Few places radiate energy quite like New Years Eve 2026 in Grinnell, iowa, USA does when the countdown begins You’re not just standing by — you breathe it in, let it flow through you, and let it echo past midnight. Let’s highlight the essence of NYE 2026 in this incredible city.
Unmissable Spots to See the 2026 Fireworks Show in Grinnell, iowa, USA
There’s something in the closing moments of December 31st in Grinnell, iowa, USA brings an undeniable energy to the air. The energy begins to evolve—crowds slowly form, talking picks up, and the final moments energy builds quietly. What truly amplifies the moment is knowing that, nestled in unexpected places, certain areas make the experience feel even more intimate and lasting.
People who know the city well tend to gather in familiar open spaces where the view of the night sky is spacious and unhindered. These aren’t always the most obvious places, but they’re well-known among those who have spent previous NYEs here. These vantage points become crowd magnets long before the countdown begins, occupied by groups laughing together, tunes playing, and maybe even a flask of warm drinks. There’s something magical about being side by side with unknown faces, watching the sky light up—it becomes a sensation, not just a view.
This sky won’t wait — get the best seats for NYE 2026’s most unforgettable show. CLICK HERE
For a perspective only city veterans usually enjoy, you might want to book an experience curated by people who know the city who know the ideal locations the best vistas can be found. Whether it’s somewhere above the crowds, a tucked-away corner, or a front-row view of the skyline, the best way to feel the experience is by being where the real action is. A few experiences even offer live performances, snacks, and cozy spots—ideal for taking in the New Years Eve vibe in Grinnell, iowa, USA your own way.
What to Do in Grinnell, iowa, USA for New Year’s Eve 2026
New Year’s Energy in the Streets of Grinnell, iowa, USA
As December comes to a close, Grinnell, iowa, USA gradually embraces the energy of festivity. Once-peaceful avenues now brim with happy locals and eager travelers, longing for the vibe of year-end festivity. Festive lights sparkle above old streets, cafés spill over with laughter, and that electric energy intensifies as the night progresses. Even while roaming historic paths or a break in a cozy nook, there’s a gentle joy in the air you can instantly feel.
Things Everyone Can Enjoy
From casual explorers to seasoned adventurers, all types of travelers can discover something worthwhile in Grinnell, iowa, USA holiday offering. You can take part in a local sightseeing tour to check out iconic attractions, or wander through festive bazaars that keep buzzing after dark, alive with craft treasures, music, and festive bites. Many visitors also appreciate guided cultural walks that weave together local stories, iconic buildings, and tradition—perfect for soaking in the city’s essence before the countdown. For a smoother adventure, consider joining a carefully organized route that maintains the vibe and avoids the chaos.
Family-Friendly Options
Fireworks fade. Laughter echoes. Craft a memory that lasts beyond the new year.
Traveling as a family? Grinnell, iowa, USA has plenty of options to delight every age—without needing a strict itinerary. Many cultural centers and hands-on displays welcome visitors during the year-end period, offering learning moments for everyone from toddlers to grown-ups. Some parks host min-carnivals, complete with food stalls and soft attractions. Marine exhibits, animal centers, or festive puppet performances are also great picks for small children. It’s a favorite routine for families to end the day with a low-key meal nearby or a short casual walk before ending the night.
New Year’s Magic for Romantic Travelers
This isn’t about going somewhere. It’s about arriving—with the right person. Unlock the Moment Here.
Romantic travelers arriving in Grinnell, iowa, USA will find an abundance of meaningful moments ready to unfold. Sharing a private dinner with skyline views is always unforgettable, but there’s something just as intimate about walking along the water or hopping on a retro ride late into the night. Several parts of town host evening performances or outdoor spaces—perfect places to enjoy a quiet moment and good conversation, in a more peaceful setting.
Cultural Touches You Won’t Find in the Guidebooks
Don’t just watch the celebration—become part of a story that’s been told for generations. CLICK HERE
The true magic of Grinnell, iowa, USA during year’s end lies in its rare combination of cultural oddities and traditional festivities.
Some areas light up with local festivities featuring local music and heritage steps, while other districts ring in midnight with block-style celebrations full of spirit and surprise. Be ready to find snack vendors with rare seasonal menus, or encounter creative pop-ups unfolding in unexpected places. And if chance is on your side, you could score a sudden spot at a hidden performance that wasn’t even on your list.
