Louisville has it all: art, nature, food, and the most fantastic festivals. There's a reason why so many people who live here stay for good, and why those who wander away always find their way back home eventually. Listed below are 13 reasons why my heart will always be in Louisville.

1. Nature is Never Far Away

Forests, creeks, waterfalls and amazing wildlife are never far away, even in the middle of the city. We can always run to a park when we need some quiet time to think, or to have a picnic with the family. It's an amazing aspect of Louisville that often goes unappreciated.

2. We Have The Best Fireworks Display Every Year

Thunder Over Louisville is a day that almost everyone in the city looks forward to every year. Whether you're actually on the waterfront watching this amazing display or catching it on television, this colorful sight will always remind you of home.

3. These Gallapalooza Horses That Are Scattered Around The City

These unique hand-painted horses started popping up around Louisville over a decade ago and are now a known trademark for our city. More and more are made every year, and they're a creative reminder of Louisville's love for horses.

4. Changing Seasons Are Breathtaking Here

We're lucky to live in an area with such beautiful seasons all year round. Usually our winters are pretty mild compared to northern cities, and we still get to enjoy the sight of snow blanketing the streets. Fall and spring are the perfect temperature and filled with vibrant colors, and summer is a beautiful time to enjoy the outdoors too, despite the humidity.

5. Our Skyline Is The Most Beautiful

Just a looking at that lit up skyline reflecting off the river's water tells you you're home. Downtown Louisville has some amazing buildings and they look even better lit up at night.

6. There's Good Food On Every Corner

Seriously, we have amazing restaurants everywhere around the city and the number is only increasing. We're blessed to live in a place with delicious and diverse foods.

7. We Have A Beautiful Riverfront

We may not live on a beach, but at least we live near a beautiful body of water. Walking or driving along the Ohio riverfront is wonderful sight, especially along River Road beneath the trees that line it.

8. These Murals On Buildings That Brighten Your Day

There are a few amazing murals around the city and I see more being painted all the time. They liven up the city, and the sight of a familiar mural reminds you that you're home.

9. Or The Unique Art Installations Found Around The City

Flock of Finns by Marvin Finn at Waterfront Park is an example of the fun art we have around the city. These things make Louisville more interesting to those who live here and our visitors.

10. Every Holiday Is Awesome

The Iroquois Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular is just one example of the many special celebrations Louisville throws every year on holidays. Our city has fun for all ages throughout the year.

11. We Have The Most Amazing Neighborhoods To Stroll Through

Old Louisville has amazing architecture because of the grand Victorian era homes, but there are cool buildings to look at all over Louisville. Just walking through these beautiful areas is a reminder of Louisville's history and beauty, and why we love it here so much.

12. You'll Never See Hats Like These Anywhere Else

Come Derby time, we see many sights that remind us we're home. One such thing is the extravagant Derby hat, and they're always a fun Louisville tradition to see whatever your opinion on them might be.

13. We're A Mixing-pot Of Accents

No matter what accent you have you belong here. Kentucky is considered southern, but we're in the middle of the country with many different ways of saying things. This diversity is one of the best things about our city!

What makes Louisville home to you? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook, and check out this article about why Kentucky will always be in our hearts.