Here are 11 small things about Illinois you never thought would make you homesick, especially after moving away:
- Homemade Food—Especially Mom’s Classics
Nothing compares to the comfort of home-cooked Illinois meals, from Italian beef sandwiches to deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs. - Wide Open Spaces and Green Parks
The sprawling city parks, forest preserves, and farmland vistas bring peace and a sense of home far from Illinois’s cities. - Illinois Autumns and Distinct Seasonal Changes
The crisp air, vibrant fall colors, and unmistakable Midwestern weather patterns are hard to replicate elsewhere. - The Sound of Cicadas and Summer Nights
That classic summer symphony from cicadas and fireflies after dusk is uniquely Illinois and surprisingly missed. - Quick Trips to Lake Michigan and the Rivers
Illinois’s easy access to lakes and rivers for swimming, fishing, and boating is a luxury that stands out when it’s gone. - Favorite Local Restaurants—and Their Unique Menu Items
From Portillo’s to small diners serving horseshoe sandwiches, moving away can mean missing these Illinois-only culinary gems. - Celebrating “Illinois” Holidays and Local Festivals
State fairs, Polish fests, and block parties create a rhythm and tradition that embed memories of home. - Having Your Own Space and Bathroom
Moving to shared housing or a dorm often means missing the comfort of a spacious bedroom and private bathroom. - Friendly “You’re Not From Here, Are You?” Conversations
Illinoisans pick up on accents and unfamiliarity quickly, turning it into friendly banter and a sense of belonging. - Seeing Familiar Faces at Local Stores
Chance encounters with neighbors or family at Jewel-Osco or the local farmer’s market are uniquely comforting. - Even The Familiar Annoyances
Things like waiting for Metra trains, unpredictable spring rainstorms, or the taste of local tap water become endearing reminders of home.
These everyday comforts—from scenery to social quirks—form the emotional backbone of Illinois natives and are what truly fuel the feeling of homesickness once you’ve left.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.reddit.com/r/UIUC/comments/4z6cm7/extremely_homesick/)
[2](https://blogs.illinois.edu/view/1133/82454)
[3](https://dailyillini.com/special-sections/international-student-guide/2018/08/15/dealing-with-homesickness/)
[4](https://blog.news.siu.edu/dealing-with-homesickness/)
[5](https://parents.illinoisstate.edu/support/homesickness/)
