1. New Orleans, Louisiana
In New Orleans, it’s understood that Mardi Gras isn’t just a parade—it’s a lifestyle. Locals don’t say “Carnival season” with the same generic flair as tourists; it starts on Twelfth Night and builds into a cultural crescendo. Catching beads from a float isn’t impressive unless they’re the heavy, hand-decorated kind thrown from super krewes. And yes, locals will judge you if you pick up beads off the ground.
Everyone knows how to pronounce “Tchoupitoulas” and “Calliope” the correct way (hint: it’s not how it looks). Drinking in public is fine—as long as it’s in a plastic go-cup. Tourists flock to Bourbon Street, but locals head to Frenchmen or Magazine for a real night out. And never—never—order a Hurricane at Pat O’Brien’s unless you’re ready to be marked as a visitor.
2. Los Angeles, California
In L.A., there’s an entire code around traffic and freeways. Locals never say “Interstate 405”; it’s just “the 405.” They know which side streets to take to avoid gridlock, and they never, ever trust their GPS during rush hour. Parking rules are a whole different language—and locals read those signs like legal briefs.
There’s also an unspoken chill about celebrity sightings. No one asks for a photo—just a casual nod or polite smile. Green juice before noon is a thing, and locals know where to find the best one in every neighborhood. And yes, tacos from a truck at 2 a.m. are absolutely acceptable dinner.
3. Chicago, Illinois
In Chicago, ordering ketchup on a hot dog is an unforgivable offense. There’s an unspoken rule that a proper Chicago dog comes with mustard, onions, relish, tomato slices, sport peppers, a pickle spear, and celery salt—no exceptions. Locals also know that asking for “deep dish” at the wrong spot will earn you a side-eye. Many Chicagoans actually prefer tavern-style thin crust, cut into squares.
Another code: don’t call it Willis Tower; it’s the Sears Tower, always has been. And when winter hits, locals “dibs” their shoveled parking spots with lawn chairs, cones, or whatever they can find. Outsiders may scoff, but tampering with a dibs spot is social suicide. And if you’re visiting, just know: no one actually swims in Lake Michigan in May, no matter how warm it feels.
4. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
In Philly, you don’t ask where to get the best cheesesteak—you’re supposed to already know your allegiance. It’s Pat’s, Geno’s, Dalessandro’s, or a neighborhood favorite, and locals will defend their choice passionately. Also, order it right: “one whiz wit” (with Cheese Whiz and onions) or “one whiz witout” (no onions). Hesitate, and the line will grumble behind you.
Another thing: locals don’t say “Philadelphia”; it’s just “Philly.” They also understand the magic of Wawa—it’s not just a convenience store, it’s a way of life. Booing Santa at an Eagles game? Outsiders never get that one, but locals wear it like a badge of honor. And yes, everyone has an opinion on where to get the best soft pretzel.
5. Seattle, Washington
Seattleites have an unwritten agreement about umbrellas: don’t use them. A true local just wears a good rain jacket and toughs it out because real Seattle rain is more of a mist anyway. Break out an umbrella and you might as well wear a “new here” sign. This low-key disdain for umbrellas is one of the city’s quietest codes.
Coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s practically religion. Locals have their favorite spots and will avoid chains unless it’s the original Starbucks at Pike Place, and even then, mainly for the tourists. Everyone knows how to merge politely during rush hour; passive-aggressive driving is the norm. And if you’re hiking, never leave trash—someone will absolutely call you out.
6. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston’s unwritten code starts with its streets—locals understand they don’t make sense, and that’s that. Outsiders may curse the one-ways and rotaries (roundabouts), but Bostonians navigate them like second nature. The city’s neighborhoods are fiercely defended; you’re either from Southie, Dorchester, or somewhere else entirely, and that identity matters. Also, don’t ask for directions to “Boston Common”—it’s the Common.
Sports are practically a religion, and loyalty runs deep. Don’t wear a Yankees cap here unless you’re ready for some serious side-eye. Locals know their Dunkin’ order by heart and will side-eye anyone who calls it “Dunkin’ Donuts.” And everyone understands that parking space you shoveled out in a snowstorm? Yours until spring.
7. Austin, Texas
In Austin, the code is to “keep it weird”—and that’s more than just a slogan. It means supporting local businesses, embracing quirky art, and being cool with spontaneous drum circles on the greenbelt. Locals cherish their independent spirit and side-eye chains creeping into the city. If you’re at Barton Springs, don’t complain about the cold water—that’s just part of the charm.
