13 Myths You've Got To Stop Believing About Illinois
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
Whether you’ve seen it on TV or read about it in a magazine, the things you may think you know about Illinois are all wrong. These 13 myths need to be put to rest so everyone can appreciate how amazing this state really is.
Clear your mind of any preconceived notions about the way we live here. Scroll on to gain a new perspective.
If you think Illinois is ugly during winter, you haven't been visiting the right corners of the state. Like any place, the roads may be a nightmare, but in Illinois, you can use them to escape to oases like this.
Due to the majority of land in Illinois being fields, many believe that everyone here lives on a farm, but this is far from the truth. All over the state, there are people leading lives as diverse as any place. City apartments, suburbanan mansions, and trailer parks abound.
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The only thing most Illinoisans eat year round is meat. As we're used to getting fresh corn during the summer and fall, it's not as good during the winter when you have to get it from a can.
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There's actually a good chance that if you're flying coast to coast, you'll have a layover at O'Hare or Midway in Chicago. While you're waiting, why not take the train into downtown and explore a park or grab a bite to eat?
Myths about winter in Illinois are abundant. This especially is the time of year that people think we have little to offer, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Skiing, sledding, and ice skating, plus a plethora of indoor activities can be found across the state.
Most think the only attractions in Illinois are in Chicago, but those people are missing out. From Abraham Lincoln attractions in Springfield to the waterfalls and rock formations of the Shawnee National Forest, there's so much more than Chicago to Illinois.
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Another one of those myths we must expunge: Chicago doesn't have all the good food. Not all Illinoisans even care for deep-dish or hot dogs without ketchup. True Illinoisans prefer Quad City-style pies and horseshoes.
It's a huge mistake to assume that all of Illinois is flat. Throughout the state, rock formations, cliffs, and hills can be found in several state parks. From Starved Rock to Garden of the Gods, you'll be astounded at the wonders found in Illinois.
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Midwesterners in general are seen as a lazier breed compared to some parts of America, but Illinois should not be grouped into that category. We are far from lazy. As of 2018, the official state exercise is cycling, which you can see residents doing almost any time of the year.
If you get your myths about Illinois from movies, then you've got us all wrong. Just like real life, we're not like a film, especially Mean Girls. Illinoisans are generally much nicer than that.
This is far from the truth. Illinoisans love their state. We have so much pride here that we celebrate our heritage through numerous festivals all throughout the year.
Winter in Illinois does get crazy cold, but not every day is freezing. We see many days above 40 degrees and even days above 60 degrees sometimes.
If you think Illinois is northerly enough that is doesn't get super hot in the summer, you'd be wrong. Myths about the weather here are easily put to rest by a visit to the state where you'll see that the weather is just as diverse any other place.
Of course, some stereotypes about Illinois are completely true. Check out 11 habits no true Illinoisan can ever unlearn.
What other myths do you get tired of hearing about Illinois? Share your thoughts with us!
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