Under-the-Radar Places & Tips from Locals in Grinnell, iowa, USA
Spots Loved by Locals, Skipped by Tourists
These aren’t featured in
quiet gems in glossy travel brochures. Ask a local where they hang out after dark, and you’ll get a totally different version of Grinnell, iowa, USA. Think about a café tucked into a back alley with no menu at all. Regular tourists miss them entirely — and that’s why they remain pure.
Skip the brochures. Follow a local into the quiet corners of Grinnell, iowa, USA.
Secret Viewpoints and Quiet Corners for NYE Magic
When you wander with intent, you’ll find hidden corners in Grinnell, iowa, USA, where the celebration feels one-on-one. No people pushing, no noisy timer, no frenzy — just you and a corner of the city that almost no one finds. Locals might quietly mention a hidden edge of the river, a sacred overlook, or a quiet floor of an old library. They’re off the radar of most travelers — but when you see it, it stays.
Authentic Markets and Hidden Food Stalls in Grinnell, iowa, USA
Some of the best food in Grinnell, iowa, USA hides behind curtains of steam and crowds of locals. They don’t have a website or Instagram — just a line of hungry regulars who’ve been coming for years. A place where they remember your taste instantly. It never tastes the same, and that’s the beauty.
Skip the restaurant. Join the tour that takes you to places with no menu — just magic.
Midnight Moments Only Locals Know
Travelers crowd the crowded hotspots — but locals move quietly to different corners. What makes New Year’s Eve special in Grinnell, iowa, USA takes place within local streets, quiet plazas,
where old customs are still alive.
Forget the flash — this is about taste, voices, and warmth that doesn’t need staging.
Hidden Museums, Art Spaces & Indie Culture Spots
Museums are quiet — but the indie circuit? It buzzes. You might unexpectedly find a late-night music session in an attic, or an old cinema showing outlawed reels from years long gone. It’s the kind of culture that doesn’t care if you’re watching.
Skip the gift shops. Here’s where real culture lives — start exploring now.
Quick Nature Breaks Close to the Action
People tend to miss how close quiet can be when youre in the middle of the city noise. But in Grinnell, iowa, USA, serene spots are closer than expected. Whether its a shady green space, a lakeside bench, or a silent path through trees — the tranquility is real, and closer than youd think.
Insider Tips Only Locals Would Tell You
Each place has its own myths, but the best of Grinnell, iowa, USA isn’t clickable. Shared from elder to kid, offered to those who ask kindly. They’ll tell you where to stand to hear echoing fireworks, or where the drums echo strongest. There’s no URL for that, but the streets may show you when you least expect.
Underrated Fireworks Views for New Year’s Eve 2026 in Grinnell, iowa, USA
The magic of underrated New Year’s Eve spots in Grinnell, iowa, USA is how subtly they steal your breath. No huge audience, no countdown scream, just a city view lit for you. You stand still, while the buildings flicker below, feeling something shift to the quiet. These spots don’t beg for attention — and that’s why they do. The loud moments fade, but the quiet hits different.
Movie-Worthy Nights Locals Actually Live
The buzz fades and whispers its truth in the late hours. You could stumble on acoustic music by the river on the plaza, or see locals sharing drinks next to food stalls. You skip the camera since youre lost in the moment being part of it.
Best NYE Dinner Spots in Grinnell, iowa, USA for Lovers & Families
Think of golden lights hugging evening windows, elegant piano in the air, and every course presented like art. Grinnell, iowa, USA brings this fantasy to life every NYE — whether you’re holding hands across the table with a special someone, or smiling with loved ones over after-dinner delights. It’s not just dinner — it’s a cinematic close you carry into the next year.
Where to Enjoy a Romantic NYE Dinner for Two
When the sun begins to set, the idea of elevated feasting to end the year with someone special feels just right. Grinnell, iowa, USA offers elegant venues perfect for two — from sky-high dining spaces to sunset-facing tables. Make this New Year’s Eve about soft music, unforgettable moments, and a table worth remembering.
Romantic venues are almost gone — secure your skyline table before it’s too late.
