Illinois—the land where Chicago and cornfields coexist in quirky harmony, pizza debates turn fierce, and weather forecasts change every 10 minutes. If you instinctively know how to dodge potholes and have strong opinions about ketchup on hot dogs, you’re fully Illinois-certified. If these 11 uniquely Illinois experiences feel completely normal to you, congratulations—you’ve officially become Prairie State royalty.
Table of Contents
Defending Your Pizza Style Like It’s Your Job
Deep-dish isn’t just pizza—it’s a delicious casserole worth fighting over.
Casually Navigating Potholes Like an Obstacle Course
Swerving and dodging potholes is just your daily cardio.
Considering Construction as an Official Season
Your seasons are Winter, Still Winter, Construction, and Almost Winter.
Treating “Chicago” and “Illinois” as Interchangeable to Outsiders
“Yes, Illinois does exist beyond Chicago… seriously.”
You’ve Argued About Putting Ketchup on Hot Dogs
And if you support ketchup, you’d better keep it to yourself.
The Phrase “Downstate” Refers to Everything Outside Chicago
Yes, even if it’s technically north or west—it’s still “downstate.”
Considering Cornfields Perfectly Valid Landmarks
Directions frequently include “turn after the third cornfield.”
Unfazed by Wildly Unpredictable Weather
Snow in April and shorts weather the next day? Seems legit.
Judging Strangers by Cubs or Cardinals Gear
A rivalry as intense as political affiliation—but more important.
Traffic Jams Caused by Tractors Aren’t Unusual
Rural Illinois rush hour includes a combine going 10 mph on a two-lane highway.
Measuring Distance in Minutes, Not Miles
“How far away is it?”—“Oh, about 45 minutes.”…