1. Suggest “Ohio Isn’t Really Midwestern”
Ohioans know there’s a debate over whether they’re truly part of the Midwest, and most aren’t amused by it. Ohio straddles several regional identities, but if you imply that Ohio isn’t “Midwest enough,” expect an impassioned geography lesson about how they’re Midwest to the core.
2. Disrespect the Packers in Wisconsin
Head into Wisconsin and say you “don’t get” why the Packers are such a big deal. Green Bay is one of the last publicly owned teams in the NFL, and Wisconsinites love the Packers with a passion rivaling any fanbase. Try telling a Cheesehead that they should really root for a “better” team, and you might not make it out with your cheese curds.
3. Say “What’s So Special About The Indy 500?” in Indiana
The Indianapolis 500 is sacred ground in Indiana, and even people who aren’t into racing respect the tradition. Tell a Hoosier that the Indy 500 is just “cars going in circles” and prepare for a long, spirited lesson on speed, engineering, and American grit.
4. Shrug at Tornado Warnings in Nebraska
Nebraska knows a thing or two about tornadoes, and Nebraskans are always ready to take cover. If you think it’s funny to ignore a tornado warning or make light of it, you’ll lose some respect. The weather is no joke here, and they don’t appreciate folks who don’t take it seriously.
5. Mispronounce “Missourah” in Missouri
Missouri has a unique quirk in its name: is it “Missouri” or “Missourah”? You’ll get passionate answers either way, depending on who you ask. But if you assume there’s only one “correct” pronunciation, be prepared to get schooled in regional dialects and Midwestern language loyalty.
6. Complain About Cold Winters in Minnesota
Minnesotans are used to brutal winters and often wear their cold-weather survival skills as a badge of honor. If you’re from out of town and complain about the cold, expect a polite eye-roll and an epic story about how they survived the “Halloween Blizzard of ’91” with a shovel in one hand and hotdish in the other.
7. Don’t Acknowledge Deep-Dish Pizza in Illinois
If you’re in Illinois, especially Chicago, calling deep-dish pizza “overrated” is practically sacrilege. In Chicago, deep-dish isn’t just pizza; it’s a culinary art form and a point of state pride. Go ahead and call it a casserole, and you’ll see Midwestern politeness tested.
8. Call Them “Flyover Country” in Kansas
People in Kansas have had it with the “flyover state” label. Just because Kansas doesn’t have mountain ranges or oceans doesn’t mean there’s nothing to see. Hint at this to a Kansan, and they’ll probably hand you a brochure for their favorite local gem, like the stunning Monument Rocks or the quirky attractions along Route 66.
9. Say It’s All Potatoes in North Dakota
Yes, North Dakota grows a lot of potatoes, but don’t reduce it to “just farmland.” North Dakotans are proud of their strong economy, outdoor activities, and the gorgeous Badlands scenery. Acting like their state is all spuds and no substance will definitely raise some eyebrows.
10. Forget About College Football in Michigan
Michigan takes its college football seriously—especially when it comes to the University of Michigan Wolverines and Michigan State Spartans rivalry. Claim you’re “not into” college football, and you’re instantly alienated. When you’re in Michigan, fall Saturdays are all about tailgates, rivalries, and loyalty.
11. Joke About Corn in Iowa
Yes, Iowa is known for its cornfields, and Iowans have heard every corn joke in the book. But tell someone from Iowa that “there’s nothing but corn” in their state, and you’ll get a lengthy list of Iowa’s hidden gems, from tech companies to adventure parks. Iowans are proud of their agriculture—and they’d like a little credit for their other assets too!
12. Make Fun of the “Minnesota Goodbye” (in Any Midwest State)
This one’s not state-specific because it’s a Midwest-wide custom: the “Minnesota Goodbye.” Basically, it’s when you start saying goodbye, but it takes another 30 minutes to actually leave. Mock the custom, and you’ll be told it’s called “being polite.” That “goodbye” ritual is a cherished tradition, even if it does take an eternity.
