We've spent four NYE at DLR, and we have always chosen to be at DCA at midnight. It is far less crowded, but yet, has a very fun, festive party atmosphere.
They don't have the Electrical Parade there anymore, but back in 2009, I have fond memories of sitting around the hub at DCA waiting for the EP to begin, and DJ type party music was pumping, and all around me, people were laughing and dancing (everyone from toddlers to grandmas...it was AWESOME)...one of my best NYE ever. Last NYE we were at DCA, and I have great video of my teenage DD dancing in the street near Muppet Vision theater. It was a fun party! The party seems to always be centered near the Hub and the Hollywood area (at least in year's past...this year might be different with all the changes), and I remember the Paradise Pier area being near deserted in the evening of NYE (well before midnight).