Illinois – the Land of Lincoln, where the urban hustle of Chicago meets the quiet charm of the prairie. Whether you’re in the city, the suburbs, or out in the rural countryside, Illinois has a little something for everyone. If you’ve ever tried to figure out what makes this state tick, here are 10 things only true Illinoisans will understand.
Chicago is not just a city – it’s a state of mind
Ask any Illinoisan, and they’ll tell you: Chicago isn’t just the biggest city in the state; it’s practically its own world. Whether it’s the food (hello, deep dish), the culture, or the sports scene, Chicago is a whole vibe. You’ll hear locals debate the best pizza, best jazz club, and best place to catch a sunset—but no matter what, it’s always “Chicago, baby!”
The Chicago accent is real, and we can’t escape it
If you think the Chicago accent is a stereotype, you’ve never heard a true local say “caaaah” (car) or “yoooose” (use). It’s not quite Midwestern, not quite anything else—it’s a distinctive blend that’s definitely its own thing. You’ll catch yourself saying “Da Bears” in no time.
You know the best deep-dish pizza is from your favorite place
Deep-dish pizza is more than just food in Illinois—it’s a way of life. Whether you’re a Giordano’s fan or swear by Lou Malnati’s, every Illinoisan has a very strong opinion about the best deep dish. The argument is passionate, and there’s no middle ground. It’s a state-wide debate that lasts longer than the pizza does.
“The suburbs” means a lot of different things
In Illinois, “the suburbs” could mean anything from the bustling areas surrounding Chicago to the peaceful farm towns in central Illinois. Depending on where you are, the suburbs might be all about shopping malls, or it could be about wide open spaces and cornfields. The best part? Everyone has their own suburban experience, and they’re all a little different.
You can’t have a conversation without mentioning the weather
The weather in Illinois is more unpredictable than a reality TV show finale. One minute it’s sunny, the next it’s snowing, and by the evening, it’s 50°F warmer. Locals have learned to dress in layers and keep an umbrella in the car year-round because you never know when you’ll need it.
Corn is more than just food—it’s a way of life
Illinois isn’t called the “Corn State” for nothing. From cornfields to corn festivals, corn is everywhere. You know you’re in Illinois when you pass miles and miles of corn and see “Corn Maze” signs pop up every fall. And yes, Illinois-grown corn is far superior to the rest.
The phrase “The Chicago Way” has real meaning
If you’re from Illinois, you know that “The Chicago Way” is more than just a line from a gangster movie—it’s about navigating politics, business, and life in the Windy City with a little bit of grit and a lot of style. It’s unspoken, but it’s understood, and it’s something that everyone who’s lived here gets.
The Illinois River isn’t just a river – it’s an essential part of life
Illinoisans take the Illinois River seriously, from its historical significance to its recreational use. Whether you’re fishing, boating, or just relaxing along the banks, the river has always been a lifeline for those who live near it. It’s one of those things you don’t realize you love until you see it again after being away for a while.
We’re proud of our history—especially Lincoln’s
Abraham Lincoln isn’t just another historical figure in Illinois—he’s our guy. From Springfield (his hometown) to the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C., Illinoisans wear their Lincoln pride on their sleeves. You’ll see his name everywhere, from schools to highways, and we’ll always be ready to tell you just how proud we are of our 16th president.
We take our sports very seriously
Whether it’s cheering for the Chicago Bears, Cubs, Blackhawks, or Bulls, sports in Illinois are more than just a pastime—they’re a religion. There’s a rivalry between Chicago’s teams and those from nearby states, and when game day comes, it’s time for everyone to get loud and get invested. A good season can make your year, while a bad one will lead to a lot of venting over deep dish.
Illinois might be known for its big city hustle, but it’s also full of small-town charm, rich history, and a diverse landscape. From Chicago’s skyscrapers to the wide open fields of the countryside, there’s always something to discover in the Land of Lincoln. So whether you’re digging into deep-dish pizza, cheering on the Bears, or simply watching the weather change by the minute, Illinois has a way of making every day a little more interesting.
