Grab the Auston Grove RSS FeedThe triangle has garnered more than its share of national accolades in the quality-of-life and business-climate categories over the years.
Now Businessweek.com has dubbed Raleigh simply "the best American city."
Businessweek.com based its ranking on 16 criteria, including the number of recreational amenities, strength of the local economy and the education level of the population.
Raleigh edged out Arlington, VA and Scottsdale, Ariz., for the top ranking.
New York ranked 14th, Chicago finished near the rear, in 75th place out of 100.
In lavishing praise on Raleigh, the magazine mentioned the usual highlights, like Research Triangle Park (not in Raleigh, but close enough). Then there are three world-class universities - N.C. State University, UNC-Chapel Hill and Duke University - only one of which is physically in Raleigh.
Raleigh got bonus points for a great State Farmers Market and its good air quality.
The city has also "been home to an array of celebs including Olympic champion Kristi Yamaguchi, Dexter star Michael C. Hall, and singer Clay Aiken (whose dog was even named Raleigh)."
Businessweek.com counted 867 restaurants, 110 bars, 51 museums and 12,512 park acres.
That's right; 51 museums. That's one museum a week for an entire year with a weekend to spare.
