Leaving Pennsylvania often brings unexpected nostalgia for unique local experiences, foods, and traditions. Here are seven things people commonly find themselves missing after moving away:
1. The Food (Cheesesteaks, Hoagies, Soft Pretzels, and Scrapple)
- Pennsylvania, especially Philadelphia, is renowned for its food scene. Authentic cheesesteaks, hoagies, soft pretzels, and the regional specialty scrapple are nearly impossible to find elsewhere, and substitutes just don’t compare.
2. Wawa Convenience Stores
- Wawa is more than a convenience store; it’s a cultural institution. Many former residents crave its hoagies, coffee, and the unique experience of stopping at a Wawa, which is hard to replicate outside the region.
3. The Old-Timey Charm and Close-Knit Communities
- Pennsylvania’s neighborhoods are known for their old-fashioned charm and strong sense of community. After leaving, people often realize how rare it is to find such welcoming, close-knit environments.
4. The Murals and Public Art
- Philadelphia boasts one of the largest collections of outdoor murals in the world. Former residents miss living in what feels like a giant, ever-changing art gallery, something not commonly found elsewhere.
5. Unique Local Traditions (Like the Mummers Parade)
- Traditions such as the Mummers Parade on New Year’s Day are deeply ingrained in Pennsylvania culture. Outside the state, these celebrations are virtually nonexistent, leaving a void for those who enjoyed the festivities.
6. Proximity to the Shore
- Many Pennsylvanians are accustomed to quick trips to the Jersey Shore for a day at the beach or a stroll on the boardwalk. Living elsewhere, the ocean is often much farther away, making spontaneous beach trips a thing of the past.
7. The Sports Culture and Shared Fandom
- The camaraderie among fans of Pennsylvania’s sports teams, especially in Philadelphia, is hard to match. Whether it’s bonding over the Eagles, Phillies, or Flyers, the shared passion and instant connections with fellow fans are deeply missed.
These elements combine to create a distinctive Pennsylvania experience that many only truly appreciate after they’ve left.
Sources
[1] https://www.reddit.com/r/Pennsylvania/comments/zgwdcs/expennsylvania_residents_what_do_you_miss_getting/
[2] https://www.movoto.com/blog/leaving-pennsylvania/
[3] https://wmmr.com/listicle/things-people-miss-about-philadelphia/
[4] https://www.businessinsider.com/things-i-miss-about-philadelphia-after-moving-to-grand-rapids-2022-4
[5] https://wooderice.com/11-things-philadelphians-miss-the-most-when-they-move-away/
