Outsiders don’t always understand West Virginia. It feels like we’re always having to explain stereotypes about West Virginia… which to locals, feels ridiculous. After all, we know our state like the back of our hand, and we know how magical it can be. You, too, can get to know our state like a local… but first you have to adapt to our colloquialisms and adjust to our friendly, nature-loving lifestyle. Take a look at this list so you can learn how to enjoy West Virginia the way the Mountaineers do:

1. It's not western Virginia.
Google Maps
We've been a member of the Union since 1863, after all. And before that? You guessed it. Appalachia was settled by members of an ancient mound-building culture.
2. The rest of the country doesn't know how to eat a hot dog.
Steven Depolo/Flickr
It's not a West Virginia dog unless it comes with chili sauce, and in the southern part of the state, slaw. Hot dogs may seem like such a simple invention, but you haven't truly tried one until you've tasted one prepared the West Virginian way.
3. We honor our coal miners.
WikiMedia Commons/Library of Congress
They are our grandfathers, fathers, uncles, cousins, and brothers. For many West Virginians, coal mining was the only opportunity to provide for their families. As such, our local landscape is dotted with remnants of their efforts and modern mining initiatives.
4. We're not really "the North" or "the South."
WikiMedia Commons
We're Appalachian. We're bordered by both Maryland and Ohio, for crying out loud. Our other neighbors, Virginia, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania each have their own personality. A number of different traditions have bled into local culture, and you'll notice this as soon as you settle in.
5. And we might correct how you say "Appalachia."
WikiMedia Commons/Pete unseth
Most of us pronounce it "appa-LATCH-uh."
6. You might have trouble getting wi-fi.
Flickr/jamiev_03
But it's worth it to give a home to the Green Bank Observatory and our wild natural lands. If you find a free moment to steal away during your visit in our state, you simply must budget some time to spend enjoying the great outdoors.

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7. We love strange creatures and local lore.
Flickr/OZinOH
The Mothman is something of a mascot here. Each small town also seems to have its own stories and legacies, all of which offer a glimpse into the unique personalities our many neighborhoods have.
8. You have to try a pepperoni roll.
WikiMedia Commons/Marcnelsonjr
Once you taste one of these delicious treats, you'll be sad that they're hard to find in other states. Homemade is the best, so if you spot a bake sale, be sure to stop!
9. We love wild foods.
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You may not have heard of ramps before, but come to a ramp dinner in the springtime, and you'll fall in love with these wild onions.
10. Accelerate at the bottom of the mountain.
WikiMedia Commons/Famartin
You have to get some momentum going at the start of our big hills, or you won't make it to the top. And the narrow country roads may seem terrifying at first, but you'll get used to them!
11. The capital city is not Charles Town.
WikiMedia Commons/O Palsson
But we do have one of those, too.
12. We take extraordinary pride in our state.
Flickr/Angela
You can make all the West Virginia jokes that you want, but we'll never be sorry for living in the beautiful Mountain State. Living amidst these 24,230 square miles of absolute splendor is truly a treat.

While there are many stereotypes about West Virginia, you truly have to get to know our state… and us locals. We’re a breed like no other, and you just might fall in love with our landscape.

If you enjoyed this article, you might also like to read 10 undeniable reasons why West Virginia will always be home.

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More to Explore

Stereotypes About West Virginia

Nikki Rhoades | January 19, 2020

What are some interesting things about West Virginia?

Living in West Virginia, you get to know a bit about what makes The Mountain State such a special place. You may know us for coal mining, but we also have a prominent logging industry. One of the more interesting things about West Virginia is that we have four anthems! The most famous, arguably, is "Take Me Home, Country Roads."

What are West Virginians known for?

West Virginians are known for their love of the great outdoors, and it’s no secret why – we’re in one of the most beautiful and scenic landscapes in America!

What is the most popular West Virginia stereotype?

West Virginia, unfortunately, has to combat a number of unpleasant stereotypes – perhaps most notably that mining towns can be somewhat rundown. Locals can tell you that, despite this, our state is home to some architectural marvels. Once you settle in, you’ll notice that many of West Virginia’s traits are dazzling.

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