Washington D.C. on the Fourth of July
 

Our family of four is traveling to Washington D. C. on the 4th of July and would like suggestions on where to stay that would be convenient for seeing the fireworks display. Any suggestions for reasonably priced lodging in the area would be great. Information about special events for that weekend would also be helpful. Thanks so much.

If you are going to go, you need to make reservations very soon. This is THE place to be on the 4th. The most spectacular fireworks I have ever seen. The best place to stay may not however be the best place to view the fireworks, although someone else might have suggestions here. I would recommend getting a hotel on the metro line, maybe at Crystal city or Pentagon City or even in Alexandria at King Street. For the fireworks you can take the metro into D.C. and get off near the mall then walk. We arrived about 6 o'clock and sat in the perfect location, right on the steps of the Lincoln memorial, about 15 feet from the reflecting pool. Then just hung out and watched the people go by until the fireworks began. I would not recommend bringing a lot of stuff with you like folding chairs and all of that, because you can find a much more prime space if you just need room to park your behind. Plus it blocks the view of others. I would have each person carry a sitting pad and a bag lunch or snacks and drinks in a small backpack. Then when it is over you just have to stand up and go, no toting heavy gear etc. around. Have a great time!

Gigi has it right... it is definitely the primo fireworks spectacle going, and represents one of the better uses of our tax dollars. There are many excellent spots from which to see the fireworks... any place that has an unobstructed view of the Mall will do, ranging from the steps of the Capitol to the Iwo Jima Memorial to the Virginia side of the banks of the Potomac. The fireworks routinely draw about 500,000 viewers, so you'te certain to have company regardless of where your family sits. Because July 4th falls on a Saturday this year, you won't be competing with businesses and government agencies for hotel rooms, which ought to make rates a little better. There are a dozen or so hotels in Crystal City, Virginia, which is on Metro and only two stops from the tourist areas of DC. Also, don't just go at sunset: there's a day-long festival on the Mall that features music, crafts, and other Americana. By all means, go and enjoy.

The BEST! Anywhere around the mall is great. Let me know if you don't get goosebumps, and I'll eat my - well, just have a great time.

I live in the remote suburbs of DC and confirm that you have been given wonderful advice. Don't limit your lodging search, however, to the DC/Virginia area. Almost anyplace near the Metro route (subway) will be good. Look at Days Inn in the Van Ness area or things in Bethesda near Metro. The subway is a wonderful way to get around. Do take food and water with you as it is very hard to find...and expensive. And take it in containers that you can throw away (in trash cans, please) to lighten your load as you return. As an aside, while you are here you will surely want to visit all the monuments, but don't forget that they have an entirely different appearance at night. And don't overlook a daytime trip to the new FDR Memorial.