1/31: Flagstaff pine-cone drop rings in new year

Next year will be different. We'll make resolutions and stick to them. We'll be slimmer, smarter and better looking.

In the meantime, we're looking for a fun way to spend New Year's Eve. Perhaps a road trip is in order. Revelers can ring in the new year at Flagstaff's pine-cone drop.

Here are places to check out while you're there.

Eat

Flagstaff might not seem like a raw-fish city, but Karma Sushi Bar Grill, with its generous portions of fresh sushi and sashimi, will change your mind. Fish is flown in daily. There are nods to the Southwest on the menu. The Diamondback Roll has scallions and chili sauce, while the Tempest Roll breaks out the jalapeños.

But there's no shortage of sushi mainstays on the menu, including an amazing spicy tuna roll with tuna, salmon, yellowtail and shrimp. Karma also serves tapas and non-sushi entrees, from sirloin steak with wasabi aoli to panko-breaded chicken breast with Japanese barbecue sauce.

The décor is stylish, with mirrors and Asian prints on mustard-hued walls and hand-blown glass pendant lights all along the massive wooden bar. It's a hotspot most nights; don't be surprised if there's a wait.

Details: 6 E. Route 66. 928-774-6100, karmaflagstaff.com.

Play

Since 1999, Flagstaff revelers have greeted the new year by cheering as a giant, light-covered pine cone is lowered from the roof of the historical Weatherford Hotel.

The ornament is 6 feet tall and weighs 70 pounds. The drop is quick, quirky and fun. Streets are cordoned off during the event, making the area even more pedestrian-friendly.

There are two drops. The first is at 10 p.m., to coincide with East Coast celebrations and allow more families to celebrate. The second takes places at midnight.

Details: Wednesday, Dec. 31. Weatherford Hotel, 23 N. Leroux St. Free. weatherfordhotel.com.

Stay

England House Bed & Breakfast occupies a two-story, century-old Coconino and Moenkopi stone house that's in walking distance of downtown. There are lace curtains, stamped-tin ceilings and a sunny back porch where breakfast is served. A refrigerator stocked with drinks is available to guests, as are coffee, tea and a welcome glass of wine or beer.

The inn was built as a family home by Barbara Michelbach-England and William England, a master stone cutter, in about 1902. Victorian charm and French antiques give the property an old-time charm, but rooms have all the modern conveniences. Fresh flowers and extra pillows add to the ambience. Rooms from $135.

Details: 614 W. Santa Fe Ave. 928-214-7350, www.englandhousebandb.com.