Our humble home town does not win based upon the most spectacular fireworks displays, which are fine but nothing special. It turns out we’re tops for families on a budget. Richmond wins based on 14 metrics that encompass its entertainment & food appeal (No. 3 in the country among the top 100 metros), attractions and recreation/outdoor activity (No. 20) and the July 4th weather forecast (No. 31). Apparently, our fair city stands out for having some of the cheapest three-star hotels anywhere and for having less traffic congestion than anyone else. As a bonus, home fireworks are legal. The number of homeowners shooting rockets into the sky is quite impressive.
It is some consolation that our destination city, Washington, D.C., is ranked No. 5 in the country — and is tied for No. 1 for recreation and outdoor activities…. which is precisely why we’re heading there. Well, Richmond, there’s always next year.