Tacos are a sacred food group here, and locals know where to find the best breakfast tacos (and it’s rarely on South Congress). Music is everywhere, and people take pride in knowing the next big band before they’re famous. Also, Austinites don’t honk in traffic—it’s just not done. And when it comes to queso, there’s a right answer (hint: Torchy’s is a safe bet).
8. Miami, Florida
In Miami, the code is that style matters—but comfort always wins in the heat. Locals know how to dress for the humidity without looking like they’re trying too hard. Flip-flops can be formalwear depending on the venue, and linen is basically a uniform. Also, locals switch seamlessly between English and Spanish, and sometimes Spanglish, depending on the moment.
If you’re driving, there’s no such thing as using turn signals. And honking? Totally normal here—it’s just part of communicating on the road. Locals also know the real beach spots aren’t necessarily South Beach. And if you don’t know how to order Cuban coffee correctly, you’ll stand out fast.
9. Nashville, Tennessee
In Nashville, locals understand that not everyone wears cowboy boots—but knowing good live music from bad is mandatory. There’s an unwritten code to tip your band generously, especially at smaller venues. Broadway is for tourists; locals head to East Nashville or The Basement for their tunes. And everyone has a favorite hot chicken spot that they’ll swear by.
It’s also a rule that you don’t complain about bachelorette parties—though you can gently roll your eyes at the pedal taverns. People value kindness and small talk, even in the city. When it comes to barbecue, locals take sides, and it’s a debate that can go on forever. And yes, sweet tea isn’t optional—it’s the default.
10. San Francisco, California
San Francisco locals know the code: always dress in layers because Karl the Fog shows up whenever he pleases. Tourists shiver in shorts at Fisherman’s Wharf, but locals have mastered the art of layering. No one actually calls it “Frisco” or “San Fran”—it’s just “The City.” And locals know to avoid Lombard Street unless they’re showing guests around.
Biking etiquette is serious here, and you’re expected to respect it whether you’re on two wheels or behind the wheel. People care about where their food comes from, so knowing your farmers’ market vendor is a point of pride. And no one gets too excited about spotting tech bros—they’re everywhere. Also, locals instinctively know which BART car to board for the fastest exit.
11. Denver, Colorado
In Denver, there’s an unspoken agreement that everyone’s into the outdoors—even if they aren’t, they play along. Weekend plans usually involve hiking, skiing, or at least pretending to do something adventurous. There’s an etiquette to sharing trails, and locals will give you the look if you don’t follow it. And everyone keeps a close eye on the weather—it changes fast up there.
Locals know to be chill about weed—it’s legal, but flaunting it marks you as a rookie. Bragging about how much altitude you can handle is frowned upon; just drink your water and adjust. There’s also a code about breweries: know your favorite and support local. And don’t block a bike lane—ever.
12. Atlanta, Georgia
In Atlanta, locals know that Peachtree is everywhere, and giving directions usually involves at least one. They also understand that traffic isn’t just bad—it’s a fact of life, and complaining about it won’t change a thing. Locals give side-eye to anyone who can’t navigate the ITP (inside the perimeter) and OTP (outside the perimeter) divide. And no one actually calls it “Hotlanta”—except visitors.
Sweet tea is standard, and no one asks if you want it unsweetened. There’s deep loyalty to local institutions like The Varsity or Mary Mac’s. Atlanta’s code also means respecting HBCU homecomings and the city’s rich civil rights history. And don’t underestimate the importance of college football—people plan their lives around it.
13. Portland, Oregon
Portland’s code is simple: be weird, but don’t try too hard. Locals value authenticity, whether it’s in their coffee shop, bookstore, or bike repair spot. No one honks unless it’s really necessary, and even then, expect a sheepish wave. People take recycling and composting seriously, and not doing so is low-key judged.
When it comes to food carts, everyone has a favorite, and loyalty runs deep. Locals expect you to know the difference between the east side and west side of the river—it matters. Public transit is for everyone, not just those without cars. And umbrellas? Like Seattle, they’re mostly for tourists.
14. New York City, New York
In New York, the code is: move fast or get out of the way. Locals have zero patience for people stopping on the sidewalk to take photos. If you’re in the subway, you let people off before getting on—it’s the law of the land. And no one makes eye contact on the train unless something really weird is happening.
Pizza should be eaten folded, preferably while walking. Saying “I’m from New York” usually means the five boroughs—not upstate. Everyone has a go-to bodega, and it’s a deeply personal thing. And never, ever stand on the left side of the escalator—you walk on the left, stand on the right.
This post 14 American Cities With Unwritten Codes Only Locals Understand was first published on American Charm.
