I've been looking at several different cities lately on street view. Many of these cities have impressive views from the roads that offer great views of the skyline. I was wondering, what are some of your favorite skyline views from a road? My personal favorites are the Albany, NY skyline from I-90 and the Hartford, CT skyline from I-84.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1001.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Faf138%2Fjakez1112%2Falbany_zps6f1f6d32.png&hash=bcd66b30acbd19798cd00bf853892e9722d52955)
I-90 westbound descending the hills with Albany straight ahead. This view always impresses me when we drive through. The view from US 4 is equally as awesome.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1001.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Faf138%2Fjakez1112%2FHartford_zpsff8363af.png&hash=2e3023e2bb3665ae85903c5adeecd9c71a06bc6e)
I-84 approaching Hartford. I have a better picture but I can't seem to find it anywhere.
All photos courtesy of GMSV. Please feel free to move this thread if it's not in the right place.
Fixed links -Z
Okay, mine is this one. I-190, Rapid City.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.interstate-guide.com%2Fimages190%2Fi-190_sd_nt_05.jpg&hash=9c3b0f671ac83ddfadc5c0fa1d2e6f5e64f0221e)
Pittsburgh (one of my favorites that I've never experienced...):
https://www.google.com/maps/@40.437576,-80.013591,3a,48.2y,74.69h,87.99t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sN-omMqhxJ3xzAioEebxlwg!2e0
Philadelphia:
https://www.google.com/maps/@39.947529,-75.187179,3a,58.3y,63.74h,90.37t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1spKucXNE26MnoFJgadXHDGw!2e0
Newark:
https://www.google.com/maps/@40.74509,-74.122051,3a,41.5y,254.01h,88.56t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1scuE94bA6vgbmfwrwIC59CQ!2e0
Jersey City and Manhattan:
https://www.google.com/maps/@40.68655,-74.091342,3a,40.9y,70.37h,89.01t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1s6ezJayjYjEPIWU5xkdF1bQ!2e0
Trenton (should've known that was coming!)
https://www.google.com/maps/@40.208754,-74.768343,3a,29.4y,6.76h,90.22t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1slG2bOWDLvrLxcvZGw0wnbw!2e0
I've always liked the view of Cincinnati that you get heading down the hill in Kentucky on northbound I-71/75.
And I'm also quite fond of seeing the skyline of Louisville in my rearview mirror anytime I have to go there. :-p
Nashville's skyline is pretty impressive as you're coming towards the Downtown interstate loop on I-65 form the north or south or I-40 from the east. But there are also a couple of surprising views from I-440 around mm 0.2 and on the top level of the stack interchange with I-65.
Charlotte's skyline is impressive in that it can be seen easily from many different directions. This is because the center of downtown (Trade and Tryon Streets, with the Bank of America tower located at one corner) is the highest point in the city, at least as it was originally laid out.
Columbia, SC has a couple of impressive skyline vistas. One near where I live is from the flyover ramp from US 21/176/321 to I-77 north. You can even make out USC's football stadium in that view. Another is coming into downtown on the SC 12 freeway from the west.
Greenville, SC's skyline is also impressive from I-385 as you round a curve between Exits 40 and 42.
Coming into Pittsburgh on 376 from the west can't be done justice by any photo. No view at all of the city until you're half a mile away. Just incredible.
Albany bugs me. Rockefeller's drooling "line up and be governed" fantasy writ large. You can have it.
Minneapolis and St. Paul have a few pretty cool angles.
I-394 East:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi248.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fgg198%2Fthehighwayman394%2F071_zpsd6915750.jpg&hash=a8088a350f60d2d539cb850862692e173eeb1418) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/thehighwayman394/media/071_zpsd6915750.jpg.html)
I-35W North:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi248.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fgg198%2Fthehighwayman394%2FIMG_0674_zps55d3b8c9.jpg&hash=1a9f310ab114ef3cdf452306d4cde66b03c909dd) (http://s248.photobucket.com/user/thehighwayman394/media/IMG_0674_zps55d3b8c9.jpg.html)
And finally I-94 westbound into St. Paul (have to GSV this one, sadly)
https://www.google.com/maps/@44.954446,-93.079103,3a,75y,226.35h,90t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1s8Tha_QDFqJDIMSk5jk6Wxg!2e0
https://www.google.com/maps/@41.875589,-87.65865,3a,75y,84.76h,90.36t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sW4rMT2qCh4bv7WptIGMHag!2e0
Chicago from the Eisenhower. IMO, this is the best skyline view because the Sears Willis Sears Tower is in the foreground.
Quote from: JakeFromNewEngland on February 11, 2015, 07:38:42 PM
My personal favorites are the Albany, NY skyline from I-90
I really like the view of the skyline from US 9/20 (http://goo.gl/maps/jR0FL) in Rensselaer.
