If you’re like me, you grew up in or around the Cincinnati and Dayton area and spent your whole life experiencing the roller-coaster of a highway that is Interstate 75. It may seem like your typical interstate, but when you drive it anywhere near downtown Cincinnati or Dayton, it’s anything but basic! Here are reasons why it is simply the best.

1. The constant construction is truly a MYSTERY

Sometimes I wonder why they would tear the road to shreds. No one that I ask seems to know. It’s a concept I love to ponder. Maybe they’re trying to make it more efficient and avoid traffic jams? Perhaps they never had a plan when they started construction? Could they be making it all up as they go along? I’ve even thought it might be some grand art project for a DAAP student’s portfolio. I’m sure whatever the reason for all the destruction and construction of 75 is an important one. Although I’ll probably never see the work come to fruition in my lifetime, I have hope for the future generations who will drive on the completed interstate.

2. It’s so COLORFUL

When driving on I-75 I often find myself distracted by the array of colors surrounding me. The green and blue road signs aren’t the only eye-catching hues stimulating your senses. The many shades of orange make it feel like fall all year long. Festive! Cones, barrels, and signs oh my! Sometimes I like to pretend that I’m part of the family in Honey I Shrunk The Kids and somehow we ended up driving high speed through David Bowie’s scalp. Thrilling! This brings me to my next point.

3. The THRILL

There’s nothing like driving high speed through the constantly opening and closing lanes as your palms sweat, your heart palpitates and your bowels move from the sheer thrill. I save money on a King’s Island pass by simply driving on 75 with my hands up playing Jesus Take the Wheel! Avoiding the cones and signs is like being in a video game. Once you’ve heard death’s cold whisper in your ear whilst speeding through the twists and turns of this hazardous highway, you’ll never be the same. Amusement park rides will feel more like idling through the McDonald’s drive-thru.

4. I get to know MYSELF

During my commute to work, I often end up in standstill traffic for significant amounts of time. The stillness of the traffic gives me a chance to finally be alone for a few minutes (Or hours). It’s a great time to decompress from the happenings of the day. I use this time to de-stress and rid myself of the anxiety I’m feeling about the fact that I’m probably going to be late for work. That is the power of standstill traffic my friends!

5. The LANDSCAPE

One of my favorite things is driving over the diverse kinds of lumps and bumps along the interstate. It is constantly changing through a variety of textures. I’ve never been to a chiropractor and I’m not about to start. If I ever have back pain I simply put the pedal to the metal when I see that uneven blacktop. My spine is readjusted into next week! I know what you’re thinking: “Isn’t that horrible for your car though?” That’s the best part! You can use the money you’re saving by not seeing a chiropractor to purchase new tires.

6. It builds RELATIONSHIPS

I’ve had my fair share of interactions with several other drivers while weaving around cones and waiting in traffic. Some of them have even developed a secret handshake with me. You’re probably thinking that it’s dangerous to do a secret handshake while behind the wheel, but it usually just involves sticking our middle fingers out the window for a few seconds. I feel like I’m in some sort of club!

7. It builds CHARACTER

Because of all the time I’ve spent driving on I-75, I am braver, stronger and overall a better driver. The construction that seems to be going nowhere has taught me that there are things in this life that I will just never understand. The patience I’ve gained from the time I’ve spent sitting in traffic can be translated to every facet of my life. I’ve learned things that can never be taught in a classroom. For that I’m forever grateful.

So next time you’re planning a road trip, be sure and make sure you have the opportunity to risk life and limb on I-75 through Cincinnati and Dayton. It will change the way you see driving. You won’t regret it!