On the smaller end of the big city spectrum is always Indianapolis.. It's alright I suppose, but don't take my word for it because I woudln't reccommend (sp?) Indiana to anyone (not a hoosier by heart, it's not home to me...no offense to true hoosiers
) .... It's not huge, definately has all of the seasons (full boar), alright ethnic blend...Don't know about the hip hop scene...Good food...
Might I also add...If you are looking for a bigger place (not bigger than chi-town) that isn't particularly a booming metropolis, I'd definately recommend Binghamton, Syracuse, Buffalo, or Albany NY.... All WONDERFUL places (you guessed it, a NY girl by heart)...
Louisville isn't bad...Don't listen to the stereotypes, it's not a bunch of rednecks and rolling hills just because its KY.. My best friend lived there for a couple years and I adored going to visit her...Great mentalitiy, all the seasons, alright mix of people, surprisingly good places to eat...
There are some other great places, but most of them are more expensive and/or don't have all the seasons...
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