Leaving a state as rich in culture, history, and personality as Illinois can come with a lot of surprises. You might leave expecting to never look back, but once you settle into your new life, you’ll find yourself reminiscing about things you never thought you’d miss.
Here are 11 unexpected things you’ll likely find yourself missing after leaving Illinois.
1. The Deep Dish Pizza
You might have sworn you wouldn’t miss Chicago’s iconic deep-dish pizza, but after a few months without it, you’ll crave that buttery crust, gooey cheese, and chunky tomato sauce. No other pizza comes close, and finding a place that serves a decent substitute will feel like an impossible mission.
2. The Changing Seasons
Living in Illinois means experiencing all four seasons in their full glory. The crisp fall air, the snowy winters, the blossoming spring, and the hot summers — the change in seasons gives you a sense of time and rhythm that you didn’t fully appreciate until you leave.
There’s something comforting about knowing exactly when to break out your coat or enjoy a hot apple cider.
3. Lake Michigan
The vastness of Lake Michigan might not have seemed that important when you lived in Illinois, but once you leave, you’ll realize just how much you miss it.
From the beautiful views along the Chicago lakefront to the serene beaches in the suburbs, it’s an unexpected source of peace. Few places offer such an accessible escape with city views and water nearby.
4. The Wind (Seriously)
Illinois is known for its windy weather, especially in Chicago, where it’s almost like the wind becomes part of the city’s personality. While it can be harsh at times, the “Windy City” has a certain charm that you don’t realize until you’re somewhere else and the wind just doesn’t seem as intense.
You might even start to miss that cool, brisk breeze cutting through the city streets.
5. The Food Scene
Illinois, and especially Chicago, is a mecca for food lovers. From world-class restaurants to street food vendors offering everything from Italian beef sandwiches to Chicago-style hot dogs, you didn’t realize how much you’d miss the variety and quality of food until you’re somewhere where “good food” doesn’t quite live up to what Illinois offers.
6. The Architecture
Chicago’s skyline is legendary for a reason. The art deco buildings, modern skyscrapers, and historical landmarks are part of the city’s heartbeat.
After leaving Illinois, you’ll probably find yourself missing the stunning architectural beauty that graces the streets, whether you’re walking by the Willis Tower or taking in the views from the John Hancock Center.
7. The Illinois Tollway System
It may seem odd, but after leaving Illinois, you’ll find yourself missing the Tollway system—in its own way. The tolls might have been a nuisance while driving, but there’s something efficient and predictable about the tollways that you may find lacking in other states.
Plus, there’s no better way to get a smooth ride between major cities like Chicago, Rockford, and Peoria.
8. The Unique Local Lingo
Whether it’s “pop” instead of soda, calling things “drag” or “chicago-style” this and that, Illinois has its own way of speaking. Once you leave, you’ll notice how many little local expressions or phrases you didn’t even realize were specific to Illinois until they’re missing from your new vocabulary.
9. The Festivals and Events
From the Chicago Air and Water Show to Lollapalooza, St. Patrick’s Day parades, and food fests like Taste of Chicago, Illinois knows how to throw a great event. Whether you were a regular at these celebrations or just enjoyed the energy they brought to the city, you’ll find yourself longing for that lively, festival-packed culture.
10. The Midwestern Hospitality
There’s something about the warmth and friendliness of Midwesterners that makes Illinois feel like home. People greet strangers on the street, offer to help you when you’re lost, and genuinely care about their communities.
After moving to other areas, you might find that the quick, polite interaction you took for granted is harder to come by.
11. The Sense of Pride
Illinoisans have a deep sense of pride in their state, from Chicago Cubs fans to small-town pride across the state. That sense of identity and love for where you come from might seem like an afterthought until you leave.
Whether it’s talking about Illinois’ rich political history or showing off your love for the Chicago Bulls, you’ll miss the pride people have for their local culture, sports teams, and traditions.
Leaving Illinois can feel like leaving a part of yourself behind. From the unforgettable pizza to the distinct seasons and architecture, it’s a state that’s full of surprises, and the things you didn’t expect to miss often turn out to be the things you hold on to the most.
So, while you may have left Illinois for a reason, these unexpected fond memories will have you reminiscing for years to come.
SOURCES
- (https://1440wrok.com/people-whove-left-illinois-say-they-missed-these-things-most/)
- (https://www.reddit.com/r/AskChicago/comments/1li3a3m/chicagoans_who_left_and_came_back_what_did_you/)
- (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k70M8oTTFac)
