Leaving a state like Pennsylvania can stir up emotions — and not just because of the people you leave behind. Whether you’re heading to a new state or just reminiscing about the past, there are some surprising things you’ll likely miss once you’re no longer living in Pennsylvania.
Here are 11 things you never expected to miss after leaving the Keystone State:
1. Wawa Coffee and Hoagies
If you’ve ever lived in Pennsylvania, you know that Wawa is more than just a convenience store — it’s practically a way of life. From their piping hot coffee to the iconic hoagies, Wawa offers an experience that’s hard to replicate.
You might find other gas stations or convenience stores where you live, but the specific taste of Wawa will have you dreaming about that quick stop for a sandwich and an iced coffee.
2. The Amish Community’s Quiet Charm
Pennsylvania is home to one of the largest Amish populations in the country, particularly in Lancaster County.
Their peaceful, simple lifestyle might not always grab your attention, but once you’re away, you might find yourself missing the calming presence of their horse-drawn buggies, the fresh produce stands, and the sense of timelessness that seems to come with this way of life.
3. The Rolling Hills of the Countryside
While Pennsylvania has bustling cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, it also boasts some of the most beautiful rural landscapes in the country. The rolling hills, covered bridges, and peaceful farmlands create a picturesque setting that’s hard to find anywhere else.
You might not realize how much you miss this serene countryside until you’re surrounded by concrete and flat landscapes.
4. The Pennsylvania Dutch Culture
You might not have grown up with Pennsylvania Dutch traditions, but once you leave, you’ll realize how rich and unique the culture is.
From the distinctive language and hand-crafted goods to the incredible comfort food (like scrapple and shoofly pie), Pennsylvania Dutch heritage is something that sticks with you — especially the warmth and generosity of the people.
5. The Philly Pretzel
Let’s face it — there’s nothing like a true Philly soft pretzel. Other states might offer pretzels, but they don’t hold a candle to the salty, warm, twisted goodness of a real Philly pretzel. You’ll miss grabbing one from a street vendor or your local corner store, especially after a long day.
6. The “Jersey-Style” Shore and Boardwalks
While it’s technically part of New Jersey, the proximity to Pennsylvania means that many Pennsylvanians have deep ties to the shore. Whether it’s Ocean City, Wildwood, or Cape May, you’ll miss the salty air, the boardwalk games, the funnel cake, and the sounds of waves crashing as you stroll down the coast.
Pennsylvania’s proximity to the Jersey Shore makes it a staple summer destination.
7. The Quirky Local Festivals
Pennsylvania is a state full of quirky festivals and events you never realized you’d miss. Whether it’s the Kutztown Folk Festival, the Mummers Parade in Philly, or the Groundhog Day celebration in Punxsutawney, these unique traditions give the state a charm you can’t quite put your finger on.
Once you leave, you might find yourself longing for the next strange but fun local event.
8. Pittsburgh’s Sports Fans and Rivalries
No one does sports quite like Pittsburgh. Whether it’s the Steelers, Penguins, or Pirates, the fierce loyalty of Pittsburgh fans is unmatched. And don’t even get started on the rivalry between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia sports fans — it’s a passion that can only be understood by those who’ve lived it.
Even if you’ve never been a sports fan yourself, you’ll miss the energy and camaraderie that come with these fanbases.
9. The Four Seasons (And the Fall Foliage)
Pennsylvania’s weather is infamous for its unpredictability, but once you leave, you might start missing the distinct changes of each season. The autumn leaves turning brilliant shades of red and orange are something you’ll never forget.
Plus, the crisp winters, rainy springs, and sunny summers each hold their own unique charm. Finding a place with true seasonal changes may feel impossible after Pennsylvania’s variety.
10. The Distinct Local Dialect and Slang
Pennsylvania has its own unique accent and slang. Words like “yinz” (meaning “you all”) or “wooder” (meaning “water”) may seem silly to outsiders, but once you leave, you’ll find yourself missing these quirky phrases.
Plus, Pennsylvania’s blend of accents — from the Philly accent to the Pittsburgh “yinzer” dialect — makes you realize how much the language is tied to the state’s identity.
11. The Soft, Sweet Taste of Tastykakes
If you’re from Pennsylvania, you probably grew up enjoying Tastykakes — those deliciously sweet, individually wrapped cakes in flavors like Butterscotch Krimpets or Chocolate Juniors.
While you can find some of these treats online or in select stores, they’ll never taste the same as when you could pick one up at the corner store. The nostalgia and simple sweetness of Tastykakes might be something you never expected to miss so much.
Leaving Pennsylvania means leaving behind a lot of unique aspects of life in the state. From the local delicacies to the picturesque countryside, there’s a lot to miss once you’re gone.
You’ll find yourself thinking about Wawa’s coffee, the changing leaves, and the local dialect, and perhaps, even wishing for the next visit back. Pennsylvania’s charm has a way of staying with you long after you’ve left its borders.
SOURCES
- (https://wmmr.com/listicle/things-people-miss-about-philadelphia/)
- (https://www.businessinsider.com/things-i-miss-about-philadelphia-after-moving-to-grand-rapids-2022-4)
- (https://www.reddit.com/r/Pennsylvania/comments/zgwdcs/expennsylvania_residents_what_do_you_miss_getting/)
