Ah, Madison, WI. Whenever I think about this quaint city, I automatically think of places such as State Street, The Majestic, The State Capital... all of their parks, the lake, the cute little local coffee shops, the local bike riders, the Botanical Gardens, the Union Square... I could go on and on. I know it seems silly that I am praising a town that might seem really small to, Chicago or New York, you could say, in comparison. But growing up in Wisconsin, and being the city girl that I am, Madison is the closest thing that I am going to get right now, and it always has been. The following are just a few reasons why I find Madison to be a wonderfully charming city, with all of which it has to offer.

1. State Street, for one . . .

I absolutely love love LOVE State Street. When someone asks me if I want to hang out in Madison, I automatically think of hanging around State Street. I mean, why wouldn't you? It's got a lot in one place. The tiny independent coffee shops, the thrift stores, Urban Outfitters, B-Side - my favorite record store ever that has everything from Metric, to Best Coast, to Death Cab, to The Shins and Phantogram. There's the unique spiritual shops that have everything from paper lanterns to palm readings and incense, to beautiful tapestries. And then, there are the really nice restaurants or fancy clubs.

Keep going and you will run into The Majestic, where sweet bands play (Wavves or Ratatat anyone??). Madison is a very musical oriented city, so you will be sure to find flyers of up and coming or local bands, or even bands that have been around for awhile pinned up on bulletins among State Street. That's one of my favorite things about Madison. Or if you want, stop at the smoothie shop and pick up something fresh and organic. It's always buzzing with something and that is what I love about this place.

2. The atmosphere/view...

This one kind of goes with the first reason. I adore the view that Madison has to over. It's clean looking for the most part, and the landscapes are absolutely gorgeous. Ever been to the Monona Terrace? I have. It's beautiful at night, right next to the lake. It's basically a giant balcony building where you can sit on the roof and look at the sunset and take pictures and just soak everything in, along with fountains and beautiful landscapes to add. Have you seen Public Library? It's really neat at night, because the glass windows light up and change from different colors. A lot of the buildings that are in Madison are aesthetically pleasing to me because they have a lot of glass windows, which makes them appear warm and modern - a favorite look of mine.

And of course... the State Capital. I've been inside of it many times for Elementary class trips, but it's nice to just sit outside of it, especially at night time. There's something glowing about it, and adds to that big, important sort of city feel. There is also the Union Square, which I have been to only a few times. It's located right next to the lake, and is full of different activities. From being able to swim in the water, to getting a nice cold beer by the bar area, or listening to the local bands that are always around during the summer time or just relaxing and taking in all of the beauty, Union Square is definitely a place you want to visit at least once when you are in Madison.

3. The lake...

You can find yourself near the lake in Madison at a couple of different places. I don't know off hand, but there are various beautiful parks throughout the city, usually accompanied by the lake right next door. It's gorgeous and clean looking, as it is blue and sparkling - not a polluted looking feel, but instead inviting and exciting. Next time you are in Madison and it's a warm one out, be sure to stop at any of the beaches or parks. Or, whenever you want to watch the sun set or rise, that's a good reason to admire it as well.

4. It's Wisconsin's own Portland, if you will...

And when I say that, I mean it's very liberal and a place where open minded people alike reside. You know how Portland has their slogan "Keep Portland Weird"? Well, I would like to believe that Madison is kind of the same way - but in Wisconsin, of course. I've never been to Portland, but I do know that it has that zany, chaotic, lively, free spirited and creative sort of vibe that is attracts a lot of people. And as a Madison-goer for years, I'd like to say that it's very similar. The for-the-most-part accepting, inquisitive, broad minded people that reside there, the atmosphere itself - especially on State Street. It's colorful, lively, full of characters and different people on the streets. It's all clung together in a really cool and creative setting.

Oh, and all the various farmers markets and tiny music festivals that happen. And don't forget my favorite - the locals sitting on the street playing their instruments. So, overall, I would definitely say that Madison is my version of Portland. It makes me feel better anyway... just until I get to Portland myself.

5. The people...

The people of Madison seem very friendly and open in my opinion. That's just one of the other reasons why I love it. Most of the residents seem unique, artistic, creative, zany and open and all of those things put into one. They're down to earth and very warm and welcoming. That's just another aspect that I have seemed to notice whenever I am visiting Madison.

I'm not that far from the cheerful and buoyant city that is Madison. It's only about 45 minutes away from my hometown, so I can easy transport there whenever I want to. The shopping, the eating, the music, the people, the culture, the sights, in the summertime or in the fall - I love everything about it. It's my go-to place when I want to escape the "redneck/farm/Midwest/small town" kind of feel. I belong in the city, and I think that growing up, Madison was the closest thing. I know there is also Milwaukee, but there is something organic and fresh and beautiful about Madison - something more me.

I hope that you visit sometime soon, especially if you are new to or visiting Wisconsin. I highly recommend that you will find something exciting and unique to do.. there usually is around every corner!