13 Things That Will Always Make Kansas Natives Think of Home

Whether we've decided to move away temporarily or have ventured off to other parts of the U.S., we never truly forget our home state. Even if it's been a while since we've returned, many little things will remind us of our roots—especially for those of us from Kansas.

Whether it's the sound of wheat fields on a windy day, the smell of cow fields, or the colors of our beloved sports teams, we're bound to feel homesick for life in Kansas. Here are 13 things in particular that remind us of the Sunflower State, no matter where we are.

1. Seeing Our Team Colors

Whether we support the Kansas State Wildcats, the University of Kansas Jayhawks, our NFL team, the Kansas City Chiefs, or all of the above, we're bound to think of home any time we see sports merch (or even our team colors) while out and about.

2. The Smell of Cow Trailers

Most Kansas natives have passed a cow trailer or two on both rural roads and highways. We're pretty familiar with the smell of cattle (and manure) coming through our car's air vents—and we don't really mind it anymore. Driving past one anywhere else in the country will transport us to memories of roadtripping in our home state.

3. That Small-Town Feeling

There's nothing more comforting than small-town living in Kansas. Whether we're just driving through, stopping for a few hours, or visiting for the weekend, most small towns in our state make us feel right at home. Some stand-outs include Swedish-inspired Lindsborg, artsy Hays, and historic Abilene.

4. The Winds

When it comes to windy places, Kansas is first on our minds. The strong breeze across the plains can do some real damage, causing plants to uproot, dust to scatter, and anything left outside to be turned around. This is why, once we've moved to (or visited) other states, it might feel off-putting to have windless days.

5. Long Stretches of Back Roads

Kansas is home to many empty back roads. We know the feeling of driving down these streets without a person in sight, watching the open fields of grass (or corn) open up before you. Driving through our state is the best way to enjoy our scenery. No other state is like it!

6. Construction On a Road

Many places throughout our home state have been under construction for a long time, especially places like Wichita. While we know that eventually, these upgrades will make our lives easier—and our commutes more beautiful—it doesn't make for a great drive in the meantime. Whenever we see those orange barricades away from home, we're instantly transported back.

7. Our Delicious Food

This wouldn't be a list of Kansan favorites without mentioning the food. Sure, we've got absolutely outstanding barbecue joints, but we also have European-inspired dishes, too, like cabbage burgers—also known as kraut bierok—which is seasoned ground beef and cabbage wrapped in deliciously crispy rolls. We certainly miss these beauties when we're away from home.

8. Our (In)famous Weather

Snow in March, tornadoes at a moment's notice, extremely windy days, and even snow that turns to a slush—these dramatic weather events will always make us think of Kansas, no matter where we are. Everything from snow in March to tornadoes everywhere makes you think of our state. Yes, the weather can be unpredictable all over the U.S., but something about the Kansas climate feels different to natives.

9. Our Amazing Sunsets

Every sunset in our home state is packed with color, and it helps that we're so good at photographing them. From phone cameras to digital professional lenses, our skills get put to good use around here. Nothing beats a sunset over a lake—like frozen Clinton Lake in Lawrence, pictured above—or across rows of corn or wheat.

10. The Sound of Wheat Fields

This one might sound strange to outsiders, but Kansas natives know that the sound of wheat bristling in the breeze is extremely relaxing. It's almost like being near the seaside without any water. When it's quiet and calm all around, you can even hear wheat fields in the distance, calling you to slow down a take a listen.

11. Wide Open Skies

In Kansas, the sight of the horizon fading into blue is just amazing. Pair it with seeing clouds coming for miles, and it's a treat you can't find anywhere else. Many of us take these sights for granted if we grew up in the Sunflower State, but we come to appreciate them whenever we return.

12. The Call of Our Bird

Our state bird, the western meadowlark, doesn't just have a striking yellow belly—it also has a very distinct call. Meadowlarks can be heard throughout the entire state, but especially close to heavily wooded areas. In other words, natives who lived in suburban or rural Kansas will certainly recognize their absence once they've moved away.

13. Our Rolling Hills

Any state that offers views of rolling green hills will instantly remind Kansans of home. We might even feel homesick thinking back to the beautiful, lush scenery of places like Konza Prairie near Manhattan, Kansas, or even just the small hills around our hometown. These hills often roll down, rather than up, and are great spots for viewing wildlife or having a picnic in the spring and summer.

Which of these things reminds you most of life in Kansas? Any other fun or weird facts that you could add to the list? Find out for yourself by planning a homecoming (or first-time if you're a tourist!) trip to the Sunflower State soon, using Only In Your State's itinerary planner to guide your days.