Older threads have touched on this topic, and I have previously mentioned two of my favorites in this post (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3475.msg77862#msg77862) and this post (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=4307.msg94494#msg94494).
Heading toward Buffalo on US 219 or US 20A gives one a good view of the Buffalo and Niagara Falls skylines before one descends a few hundred feet in elevation to the suburbs.
I-390 has a decent view of Rochester, and I-81 has a decent view of Syracuse. But my favorite view has to be A-40 approaching Quebec City.
Quote from: Ian on February 11, 2015, 09:53:14 PM
Quote from: JakeFromNewEngland on February 11, 2015, 07:38:42 PM
My personal favorites are the Albany, NY skyline from I-90
I really like the view of the skyline from US 9/20 (http://goo.gl/maps/jR0FL) in Rensselaer.
IMO that is THE best view of Albany.
The best view of Downtown Boston, from the third-story view of the elevated Central Artery, is gone. You felt like you were up among the buildings, not just looking up at them. The view from the Central Artery is of sooty tile.
The second-best is from the Mass Pike going inbound, after the Allston tolls. The elevation over the railroad yard gives quite a nice entry at night, though this too might be lost depending on how the interchange is straightened.
And, of course, just about anyplace on or from the Cambridge side of the 1,000-foot-wide Charles River Basin is nice, particularly crossing the Longfellow Bridge at sunup or sundown.
Two views that aren't from highways:
One of my favorite view of Philly comes from an unassuming site about 10 miles away from the city. It appears to be a cloudy day so the city isn't viewable in this link: http://goo.gl/maps/7WLuB , but the view can be impressive at night, mostly as you wouldn't think you would be that close to the city.
Another view of a Philly landmark that frames perfectly between the trees is this: http://goo.gl/maps/HNcTr Assuming the link comes up zoomed in (if it doesn't, zoom it in yourself), you are looking at the Cira Building next to 30th Street Station. Again, it's more impressive at night with its various lights lit. As the crow flies, you're about 8 miles away from the building.
Looks like there's also a good view of Downtown Boston from the East Boston Expressway. (http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=42.373463,-71.03204&spn=0.011303,0.024784&t=m&z=16&layer=c&cbll=42.373329,-71.032202&panoid=z2_sqbecMBVlcyJ0Iz3ZVA&cbp=12,233.35,,0,2.93)
Quote from: Pete from Boston on February 11, 2015, 10:38:42 PM
The best view of Downtown Boston, from the third-story view of the elevated Central Artery, is gone. You felt like you were up among the buildings, not just looking up at them. The view from the Central Artery is of sooty tile.
The second-best is from the Mass Pike going inbound, after the Allston tolls. The elevation over the railroad yard gives quite a nice entry at night, though this too might be lost depending on how the interchange is straightened.
And, of course, just about anyplace on or from the Cambridge side of the 1,000-foot-wide Charles River Basin is nice, particularly crossing the Longfellow Bridge at sunup or sundown.
Oh, and the Tobin Bridge inbound, particularly now that the tolls are gone.
There are some good views of Charlotte's skyline from I-277.
Quote from: Pete from Boston on February 11, 2015, 10:38:42 PM
The best view of Downtown Boston, from the third-story view of the elevated Central Artery, is gone. You felt like you were up among the buildings, not just looking up at them. The view from the Central Artery is of sooty tile.
The second-best is from the Mass Pike going inbound, after the Allston tolls. The elevation over the railroad yard gives quite a nice entry at night, though this too might be lost depending on how the interchange is straightened.
And, of course, just about anyplace on or from the Cambridge side of the 1,000-foot-wide Charles River Basin is nice, particularly crossing the Longfellow Bridge at sunup or sundown.
To add some good ones a little farther out, I-93 south in Medford, MA 2 east in Belmont, and whatever the highest road is in the Blue Hills in Milton. The view from Belmont I always liked, as you can see the whole of the city from the Zakim Bridge to the Pru in one clear field of view.
Quote from: Zeffy on February 11, 2015, 07:45:07 PM
Pittsburgh (one of my favorites that I've never experienced...)
Quote from: Pete from Boston on February 11, 2015, 08:45:36 PM
Coming into Pittsburgh on 376 from the west can't be done justice by any photo. No view at all of the city until you're half a mile away. Just incredible.
I have to say, impressive as the Fort Pitt approach is, I've always preferred the view from I-579 (https://goo.gl/maps/xTG6o) even more.
(And from PNC Park, forget about it...)
Quote from: jeffandnicole on February 11, 2015, 10:45:12 PM
One of my favorite view of Philly comes from an unassuming site about 10 miles away from the city. It appears to be a cloudy day so the city isn't viewable in this link: http://goo.gl/maps/7WLuB , but the view can be impressive at night, mostly as you wouldn't think you would be that close to the city.
