Here are 11 things people never expected to miss after leaving Wisconsin, capturing the unique flavor of life in the Badger State:
1. Midwestern Friendliness
The genuine warmth and friendliness of Wisconsin people—greetings to strangers and polite conversation—are often missed in bigger, more impersonal cities.
2. Cheese Curds and Local Food
Those iconic squeaky cheese curds and local favorites like bratwurst, Friday Fish Fry, and tater-tot casseroles are hard to find with the same quality elsewhere.
3. Spacious Grocery Stores and Easy Shopping
Large grocery stores where you can easily stock up on everything at once, unlike cramped stores in big metropolitan areas, are fondly remembered.
4. The Four Distinct Seasons
People miss Wisconsin’s full four seasons — snowy winters, colorful autumns, brisk springs, and warm summers — providing an annual rhythm and seasonal activities.
5. Lakes and Outdoor Recreation
Access to lakes, rivers, state parks, and hiking spots are deeply missed, especially for boating, fishing, snowmobiling, and camping enthusiasts.
6. The Smell of Farmland and Nature
The familiar scent of farmland in summer and the fresh crisp air of the Northwoods evoke nostalgic feelings that are hard to replace elsewhere.
7. Festivals and Community Events
From Milwaukee’s summer festivals to small-town block parties and food festivals, Wisconsin’s vibrant communal celebrations are deeply missed.
8. Sports Culture and Tailgating
The lifelong passion for the Green Bay Packers, including Lambeau Field tailgating and watching games with friends, creates a sense of identity.
9. The Word “Bubbler”
Unique regional words like “bubbler” for water fountain connect away Wisconsinites to their roots and are often missed when nobody understands them.
10. Affordable Cost of Living
Compared to many other states, Wisconsin’s reasonable cost of living and affordable housing remain a big pull for those who have left.
11. Quality Time with Loved Ones
Above all, what’s missed most is the proximity to family, lifelong friends, and the comfort of home that comes with the Wisconsin community.
These uniquely Wisconsin aspects shape a deep sense of belonging and nostalgia once people leave the state behind.Here are 11 things people never expected to miss after leaving Wisconsin, capturing the unique flavor of life in the Badger State:
Sources
(https://www.businessinsider.com/midwest-nyc-differences-2023-1)
(https://www.reddit.com/r/wisconsin/comments/17rrppk/if_youre_from_wi_but_living_elsewhere_what_do_you/)
(https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/state-pride/wisconsin/wi-moved-away-miss)
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=60knA303qD8)
(https://matadornetwork.com/life/13-things-youll-miss-leave-wisconsin/)