Where to Celebrate NYE with the Whole Family
Celebration doesn’t always mean noise — that magic lives in the laughter over a communal meal. All across Grinnell, iowa, USA, you’ll find eateries built for shared joy where families gather for countdowns over pizza, comfort food, or dishes that make kids smile.NYE dinner like this becomes something you’ll want to do again.
Popular spots don’t last long — lock it in and serve joy to everyone at the table.
Unforgettable Ways to Dine on New Year’s Eve
Sometimes even the best year-end celebrations must be held indoors — in Grinnell, iowa, USA, open-air meals often steal the show. Think oceanfront flames, cliffside cooking, or forest banquets beneath the night sky. This city proves that if you’re craving something different, the right meal will mark the end of your year perfectly.
Reserve a table with a view you’ll remember forever — unique NYE dining spots are selling out fast.
New Year’s Eve Dining Spots with Explosive Views
There’s nothing quite like watching fireworks explode right at your table. Throughout Grinnell, iowa, USA, some restaurants and rooftops offer the kind of view that turns your meal into a full-blown event. Not all seats are created equal when fireworks take over the sky, especially for a front-row sky show. Choose wisely, and you’ll enjoy front-row city lights as the countdown hits. The best view tables don’t last long — they get claimed in minutes, not hours. That’s why smart travelers book early and demand skyline seating.
Dine by the Water: Floating NYE Spots You’ll Love
Picture fireworks in your glass, waves beside your feet, and dinner under moonlight. Some cities roll out dinner yachts with string quartets and skyline views. In Grinnell, iowa, USA, it could be a beachfront table with candlelight and fire dancers in the distance. What matters most isn’t the vessel, it’s the view.
Don’t miss your chance to dine over water while fireworks light up the sky — book now.
Pro Tips for Scoring the Ideal NYE Table in Grinnell, iowa, USA
Booking a New Year’s Eve dinner might sound simple, but in Grinnell, iowa, USA, timing is everything.Scenic spots, kid-friendly hours, or romantic hideouts — they don’t last long.Don’t settle for leftovers — make smart moves.
Book Early — Like, Really Early
Don’t wait — book that table now, especially if you want a table with a view or an intimate setting. Waiting until December? That’s risky, you’re probably out of luck.
Pick the Experience Before the Restaurant
Decide on the experience you want, whether it’s a breezy terrace, a family-style feast, or a laid-back dinner by the water.
Don’t Be Shy, Demand That View
Always ask for a fireworks view — literally, because the best seats go silent if you don’t speak up. Type it in the notes.
Pick the Right Time Slot
Pick the right time slot, because dining too soon kills the countdown thrill, but you risk missing the main event.
Plan for the Unexpected — and Get It in Writing
Always check the cancellation policy, in case plans shift. Protect your wallet — and your appetite.
Be Loud About Allergies, Needs, and Restrictions
Let them know if you’re vegan, gluten-free, or picky, because chefs need prep time, and surprises aren’t festive.
Style Matters — Even by the Beach
Look sharp, even for beachside seats, because it’s NYE — not a Tuesday dinner. Style = mood booster.
Reconfirm the Reservation Like a Pro
Confirm everything — twice, especially guest count. One small miss ruins the big night.
Secure the Way There — and Back
Lock in your transport early, because you don’t want to walk 3km in heels. Transport’s part of the magic too.
Choose a Table That Comes With a Story
Pick somewhere unforgettable, whether it’s a surprise course. NYE happens once a year — make it count.
Great nights start with one decision — reserve your NYE seat today before the best views are gone.
Massive NYE Countdown Events & City Celebrations in Grinnell, iowa, USA
What sets Grinnell, iowa, USA apart on NYE truly unique goes beyond the fireworks or even the performances—it’s the shared feeling of unity as the whole city counts as one From tourists filming on their phones to families cheering with joy, each expression reveals emotion of pure happiness That’s the reason travelers return year after year—not just for the fireworks, but for that irreplaceable feeling of being part of something bigger
Where to Be When the Clock Strikes Midnight in Grinnell, iowa, USA
When midnight approaches, there’s only one hotspot that matters, and that’s the official celebration center. Every year, a wave of locals and visitors pack the plaza for an electrifying celebration. The performers are top-tier, with live anthems that turn the city into a living rhythm. As the final seconds tick away, the stage erupts in fireworks, ushering in a fresh beginning with pure euphoria. This isn’t just a concert—it’s a rite of passage for NYE lovers.
