Skip to Content

It’s an Ohio Thing: 21 Weird Habits Cherished by the Buckeye State

It’s an Ohio Thing: 21 Weird Habits Cherished by the Buckeye State

Ohio: a place where quirks and charms blend seamlessly into the daily life of those who call it home. From unique culinary choices to peculiar ways of speaking, Ohioans have habits that might just leave outsiders scratching their heads. Here’s a dive into the Buckeye State’s most beloved oddities.

1. Calling Every Soda “Pop”

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Viacheslav Lopatin

In Ohio, it’s not soda, cola, or soft drink — it’s “pop.” And that’s non-negotiable.

2. Obsessive Weather Talk

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone

Ohioans are known to discuss the weather as if it’s a competitive sport, thanks to its unpredictability.

3. The Great Debate: Skyline vs. Gold Star

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Cory Woodruff

Chili in Ohio isn’t just a meal; it’s a divisive topic. Are you Team Skyline or Team Gold Star?

4. Buckeye Everything

Image Credit: Shutterstock / cvm

From candy to clothing, if it can be shaped like a buckeye or named after one, Ohioans are on it.

5. Sweetcorn Celebrations

Image Credit: Shutterstock / naramit

Come summer, it’s not just about eating sweet corn; it’s about festivals dedicated to it.

6. O-H! I-O!

Image Credit: Shutterstock / DavideAngelini

The call and response that unites the state. It’s not just for game day; it’s for any day.

7. Devotion to High School Football

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Jacob Lund

In Ohio, Friday nights are for football. High school games are practically holidays.

8. Saying “The” Before Highway Numbers

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Olena Yakobchuk

It’s not just I-75, it’s “The 75,” making every interstate sound infinitely more important.

9. The Three-Way Meal

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Julia Mikhaylova

Not what it sounds like outside Ohio. It’s spaghetti, chili, and cheese — and it’s dinner.

10. “Please?”

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Roman Samborskyi

If an Ohioan didn’t hear you, they’ll say “Please?” instead of “What?” or “Excuse me?”

11. The Love of Drive-Thrus

Image Credit: Shutterstock / kckate16

Ohio loves a good drive-thru, not just for food, but for coffee, banking, and even convenience stores.

12. Rocking Out to the Black Keys or Twenty One Pilots

Image Credit: Shutterstock / f11photo

Pride in Ohio’s music scene runs deep, especially for these hometown heroes.

13. Wearing Shorts in 50-Degree Weather

Image Credit: Shutterstock / grandbrothers

After a long winter, 50 degrees is practically tropical for Ohioans.

14. Constant Construction Complaints

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Kichigin

Construction season is the unofficial fifth season in Ohio, much to the dismay of its residents.

15. The Haunted Ohio Obsession

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Natalie Shane

From ghost tours to haunted houses, Ohioans love a good scare.

16. Tomato Juice With Breakfast

Image Credit: Shutterstock / THANAN KONGDOUNG

A strange but cherished tradition, especially in diners across the state.

17. Amish Country Excursions

Image Credit: Shutterstock / hutch photography

A weekend trip to Amish Country is a treat for many Ohioans, with promises of cheese, furniture, and peaceful scenery.

18. Cedar Point Bragging Rights

Image Credit: Shutterstock / David McGill 71

Home to some of the world’s best roller coasters, Ohioans love to brag about Cedar Point.

19. Peanut Butter and Chocolate Treats

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Shyripa Alexandr

Inspired by the Buckeye candy, this combo is a state-wide obsession.

20. The Politeness Dance at Four-Way Stops

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Dmytrenko Vlad

An endless loop of “You go.” “No, you go.” Ohioans are too polite at intersections.

21. Tailgating Is a Fine Art

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Visuta

Whether it’s for a football game or a concert, Ohioans take tailgating to the next level.

Gain an Understanding

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Weldon Schlonege

In Ohio, these habits aren’t just oddities; they’re a way of life. From celebrating the seemingly mundane to fierce loyalty to local traditions, it’s clear Ohioans cherish their unique way of living. So, if you find yourself in the Buckeye State, join in the fun and maybe, just maybe, you’ll leave understanding why Ohio is truly a state like no other.

More From The Green Voyage

Top 10 Trending Travel Destinations 2024

6 Essential Banking Apps for International Travel – Managing Your Finances on the Go

Traveling With Kids – 10 Tips to Create Memorable Family Holidays

The post It’s an Ohio Thing: 21 Weird Habits Cherished by the Buckeye State first appeared on The Green Voyage.

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Patricia Elaine Thomas.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

Tips for Trip Success

Book Your Flight
Find an inexpensive flight by using Kayak, a favorite of ours because it regularly returns less expensive flight options from a variety of airlines.

Book Your Hotel or Special Accommodation
We are big fans of Booking.com. We like their review system and photos. If we want to see more reviews and additional booking options, we go to Expedia.

You Need Travel Insurance!
Good travel insurance means having total peace of mind. Travel insurance protects you when your medical insurance often will not and better than what you get from your credit card. It will provide comprehensive coverage should you need medical treatment or return to the United States, compensation for trip interruption, baggage loss, and other situations.Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Trip

Related posts:

Top 10 Countries Americans Are Retiring To
21 Idyllic Reasons to Idle in Idaho
Top 21 Must-Visit American Wine Regions
21 Thrifty Boomer Travel Trends - Budget-Friendly Adventures Redefining Retirement
Western Travelers in Eastern Lands - Adventure or Imperialism?
New Mexico vs. Texas - Which Southwest Gem Wins?
21 Unconventional Travel Experiences Gen Z is Embracing: From Digital Nomadism to Social Impact Adve...
16 Countries with the Most Challenging LGBTQ Rights: A Cautionary Guide for American Travelers
Exploring the Top 21 Delights and Sights of Maine
What Did Americans Discover Abroad? 21 Mind-Blowing Finds
The Cost of Comfort? What It Takes to Retire in America’s Premier Havens
25 Most Dangerous Places on Earth
Top 25 Ranked Destinations for Americans Traveling Abroad
15 Ways to Avoid Other Americans on Vacation
Heading to Mexico? Know the Risks Before You Go
20 Adrenaline-Packed Theme Parks for Ultimate Thrill-Seekers
20 Most Transgender-Friendly States in US
21 Things Holding You Back From Living Abroad
22 Unforgettable Travel Quotes to Spark Your Wanderlust Beyond the USA
19 Countries That Clash With American Values
25 Essential Money Tips from Millionaires for Americans Aiming for Their First Million
20 Must-See European Historical Sites for Every American Traveler (Because History Didn't Just Happe...
Best 18 Hacks to Save on Your Summer Holiday Booking
9 Smart Ways to Slash Your Spending on Your Next International Getaway
Deepest Underwater Caves - Thrill or Chill?
10 Most Incredible Pyramids in the World
21 Ways Washington DC Thinks It's Better Than the Rest
Where the Dollar Stretches Further Abroad
Most Controversial Travel Destinations in the USA
19 Majestic Sanctuaries: Exploring the Globe's Most Stunning National Parks