When Jack Leon began searching for a new place to call home, he spent 18 months exploring cities across America before choosing Minnesota.
But after moving from Jacksonville, Florida, in June 2025, something puzzled him.
Minnesotans kept talking about going “Up North.”
But where exactly was this mysterious place everyone was talking about?
Jack asked that question in a video that has generated 1.2 million views and sparked a spirited debate over where Up North actually begins.
WATCH: Where Does Up North Actually Start?
A Southerner Searches for a New Home
Born and raised in Jacksonville, Jack spent much of his life in the South, including time in Alabama, Tennessee, and South Carolina.
Ready for a change, he spent 18 months exploring about 10 potential destinations, including Denver, Asheville, Charlotte, Nashville, Washington, D.C., Salt Lake City, and Austin and others.
Rather than playing tourist, Jack stayed in neighborhoods where he might live, shopped at local grocery stores, visited restaurants, and considered housing costs, economic opportunities, and quality of life.
Then he visited the Twin Cities.
And he didn’t come during Minnesota’s glorious summer months.
He came in November!
Minnesota Wins Him Over
What impressed Jack was Minnesota’s combination of opportunity, infrastructure, public transportation, outdoor recreation, and four distinct seasons.
Including winter!
“I actually enjoy winter here, believe it or not. I think it’s phenomenal.”
Coming from Florida, where oppressive summer heat can stretch from March into November, Jack welcomes Minnesota’s colder climate.
He also appreciates the state’s parks and year-round outdoor activities.
Today, Jack lives in downtown Minneapolis and operates Jack of All Trips and Homes, combining his work as a travel agent and real estate agent. Much of his real estate business involves helping other transplants make Minnesota their new home.
Learning the Language of Minnesota
Moving north has required a few cultural adjustments.
When Jack told someone, “Your bread ain’t done,” meaning they were acting silly, he received a puzzled look.
And when he offered a woman a “buggy” at the grocery store, she didn’t realize he meant a shopping cart.
Meanwhile, Jack kept hearing Minnesotans talk about going “Up North.”
“I’m going to my cabin Up North.”
“We’re going Up North.”
Finally, he asked the obvious question.
“What does that actually mean?”
Everybody Has an Opinion!
Jack’s video touched on a question Minnesotans have debated for generations, and the responses poured in.
One commenter suggested Up North is the Southern equivalent of “over yonder.”
Others offered their own interpretations.
Sue Huber Newton: “Up north is a state of mind. When you’re there, you’ll know.”
Adam Leathers: “It’s as soon as the pine tree to other tree ratio is greater than 50/50 I’d say.”
Jireh Mabamba: “Up north… It’s everywhere north… Get it… It’s up north”
Perhaps the most thoughtful response came from Dana Sommer, who suggested Up North is more of a verb than a location, depending on the season and activity, whether camping, fishing, snowmobiling, skiing, or relaxing by the fireplace; “Up North is wherever you can do the activity you have planned.”
Jack was fascinated by the different perspectives.
“I think what I’ve realized is that Up North is something different to everybody here, and there really isn’t an answer.”
Of course, Destination Duluth has an opinion!
We believe Duluth is the gateway to Up North, where Lake Superior, the North Shore, and the great outdoors welcome people to experience #LifeUpNorth.
Jack, who has visited Duluth, describes it simply:
“It’s beautiful.”
Southern Food Meets Minnesota Favorites
Jack has embraced Minnesota life, including some favorite foods.
He’s discovered Old Dutch potato chips with Top the Tater, sampled Betty’s Pies, and is searching for Minnesota’s best doughnut.
He’s also learned that Minnesotans have strong opinions about their favorite restaurants. Mention one online, and someone will inevitably recommend another!
But Jack has a confession.
“I have actually never had hot dish.”
He respects the difference between a casserole and hot dish, even if he hasn’t tried the latter.
Since July, Jack has been creating videos about his Minnesota experiences, from grocery stores to the peculiarities of getting a Minnesota driver’s license.
Two more of Jack’s popular videos:
Bringing Southern Hospitality Up North
What began as observations about his new home has grown into something more meaningful.
Jack is connecting with fellow Southerners who have relocated to Minnesota, organizing Southern-style potlucks to bring them together.
Approximately 170 people had registered for the first gathering in Maple Grove when we spoke, with another planned for Duluth on Saturday, November 14.
“We’re just going to get together, eating Southern food and meet new friends and neighbors. No real agenda, just a taste of home in a place we love.”
The menu features Southern favorites like biscuits, grits, gumbo, sweet tea, and Texas sheet cake.
And you don’t have to be a Southerner to attend!
Jack sees an interesting distinction between Southern hospitality and Minnesota Nice. Southerners are quick to socialize and share a meal. Minnesotans may be more reserved, but when someone needs help, they’re there.
Through his videos and gatherings, Jack is finding ways to bring both cultures together.
Join the Duluth Southern Potluck!
Saturday, November 14, 2026 | 9:00–11:45 a.m.
Bring a Southern dish, meet new friends, and enjoy a taste of home. Everyone is welcome, but advance registration is required. The Duluth location will be shared with registered guests 48 hours beforehand.
REGISTER HERE FOR THE DULUTH SOUTHERN POTLUCK
And that brings us back to the question that started it all.
Where exactly is Up North?
Jack has found a place he loves in Minnesota. As for where Up North begins, the debate continues.
But Jack, here at Destination Duluth, we think we’ve got that question settled.
Up North begins in Duluth!
What do YOU think?
