go Runner, said that while there are no special events happening on New Year's Eve at 54th Street Grill, the restaurant will be open and staff will be ready to offer local celebrants a delicious meal and an enjoyable dining experience.

"I worked last year and it was pretty slow, so customers won't have a hard time finding a table," Mackey said.

For more information on the 54th Street Grill, call 636-287-8954.

Dylan's Sports Bar & Grill

If you like a casually fun environment where you can save a few bucks, , 675 Jeffco Boulevard, might be the ideal party destination for you this year.

Dylan's, named for the owner's eldest grandson, hosts karaoke on Friday nights, and features a state-of-the-art ventilation system that allows the bar to host smokers. The non-smoking section is often used for private parties, and Dylan's runs happy-hour specials from 4-7 p.m., and then again from 10 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Dylan's owner Amy Gaffron said that the bar will offer a special New Year's Eve package, games and a number of other special amenities for the evening. The package is $40 per person in advance (or $50 per person at the door) and includes draught beer, well cocktail drinks, and a champaign toast at midnight. Karaoke will be served up by "The Rickster" and starts at nine, and patrons will enjoy a happy hour buffet with appetizers.

"We have designated drivers and taxi services available," Gaffron said. "We encourage people to get a designated driver or to let us know if they can't find one so we can help them get home safely."

For more information about Dylan's, call 636-296-3831.

Bambino's Restaurant & Bar

Looking for a cozy place to take your sweetheart for a romantic New Year's Eve celebration? , 3601 Commerce Drive, could be just the ticket.

Owner Mike Hotkin said Bambino's will feature a special menu for New Year's Eve.  Bambino's offers delicious authentic Italian dishes, friendly staff and reasonably priced drinks.

For more information about Bambino's, call 636-282-1100.