10 Things People from Ohio Do Every Time They Come Back to Ohio
No matter how far you wander from the heart of the Midwest, coming back to Ohio is like reuniting with an old friend who never changes (except for the weather—always the weather). Whether you’ve been off chasing big-city dreams or lounging in sunnier states, there’s something comforting about the Buckeye State. Here are ten things every Ohioan does when they make their way back home.
Complain About the Weather in Every Season
You can’t spend more than five minutes back in Ohio without commenting on the unpredictable weather. You leave the house in a jacket, regret it by noon, and laugh as it snows in April. If you’re not discussing Ohio’s four seasons in one day, are you even home?
Make Fun of Michigan
No matter how long you’ve been away, crossing the Ohio border instantly reignites the rivalry with Michigan. It’s practically a state law to mention how Ohio is superior to Michigan, with the scarlet and gray always triumphing over maize and blue.
Visit a Skyline Chili (Even If You Pretend to Hate It)
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or in denial, the pull of Skyline Chili is irresistible. You might order a three-way with pride or sneak in for a cheese coney, because deep down, you know no one outside Ohio truly understands chili spaghetti.
Crave Buckeyes (The Candy, Not Just the Team)
The minute you’re back, the craving for those delicious peanut butter and chocolate Buckeye treats kicks in. Whether you make a batch yourself or pick some up from a local bakery, nothing says “welcome home” like indulging in a piece of Ohio pride.
Engage in a Heated Debate About Which City Is Best
The classic Ohio debate—Columbus, Cleveland, or Cincinnati—always resurfaces. You’ll defend your city’s superiority with fervor, armed with stats, local pride, and a few passive-aggressive comments.
Get Excited About Cedar Point (But Complain About the Lines)
Even if you don’t plan to go, you can’t resist talking up Cedar Point’s roller coasters. You hype it as the “best amusement park in the world,” but can’t help mentioning the long summer lines.
Stop by the Nearest Giant Eagle or Kroger
Returning home means a pit stop at one of Ohio’s staple grocery stores. You feel nostalgic wandering the aisles of Giant Eagle or Kroger, as if you’re reconnecting with an old friend—even if it’s just a grocery store.
Reminisce About the Ohio State Fair (and Deep-Fried Foods)
As soon as you’re home, you start reminiscing about the Ohio State Fair like it’s a national event. You can almost taste the deep-fried Oreos and funnel cakes, and the smell of livestock brings a strangely comforting sense of nostalgia.
Feel a Surge of Buckeye Football Pride
Whether you’re a casual fan or a die-hard, your Buckeye spirit reawakens the moment you return to Ohio. You start talking about the team with renewed enthusiasm and mentally prepare for the next Michigan game.
Casually Brag About the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Even if you haven’t visited in years, you take pride in Cleveland’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. You bring it up like it’s a personal achievement and are ready to declare Cleveland as the true home of rock and roll whenever music comes up.
Coming back to Ohio is like settling into your favorite recliner—familiar, sturdy, and full of Midwest charm. From heated city debates to indulging in Buckeyes and chili spaghetti, there’s no place like the Buckeye State. So grab your favorite snack, brace for some wild weather, and enjoy the little quirks that make Ohio feel like home.
