Driving on the freeways in San Antonio often makes you think, "Why are they so high?"

Especially at major highway intersections like Loop 410, 1604, or I-10, it feels like you are driving on a bridge soaring into the sky, which is not just an illusion but a reality as San Antonio's freeways are indeed higher than those in other states.

There are several reasons for this; as traffic in San Antonio has significantly increased, freeway intersections have stacked upon each other, necessitating the roads to be elevated. In other cities, even multi-level interchanges typically have 2-3 levels, but here, there are sections with 4 or even 5 levels stacked on top of each other.

In fact, when you visit the 'Spaghetti Bowl' section where I-10 and 410 meet, you can feel a thrill as if you are on a ride. First-time drivers often grip the steering wheel tightly out of nervousness.

Geographical reasons also play a role. San Antonio has a flat terrain, but to avoid flooding and drainage issues, roads are often designed to be higher.

Particularly in areas crossing rivers or streams, the height is significantly increased to create bridges, giving an even higher sensation. Thus, from a distance, the road structures intertwining above the city can make it look like the entire city is floating on a massive structure.

People in San Antonio jokingly say, "We also train to overcome acrophobia." In reality, when you are on the high freeways, the buildings below appear tiny like toys, and at night, the lights sparkle, providing a stunning view. I too was scared at first, but now I sometimes intentionally drive on the higher sections just for the view. Especially when entering the city via the northern section of 1604 or I-35, it feels like you are on a viewpoint overlooking downtown San Antonio.

When driving back to San Antonio from other states, you can definitely feel the difference.

In California, the roads are wide and have many lanes, but freeway structures are not built this high. In contrast, San Antonio has many lanes and added height, making it easy for first-time drivers to get confused, and if they don't pay attention to the navigation, they can easily take the wrong turn.

Of course, for those with acrophobia, driving can be burdensome. If an accident occurs, rescue is not easy, and during traffic jams, you often have to sit stuck on the high roads. However, despite these inconveniences, the high freeways are a symbol of San Antonio's traffic.

While driving on the San Antonio freeways, I sometimes think, "Did the person who designed this road like roller coasters?"

It is that thrilling and unique. The scenery created by the height of the freeways, which is hard to find in other states, symbolizes the growth and vitality of this city.

If you can't avoid it, enjoy it. So today, while driving on the freeway, I imagine I'm riding a roller coaster for free on the elevated sections.