It's hard not to get nostalgic for a city as great as Chicago. When you're far from home, some things bring you right back to the streets of the Windy City. From sights to sounds, these 14 things remind every Chicagoan of where they're from.
1. Any Great Lake.
Sometimes even the waves of the ocean are enough to remind Chicagoans of Lake Michigan, but being around any of the other four Great Lakes makes you think of home right away.
2. Block parties.
Chicago is an oasis of block parties and street festivals during the summer. Nothing feels more natural than joining in with a community of people who just love their neighborhood.
3. 7-Eleven.
This widely popular chain of convenience stores are staples to the Chicago way of life. Where else would you pick up last minute groceries and a giant soda?
4. Baseball.
Chicago loves baseball so much that it has two major teams. Though the Cubs and the White Sox don't typically compete, people still have their rivalries.
5. The smell of beer.
We really love to drink beer here in Chicago. The city is full of spots that produce their own brews, and many bars are often packed through the night.
6. A car plowed in with snow.
This is inevitable in Chicago unless you're lucky enough to get out before the snow plows come. While it would have been easy before to just pull right out, you now have to shovel through the mounds of snow pushed off the road.
7. Traffic.
Getting stuck in traffic is something every single person who has ever been to the city has experienced, but especially for those who have lived in Chicago. It's frustrating but we're used to it.
8. When someone doesn't use a turn signal.
"Hey, that's just like Chicago," you might say when you encounter this outside the city. Of course, you may not even notice if you're one of the vehicles on the road that breaks this law.
9. House music.
Invented in Chicago, this genre of music is often heard on the radio and in clubs across the city. You can't help but go back to your first crazy party when you hear that bass drop.
10. Barack Obama.
Any mention of America's 44th President instantly makes us think of home. Though he lived the first years of his life in Hawaii, he was a politician in Illinois and was living in Chicago when he was elected to serve as the Commander-in-Chief.
11. Street art.
There's intriguing art to be found around just about any corner in Chicago. From wall murals to statues to graffiti, culture, color, and creativity are everywhere.
12. Thick crust pizza.
Best known for our deep-dish pies, Chicago is really an expert in any pizza with a thick crust. Whether it's pan-style or a hearty hand-tossed, we can't help but compare it to Chicago.
13. Hearing "My Kind Of Town (Chicago Is)."
Popularized by Frank Sinatra in the 1960s, this classic tune makes everyone think of Chicago, even if they aren't from here. He may have wanted to be a part of the Empire City, but he knew the Windy City was the place to be.
14. Italian Beef.
This Chicago invention is a staple throughout the city. Many restaurants serve it, and you likely have your favorite place to get one of these sammiches.
Another thing that makes us think of our city: seeing something odd or intriguing. Check out nine reasons why Chicago is the most unique city.
What else makes you think of home? Share your thoughts with us!
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