The Most Popular Places to Celebrate NYE with the Masses in Grinnell, iowa, USA
When midnight approaches, you can truly soak in the excitement than by standing with the masses at the most iconic celebration zones. Open plazas, downtown streets, and waterfront parks turn into the heartbeat of the shared experience, where masses gather shoulder-to-shoulder for an unforgettable citywide moment. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s beautiful in its chaos.
No-Ticket Needed: Enjoy Live Music & Light Shows Across the City
Big celebrations don’t always come with a price tag—especially in Grinnell, iowa, USA. A string of pop-up music stages emerge across the city, featuring rising performers and community showcases. Even without spending a dime, you’ll get front-row vibes to fireworks and sound systems that shake the block. The city literally lights up in laser visuals synced to music, adding extra sparkle to the streets of Grinnell, iowa, USA.
Here’s a list of the best free events lighting up the city on NYE.
Best Places to Feel the Energy Without Paying a Dime
Sometimes, the real magic happens where admission costs absolutely nothing. From neighborhood squares and wide-open promenades, you’ll find spots where the energy is high and the views are even better. They’re hidden gems that tourists rarely find, where you’re free to just *feel* the city come alive. If you want the vibe without the price, these are the places to remember.
Explore the real-deal crowd zones that don’t charge a dime but deliver big.
Hotel Guide: Where to Stay in Grinnell, iowa, USA During New Year’s Eve
Hotel rates in Grinnell, iowa, USA skyrocket as NYE approaches, especially without checking promos early. Several guests missed out on top picks because they booked too late. Smart tip: act before it’s too late.
🎇 Rooms with skyline views sell out fast— Secure your stay now.
Where to Sleep Steps Away from the NYE Buzz in Grinnell, iowa, USA
Choosing the right neighborhood to stay in Grinnell, iowa, USA can strongly impact your New Year’s Eve plan. Some parts of town are just steps away from major countdown venues and pyro shows. Which makes it simple to move, celebrate, and head home without hassle.
A lot of guests who checked in just a few minutes from the main square in Grinnell, iowa, USA say it changed their whole NYE experience. Avoiding the crazy traffic and staying within walking distance allowed many spend the night with ease. That convenience often makes a big impact for NYE travelers.
🏨 Avoid traffic and stress— stay near the countdown and celebrate with ease.
Accommodations in the best NYE areas of Grinnell, iowa, USA get booked quickly. People want to be near the pyro show, countdown concerts, and city events. So your safest choice is to reserve ahead of time and be nearby.
Hotels in Grinnell, iowa, USA That Let You Watch Fireworks from the Rooftop
Each year, tons of celebrants in Grinnell, iowa, USA choose accommodations that let them soak in the moment without leaving the building. Watching the sky light up from a rooftop bar feels like a VIP experience.
Top-view accommodations in Grinnell, iowa, USA get taken several days—sometimes even before December hits. Options are limited, booking traffic spikes, and rooms disappear fast.
🔥 These rooms go fast—secure your private NYE sky show today.
Low-Cost Hotels in Grinnell, iowa, USA That Keep You Close to the NYE Buzz
Most budget-conscious guests prefer to spend more on activities and less on where they sleep. That’s why value accommodations near key NYE areas are so consistently booked every New Year’s.
The top affordable stays in Grinnell, iowa, USA get snapped up fast during the New Year’s rush. Reserving ahead can mean the difference between being nearby or being stuck outside the action from the countdown.
💸 NYE doesn’t have to be expensive — Click Here to Find Budget Stays Near the Celebration.
Where to Find the Best Hotel Discounts for New Year’s Eve 2026 in Grinnell, iowa, USA
Seasoned tourists know the top New Year’s deals don’t stay on the table for long. The prime locations often appear through limited-timer promos in the days before NYE.
Countdown season deals are live right now in Grinnell, iowa, USA, but they won’t stick around. Reserving now might be your last opportunity at getting near the fireworks without paying premium prices.
🎆 Want to wake up near the fireworks? Click NOW to book your promo stay.
What You Need to Know Before Reserving a NYE 2026 in Grinnell, iowa, USA Hotel
Savvy visitors who grab great NYE deals usually reserve early. Delaying your booking often means less flexibility, greater distance from the venue, or higher costs.
