Pennsylvania is a state full of unique, often overlooked aspects of life that make it stand apart from its neighbors. From quirky rivalries to iconic foods and distinctive landscapes, here are ten things you won’t find anywhere else once you leave the Keystone State.
1. Wawa and Sheetz Rivalry
Pennsylvania is home to two convenience store giants—Wawa and Sheetz—which have a passionate, almost cult-like following. The rivalry between these two chains is a part of local culture, with residents fiercely loyal to one or the other. This competition and the unique experience of visiting each store is nearly impossible to replicate in any other state.
2. Distinct Regional Accents and Dialects
Pennsylvania’s linguistic diversity is striking. From the famous “Yinz” of Pittsburgh to the distinctive Philadelphia accent, and even the influence of Pennsylvania Dutch in rural areas, the state’s accents and dialects vary dramatically from one region to another. You won’t find this unique blend of speech patterns anywhere else in the U.S.
3. Amish Buggies on Country Roads
In rural Pennsylvania, especially in Pennsylvania Dutch Country, it’s common to encounter horse-drawn Amish buggies sharing the road with cars. While the Amish lifestyle is widespread in parts of the state, seeing buggies on country roads is an experience few places outside of Pennsylvania offer.
4. Pierogies as a Staple Food
Thanks to Pennsylvania’s rich Eastern European heritage, pierogies have become a beloved comfort food. From diners to stadium food stands, you’ll find these delicious dumplings filled with potatoes, cheese, and other fillings all over the state. Outside of Pennsylvania, they’re hard to find in the same quantity or quality.
5. Rolling Farmland Mixed with Forested Mountains
The diverse landscape of Pennsylvania is unmatched. The state offers a stunning blend of lush farmland, thick forests, and rugged mountains. Particularly striking is the dramatic transition between regions like the Allegheny Plateau and the Ridge and Valley—a landscape that’s uniquely Pennsylvanian.
6. Historic Steel and Coal Towns
Pennsylvania’s industrial past is still visible today, with old steel mills, coal breakers, and company towns scattered across the state. These remnants of the state’s history reflect a bygone era that you won’t find elsewhere, especially in the same concentration.
7. Statewide Love for Soft Pretzels
Soft pretzels are more than just a snack in Pennsylvania—they’re an obsession. In cities like Philadelphia, pretzels are often sold on street corners and even served in school cafeterias. The state’s unique love for this iconic snack sets it apart from other places where pretzels are less of a cultural staple.
8. Covered Bridges
Pennsylvania boasts more covered bridges than any other state in the U.S. Many of these picturesque structures are lovingly preserved and still in use, adding an undeniable charm to the countryside. Their beauty and historical significance make them a true symbol of Pennsylvania.
9. Unique Place Names
Pennsylvania is home to some of the quirkiest place names in the U.S. From towns like Intercourse and Blue Ball in Amish Country to Punxsutawney, the home of the famous groundhog, Pennsylvania’s place names are memorable, often raising eyebrows and sparking curiosity in anyone unfamiliar with them.
10. A Patchwork of Distinct Regional Cultures
Each of Pennsylvania’s regions has its own distinct traditions, foods, and cultures, making the state feel like several mini-states in one. From the urban vibe of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, to the rural charm of Amish Country and the unique identity of “Pennsyltucky”, Pennsylvania offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences that can’t be found all in one place anywhere else.
These small yet distinctive elements make Pennsylvania unique. The rivalry between Wawa and Sheetz, the Amish presence, and regional quirks all contribute to a sense of place that is difficult to replicate anywhere else. If you’re used to life in Pennsylvania, you’ll quickly realize how these elements shape the state and how much they are missed once you leave.
Sources
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Regions_of_Pennsylvania
[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/AskAnAmerican/comments/8gfuta/how_different_culturally_are_various_parts_of/
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pennsylvania
[4] https://kids.britannica.com/kids/article/Pennsylvania/345516
[5] https://georgiastudies.gpb.org/c7-regional-differences-among-american-colonies