I was in NYC last month (saw the Rockettes, fantastic show).
I was completely impressed by the behavior and actions of the NYC Police. We were watching the Christmas tree being assembled in Rockefeller Plaza. Cops would take little kids who came up to the barriers with them behind the barrier, let them pick out pieces of the pine tree branches that had fallen to the pavement, and then let the kids take a picture with them.
I got turned around in Times Square, and asked a cop. He was so helpful and friendly that I was literally blown away.
I think the New Year's celebration will still be huge, but I am staying away from Philly, NYC, and Boston for while until things calm down. The inner city yutes have been on a rampage for months, and until there is a crack down on their lawlessness, I will stay away from cities.