Several simple tricks can make your hotel planning much easier and more affordable. Avoid price tracking, reserve ahead, and choose weekdays if you can
Top NYE Experiences & Discounted Tours in Grinnell, iowa, USA
No need to panic about what to do on NYE in Grinnell, iowa, USA — we’ve done the digging for you. We’ve curated a collection of holiday specials and hidden gems that mix festive vibes with great prices. Whether you’re looking for midnight cruises, local tasting journeys, or hidden gems most tourists never reach — Grinnell, iowa, USA has something for all styles of traveler.Visualize walking slowly through Grinnell, iowa, USA on the final night of the year, accompanied by a local expert who understands the city’s best-kept spots. Each step comes with a narrative, each view with a moment — that’s what makes these tours on another level. Even better? You can get access — before they disappear. Bookings are almost gone for the most high-demand NYE adventures in Grinnell, iowa, USA. This is the final chance to grab exclusive travel deals before they’re fully booked — including NYE river rides, private walking experiences, and limited-entry tickets. Savvy planners book in advance — don’t be the one scrolling while others are toasting on rooftops.
Reserve your spot today — once it’s full, it’s gone.
Best-Rated New Year’s Eve Experiences Still Available
Lost in the noise? Let the feedback guide your pick. People can’t stop posting these unforgettable moments — from luxury dinners to harbor cruises. The craziest thing? Some of them are still available — as of this moment.
Rated ★★★★★ and still available — book your spot now before it’s gone.
Last-Minute Festive Travel Deals Still Available in Grinnell, iowa, USA
Every delay you pause, one more discount in Grinnell, iowa, USA is gone. We’ve seen holiday promos go from available to gone in under a few moments. Book now or watch prices jump tomorrow — this is the real final call.
This deal won’t last — Grab it now before prices jump.
Unforgettable Fireworks + Dining Experiences in One Booking
Close your eyes: youre toasting glasses on a candlelit rooftop as pyro shows launch above the bright skyline of Grinnell, iowa, USA.From private meals to premium parties, there’s a premium option for everyone. And the most exciting bit? You can still book them — while they last.
Don’t split plans — Book once and get the whole night covered.
Underrated NYE Packages Even Locals Miss
Not all the most memorable New Year’s Eve nights are displayed on the popular travel sites. These secret deals often fly under the radar — no big ads, just word-of-mouth and authentic charm. If you stumble across one of these quiet deals still open, take the shot — it’s like unlocking a hidden prize.
These are the NYE tours even locals keep quiet — See what’s still available.
How to Explore Grinnell, iowa, USA on a Budget This New Year’s Eve
Seasoned travelers have the cheat code: bypass the flashy packages, follow the local rhythm. Explore outdoor events, dance with on-the-spot concerts, or get cheap food from food trucks open till late. When you merge with the locals and let the night guide you, you’ll step into a Grinnell, iowa, USA only locals talk about.
Smart travelers know the magic isn’t always pricey — Grab the cheap list here.
Celebrate Stress-Free: All-Inclusive NYE Deals to Enjoy Grinnell, iowa, USA Like a VIP
Want to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Grinnell, iowa, USA without juggling restaurant bookings, event passes, and last-second rides? All-inclusive NYE deals are the smart choice. With a single reservation, you get entry into expert-planned experiences, skyline panoramas, multi-course dinners, and often including VIP transport. It’s all taken care of — all you need to do is show up and start celebrating.
Skip the planning — click here to lock in your all-in-one NYE experience now.
Special NYE Tours — Once-a-Year Magic You Shouldn’t Miss
Something truly rare about tours that are exclusive on NYE. These aren’t the typical options you’ll find year-round — they’re limited-time events created for the NYE rush. From twilight cruises to exclusive skyline concerts, these uncommon finds turn Grinnell, iowa, USA into a magical countdown hub. Let it pass, and you’ll have to count down again next year.
Reserve your spot before it’s gone — this tour only runs on December 31st.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve 2026 with traditions, music, and festivals only found in Grinnell, iowa, USA
As the final day of the year unfolds in Grinnell, iowa, USA, the city becomes a celebration canvas—every district, every square, and every street corner humming with anticipation. The official NYE countdown spot is where everyone flocks as the final seconds arrive, often paired with dazzling fireworks and big-name music acts. But beyond the spectacle, there’s an more soulful layer of celebration—traditional displays, ancestral customs, and cultural marches that fuse heritage with NYE excitement.
