Leaving Pennsylvania often means saying goodbye to more than just familiar faces and places. Many former residents are surprised by the everyday details and quirks they find themselves missing once they’re gone. Here are ten things you never expected to miss after leaving Pennsylvania—and why they leave such a lasting impression.
1. The Unique Food Debates
Pennsylvania is home to passionate debates about food that you might not find elsewhere. Whether it’s arguing about the right way to eat a Philly cheesesteak (provolone or American? peppers and onions or not?) or defending the superiority of a “hoagie” over a “sub,” these culinary disagreements are a hallmark of local life. You’ll miss the intensity and camaraderie of these conversations.
2. The Amish Market Experience
Wandering through an Amish market, sampling fresh-baked pies, homemade pretzels, and handmade goods, is a uniquely Pennsylvanian experience. The sights, smells, and friendly faces make these markets a beloved weekend ritual that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.
3. The “Four Seasons in One Day” Weather
Pennsylvania’s weather is famously unpredictable—snow in the morning, sun by afternoon, rain at night. While it can be frustrating, you might miss the excitement of never knowing what you’ll wake up to, and the sense of community that comes from sharing weather woes with your neighbors.
4. The “It’s Not That Far” Mentality
Pennsylvanians have a habit of saying, “It’s not that far,” when giving directions—even if the destination is hours away. Over time, you get used to measuring distance in hours rather than miles, and you’ll miss this laid-back approach to travel once you’re gone.
5. The Philly Skyline and City Buzz
If you lived near Philadelphia, the city’s iconic skyline—especially the view of One Liberty Place and City Hall—became a comforting sight. The hustle and bustle, the energy of the city, and the endless options for late-night food and entertainment are things you never realized you’d miss until they’re gone.
6. The Quirky Museums and Local History
Pennsylvania is packed with unique museums and historical sites, from the Mütter Museum’s anatomical oddities to the Magic Gardens’ mosaics. Even lesser-known spots like Pizza Brain in Fishtown or the Fabric Workshop and Museum offer something you won’t find anywhere else.
7. The Easy Access to the Jersey Shore
For many in the Philadelphia area, the Jersey Shore is a quick drive away. The boardwalk food, the crowded beaches, and the nostalgia of summer trips are deeply tied to the Pennsylvania experience—something you’ll long for if you move somewhere landlocked.
8. The Local Sports Rivalries
The Pittsburgh vs. Philadelphia rivalry runs deep, whether it’s about sports teams, food, or culture. You’ll miss the friendly (or not-so-friendly) debates and the sense of belonging that comes with picking a side.
9. The Pennsylvania Turnpike and Its Traffic
While sitting in traffic on the Pennsylvania Turnpike might have been a pain, it’s also a shared experience that connects residents across the state. You might even find yourself missing the familiar sights and sounds of the road, and the resigned acceptance that comes with it.
10. The Little Things: Soft Pretzels, Birch Beer, and More
Finally, it’s the small things that sneak up on you: the taste of a fresh soft pretzel, the unique flavor of birch beer, or the comfort of a Wawa hoagie. These everyday treats become symbols of home, and you’ll find yourself craving them when they’re no longer within reach.
Sources:
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTB_0WgJPW0&vl=ja
- https://studyingabroad.co.in/shriya-university-pennsylvania
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-XUOGfGeRQ
- https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/geography/states/article/pennsylvania