When people think of Indiana, they usually imagine cornfields, basketball, or maybe the Indy 500. But for those who grew up there or lived there for a while, it’s the small, everyday things that stick with you. These little parts of life in Indiana might seem ordinary, but once you leave, they have a funny way of making you miss home. Whether it’s the simple food, friendly greetings, or peaceful roads, these little things can bring a wave of homesickness you never expected.
Here are 11 small things about Indiana that will quietly sneak up on you—and make you wish you could go back.
1. That Classic “Hoosier Hospitality”
In Indiana, people greet you with a smile, open doors for you, and wave even if they don’t know you. It’s called “Hoosier Hospitality” and once you leave the state, you’ll notice how rare that kind of warmth really is.
2. Indy 500 Traditions
Even if you’re not a racing fan, the Indy 500 is part of Indiana culture. Whether it’s hearing “Back Home Again in Indiana” or watching the race with family, the tradition brings back memories you didn’t know mattered so much.
3. Tenderloin Sandwiches the Size of Your Face
Nowhere else does pork tenderloin sandwiches like Indiana. The giant breaded pork, hanging far over the bun, is a true local favourite—and hard to find elsewhere.
4. Small-Town Festivals
Strawberry festivals, corn festivals, covered bridge festivals—Indiana towns love to celebrate the simple things. These local events are full of fun, food, and friendly faces that you’ll miss more than expected.
5. College Sports Rivalries
IU vs. Purdue isn’t just a game—it’s a way of life. Whether you cheered for the Hoosiers or the Boilermakers, the energy and rivalry spirit is something you’ll feel nostalgic about once you move away.
6. Amish Country Peacefulness
Driving through the backroads of northern Indiana, where the Amish live, brings a calm feeling. The slow pace, fresh-baked goods, and horse-drawn buggies remind you of a simpler time—and you’ll wish you could experience it again.
7. Fireflies on a Summer Night
A warm summer evening in Indiana, with fireflies lighting up the sky, is pure magic. You might not realize how special it is until you’re somewhere where you never see them.
8. Friday Night High School Football
The whole town showing up to support the local team, eating nachos in the stands, and the sound of the marching band—Friday nights like these are unforgettable.
9. “Y’all Come Back Now” Vibes
In Indiana, leaving someone’s house often means hearing something like, “Come back soon!” or “Don’t be a stranger!” It’s not just politeness—it’s real, and once you’re gone, you’ll miss those heartfelt send-offs.
10. Quiet, Open Roads
Whether it’s a peaceful highway through cornfields or a scenic backroad near the woods, Indiana’s roads give a sense of freedom and calm. You’ll find yourself missing the long drives with no traffic and beautiful views.
11. Local Coffee Shops and Diners
The corner diner where everyone knows your name, the mom-and-pop coffee shop where they remember your order—these are the little comforts that make Indiana feel like home.
Indiana may seem like a simple place, but it holds special memories for anyone who’s lived there. The warmth of its people, the beauty of its small towns, and the comfort of its traditions all create a unique kind of homesickness. It’s not about big landmarks or fancy attractions—it’s about those small, quiet moments that stay with you forever. And once you leave, you realize just how much they meant.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.unitedvanlines.com/moving-tips/blog/living-in-indiana
[2] https://www.mayflower.com/moving-tips/blog/what-life-in-indiana-is-really-like
[3] https://byanotherroad.com/2022/08/07/homesick-a-sermon/
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VndXWFW_zEs
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D_Aw0QGT7JM