Discover hidden festivals and public shows for NYE 2026 in Grinnell, iowa, USA — just one click away
What makes New Year’s Eve in Grinnell, iowa, USA especially unique is the variety of cultural events—from quirky, themed street carnivals and neon-lit night markets, to free events that pull in massive crowds without a paid entry. In some areas, full blocks become festival zones, with craft stalls, authentic street food, hands-on exhibits, and pop-up performances that feel more like a celebration of identity than just a countdown party. If you stumble upon a traditional puppet show or a neon procession, you’ve likely found the quirkiest corner of the city—a mix of heritage and hype.
Whether youre exploring alone, with loved ones, or on a NYE date trip, there’s something tailored for every kind of celebration in Grinnell, iowa, USA. Child-friendly NYE parties often feature daylight celebrations, kid-safe fireworks, and cultural storytelling events that blend fun with meaning. Meanwhile, neighborhoods unite at rooftops, small temples, or hidden shrines for sacred ceremonies, where lights dance into the night after midnight and drums echo into the early hours. And if youre chasing the after-midnight thrill, stay a little longer—some of the realest vibes begin in the silent hours.
Best Ways to Travel to Grinnell, iowa, USA for New Year’s Eve 2026
Traveling to Grinnell, iowa, USA is typically easy, with well-established links by flight and road from different regions and even internationally. Most visitors rely on flights or ground transportation to get there, depending on where they’re coming from.
With New Year’s Eve being a popular time, transit options might experience congestion, but in general, it’s relatively easy for most visitors.
Looking for the best flight options to Grinnell, iowa, USA? Check early deals before prices soar.
Those planning a trip to Grinnell, iowa, USA can select from a variety of transport methods depending on their location and budget. For extended travel, many rely on flights that depart from key airports to Grinnell, iowa, USA. Overland connections like buses and trains are often used for closer routes.In some cases, ferries offer another route, with taxis or app-based rides finishing the route.
Planning a trip to Grinnell, iowa, USA during the NYE peak? It’s smart to book your transportation in advance. The closer it gets to the countdown, the more difficult it is to find good transport deals. Planning where youll sleep after the party? There are amazing hotel offers if you act early.
Top Questions Travelers Ask About NYE 2026 in Grinnell, iowa, USA
Is it safe to be in Grinnell, iowa, USA during New Year’s Eve 2026?
Sure, the city typically strengthens security precautions around the year-end festivities.
How far in advance should I book a hotel for NYE 2026 in Grinnell, iowa, USA?
Certainly, especially if you prefer lodging near popular celebration zones.
Where’s the best place to join the NYE celebrations in Grinnell, iowa, USA?
Official NYE areas are where the energy reaches its max.
Where can I watch NYE fireworks in Grinnell, iowa, USA without paying?
Consider visiting elevated parks or terraces with a clear skyline view.
Will public transport still be running on December 31?
Mass transportation typically stays active during New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Can I attend NYE celebrations with my kids?
Lots of events are safe for children and parents alike.
Can I find places to eat on New Year’s Eve in Grinnell, iowa, USA?
Some restaurants offer celebratory dinners or open-air celebrations.
Is NYE in Grinnell, iowa, USA fun without drinking or partying?
Non-partygoers will find lots of options during NYE in Grinnell, iowa, USA.
Does Grinnell, iowa, USA have any unique New Year’s Eve customs?
You might see money throwing, candle lighting, or fireworks rituals.
How long before midnight should I go to find a great spot?
Arriving early helps secure a clear vantage point and fewer hassles.
When the last sunset of the year fades into night, what story do you want to tell? Whether you’re chasing skyline views, authentic moments, or something that only happens once a year, New Year’s Eve 2026 in Grinnell, iowa, USA is ready to impress. This isn’t just another night — it’s your invitation to go beyond the usual, smile wider, and capture memories that glow into next year. We’ve rounded up the most epic NYE activities for NYE 2026 in Grinnell, iowa, USA — your adventure starts with one click.
The world will be watching the clock — but you? You could be watching fireworks over a skyline. Turn Grinnell, iowa, USA into your NYE chapter. Click now — cheap tickets are almost gone, and hotels near the action are vanishing by the hour.