For any Illinoisan, spotting an out-of-stater is as easy as the corn is high. When we hear or see alien residents doing something that grinds our gears, it makes us wish we could put out a memo for those who just don't understand.
Here to answer your prayers is this list of eight things we Illinoisans wish we could tell newcomers before they embarrass themselves. Keep scrolling, rookie...
1. Everyone sucks at driving
From millennials on their phones to women doing their hair and makeup in the car, there is an endless number of bad drivers on the road at any given time.
2. Get used to construction
There's a saying: "Illinois has two seasons: winter and construction." You may have to add 10 minutes to that morning commute, but at least you didn't have to clean snow off your car.
3. Chicagoans live in their own world
Most people who live in Chicagoland rarely leave the area and think anything below the suburbs is the southern half of the state. In actuality, Chicago only takes up a very small portion of the state, and it is nothing like the rest of Illinois.
4. There's so much to do outside Chicagoland
Illinois is full of things to do. Nowhere near the city, you can find waterparks, cabins, castles, parks, wineries, festivals, and a whole lot more.
5. Fruit and veggies are best bought in season
Newcomers will love summer in Illinois for all the farmers markets selling everything from berries to fudge. There's one in just about every town.
6. Deep-dish pizza is overrated
Illinois has so many other types of pizza, it is sad that most out-of-staters only seek out the deep dish. Our pan and thin crusts are amazing too.
7. Illinois is not all flatlands
We are so much more than planes. Our great state is riddled with caves, rock formations, bluffs, and waterfalls as well.
8. Prepare for any weather
The weather man is never right anyway, so it's best to take a jacket or hat with you when you go out just in case.
9. Get familiar with back roads
They aren't always well-kept, and sometimes they wind and twist so much you aren't sure which way you are facing, but you'll get used to them.
10. Cell phone reception is spotty
Get used to dropped calls and not being able to check Twitter due to zero reception. You may find yourself walking in all kinds of directions with your phone in the air.
11. People will honk at you
Especially if you are anywhere near the Chicago area, it's likely someone will honk at you just for waiting two seconds to take off from an intersection. Don't take it personally.
Want to test your status as an Illinois resident some more? Check out 10 strange side effects of growing up in Illinois.
What else do you wish you could tell newcomers to Illinois? Share your thoughts with us!
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