Leaving Illinois can be a bittersweet experience, especially for those who have grown accustomed to the state’s unique culture, landscapes, and attractions.
While many might expect to miss the obvious—like Chicago’s iconic skyline or the Cubs—there are several unexpected aspects of Illinois that former residents often find themselves longing for. Here are 11 things you might never have expected to miss after leaving Illinois:
- The Central Time Zone: For some, the simplicity of being in the Central Time Zone is a comfort. No more adjusting clocks for TV shows or sports events; everything feels more aligned with daily routines.
- Snowstorms and Winter Activities: Illinois’ snowy winters provide a unique charm, with snowball fights, sledding, and cozying up by the fireplace being cherished memories for many.
- Public Transportation in Chicago: The efficiency and convenience of Chicago’s public transportation system, including the CTA and Metra, are often missed by those who move away. The ease of commuting without a car is a luxury not found everywhere.
- Italian Beef and Deep-Dish Pizza: Illinois is famous for its culinary delights, particularly Italian beef sandwiches and deep-dish pizza. These local flavors are hard to replicate elsewhere.
- The Bears-Packers Rivalry: For sports fans, the excitement of watching the Bears take on the Packers is a highlight of the NFL season. The rivalry and camaraderie among fans are experiences many miss.
- Illinois’ Fall Colors: The state’s vibrant fall foliage, with its mix of red, orange, and yellow hues, is breathtaking. Those who leave often miss the picturesque landscapes during this season.
- The Architecture of Chicago: Chicago’s skyline and architectural landmarks, such as the Willis Tower and Frank Lloyd Wright’s designs, are iconic and often missed by those who move away.
- Lake Michigan Beaches: The beaches along Lake Michigan offer a unique urban beach experience, with the city skyline as a backdrop. This blend of natural beauty and urban charm is hard to find elsewhere.
- Music Festivals: Illinois, particularly Chicago, hosts a variety of music festivals like Lollapalooza and Pitchfork. The energy and diversity of these events are often missed by former residents.
- The Tamale Guy: For those who frequented Chicago’s nightlife, the Tamale Guy was a beloved figure, providing late-night sustenance and becoming a cultural icon.
- Malört: This infamous Chicago liquor, known for its bitter taste, is surprisingly missed by some. It’s a symbol of the city’s unique drinking culture and a nostalgic reminder of nights out in Chicago.
Leaving Illinois means leaving behind a rich cultural tapestry and unique experiences that are hard to replicate elsewhere. From the natural beauty of its landscapes to the vibrant culture of its cities, there are many aspects of Illinois that former residents find themselves missing long after they’ve moved away.
Recommendations for Former Residents
- Stay Connected: Keep in touch with friends and family to stay updated on local events and changes.
- Plan Visits: Regularly visit Illinois to experience the things you miss most.
- Find Local Alternatives: Look for similar cultural events or culinary experiences in your new location to fill the void.
By understanding what you might miss about Illinois, you can better appreciate the state’s unique offerings and find ways to maintain those connections even after moving away.
SOURCES:-
[1] https://1440wrok.com/people-whove-left-illinois-say-they-missed-these-things-most/
[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/chicago/comments/p4euyu/genuinely_curious_people_who_have_moved_out_of/
[3] https://www.timeout.com/chicago/blog/11-things-youll-miss-when-you-leave-chicago-041917
[4] https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/moved-away-chicago-14-years-110000280.html
[5] https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g28934-Activities-zft12156-Illinois.html
