With Independence Day festivities in mind, our friends at WalletHub compared the 100 largest U.S. cities based on how well they balance holiday cost and fun. Metrics included duration of fireworks shows, average gas prices, the number of festivals and performances, weather forecasts.
Which city rocketed to the top of the list to out sparkle every other city and claim the #1 ranking? Oh yeah, Minneapolis!
Although we fizzled a bit in the Entertainment and Food category (coming in at #72) with Denver taking home the bragging rights here, we’re still pretty lit up about our #1 Spot. So, let’s get out and celebrate, Minneapolis!
Top 4 for July 4
Pack a lawn chair and head out to one of the top 4 picks from Minneapolis.org for watching fireworks in … The #1 City!
| 1. Stone Arch Bridge: This is the absolute best place to see the skies. Watching fireworks on the Stone Arch Bridge is like watching history, as the bridge is a link to the rich past of Minneapolis. You’ll be right above the Mississippi River and right below the action. Get here early, though; as this is the best spot, it fills up quick. |
| 2. Gold Medal Park: One of the most underrated spots in downtown Minneapolis, Gold Medal Park offers a more traditional viewing experience. Throw a blanket on the grass, throw a ball around and gaze up at the fireworks while you lie down and relax. |
| 3. Mill City Museum: Watching fireworks from the Mill City Museum Observation Deck is as close to a VIP setting as you’ll get. Only 50 people get access, and you have to pay ($35), but the view is absolutely worth the cost. As an added bonus, you get admission into the museum beforehand. |
| 4. Guthrie Endless Bridge: A more unconventional place to watch fireworks, true, but it has that same VIP feel that the Mill City Museum Observation Deck has. You’ll be off the ground and closer to the action, and you’ll have a completely unobstructed view of the fireworks. |