Whether it’s the lakes, the outdoor opportunities, the kindhearted residents or some other reason, Albert Lea has many characteristics that make it a great place to live.

We asked our online readers what their favorite thing is about the community, and after more than 800 votes, the top selection was the friendly residents here. That was followed in second by the schools and in third by the lakes.

The full results are as follows:

• Friendly residents, 21 percent, 182 votes

• The schools, 19 percent, 161 votes

• Lakes, 17 percent, 146 votes

• Sense of community, 13 percent, 111 votes

• Walking paths, 10 percent, 84 votes

• Wind Down Wednesday, 8 percent, 68 votes

• Downtown, 8 percent, 65 votes

• The mayor and Albert Lea City Council, 4 percent, 33 votes

• Activities for children, less than 1 percent, two votes

It is telling that while the respondents appreciate the infrastructure of schools and lakes, it is most appreciated — based on this survey — to be surrounded in the community by people who care about their neighbors. It makes a difference.

At one of the Wind Down Wednesdays this summer, the question, “What do you love about Albert Lea?” was asked. Here are the responses from that day:

• The fountains

• The pool and school

• I love the schools and I love the beach

• It’s something to do

• Swimming

• The people, the atmosphere of being a community

• Walking tacos from Taco King

• Love

• That me and my friends get to have lots of fun

• Seeing friends and families out enjoying our downtown

• Freedom, love, dance

• We love the mayor and City Council!

• Activities for kids

• That we have Wind Down Wednesdays

• I love downtown Albert Lea Wind Down Wednesdays, music, splash pad

• Always love the music

• Splash pad

• The 112

• Downtown culture

• Cupcakes

• All of the friendly residents

• The walking paths

• I love Clair and Drew!

• Beautiful downtown

Why do you love Albert Lea?