Beat me to it...when I saw the topic one of first things that came to mind was that spot on ALT 553 just before the junkyards...
I've mentioned these in prior threads, but some of my faves that are not yet in this thread include:
-DT Minneapolis, MN from MN 280 in Saint Paul, MN.
-DT Saint Paul, MN from NB US 52 Mississippi River bridge approach.
-DT Milwaukee, WI from NB I-794 after cresting the Hoan Bridge.
Mike
CA-110 Arroyo Seco Parkway Southbound has a great view of Downtown LA
I-80 James Lick Freeway and Bay Bridge has a great view of San Francisco.
I think this should suffice.
http://goo.gl/maps/Gz1mB
I'm not finding a good Street View image and I do not have a photo, but there's a spot on the eastbound George Washington Memorial Parkway where you glimpse Washington DC down the Potomac gorge in the distance, with the Washington Monument, the Kennedy Center, and the Watergate all plainly visible. I've always really liked that view. (I do not remember if you can see it from the scenic overlooks on the westbound side because it's been at least 30 years, probably more like 35 years, since I've stopped at either of those.) The view of the city is best during the winter, of course, because the trees don't have leaves to obstruct the view, but the overall view is best during the fall when the leaves are turning. The view coming up I-395 is not nearly the same because the Pentagon overwhelms the view of the city, and the view coming up I-295 is from a different angle but includes too much industrial stuff that gets in the way. There's simply something about glimpsing the city down the Potomac gorge that I really like.
I also agree with the comments about Pittsburgh when you emerge from the Fort Pitt Tunnel. I don't much like Pittsburgh for several reasons, but it's hard to beat that view.
Chicago.
Coming in on the Feeder Ramp:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi837.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fzz298%2Fmidamcrossrds%2F100_3519_zps3a4d37df.jpg&hash=2241314d425f44c837950dfe68733654f4b02759) (http://s837.photobucket.com/user/midamcrossrds/media/100_3519_zps3a4d37df.jpg.html)
Inbound on the Dan Ryan Expressway:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi837.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fzz298%2Fmidamcrossrds%2F100_4590_zpsf1c9c077.jpg&hash=3ad96f39829ef3a14a4b9bc239941cd103e751ff) (http://s837.photobucket.com/user/midamcrossrds/media/100_4590_zpsf1c9c077.jpg.html)
Inbound on the Kennedy Expressway:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi837.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fzz298%2Fmidamcrossrds%2F100_2762_zps7cc32f37.jpg&hash=efd0b0a21c7b780a541844e87716a61a85d1e57d) (http://s837.photobucket.com/user/midamcrossrds/media/100_2762_zps7cc32f37.jpg.html)
Quote from: bing101 on February 12, 2015, 10:47:53 AM
I-80 James Lick Freeway and Bay Bridge has a great view of San Francisco.
I feel the approaches from the south are a lot more dramatic:
US 101/I-80 split at the Central Freeway:
https://www.google.com/maps/@37.766176,-122.404893,3a,75y,352.92h,78.22t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sJDc4WzdCInHEbGOLbHo0-w!2e0
I-280 6th Street offramp
https://www.google.com/maps/@37.77174,-122.397613,3a,43.9y,348.89h,87.28t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1smbkH8zONOQM4K-1pQqQO-w!2e0
Las Vegas.
When you are in the city, and the buildings tower over you, and what appears to be the next block over is a mile away, appears to be a huge city. When you are flying in, the views of the buildings with all their varying shapes and themes is unique.
Yet, when you drive towards the city, especially on I-15 South, the city is very small. After experiencing the desert for hours on end, the buildup is very sudden. The Strip, where most of the tall, impressive buildings are located, are in about a 2 mile stretch of area, with the Stratosphere and downtown a few more miles away. If traffic is moving smoothly on 15, you are past the city within just a few minutes, with nothing but desert lying ahead for the next several hours...
Quote from: Brandon on February 12, 2015, 11:38:09 AMInbound on the Kennedy Expressway:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi837.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fzz298%2Fmidamcrossrds%2F100_2762_zps7cc32f37.jpg&hash=efd0b0a21c7b780a541844e87716a61a85d1e57d) (http://s837.photobucket.com/user/midamcrossrds/media/100_2762_zps7cc32f37.jpg.html)
That photo reminds me of The Matrix: Reloaded.
Columbus looks pretty good from the west, either from 670 or from 70's elevated section. I also like seeing downtown from the south, particularly in rural areas in the Scioto Valley. 104 in extreme northern Pickaway County has a couple of good views. Sometimes at night at the north end of the freeway section of 23 at Chillicothe I think I can see a bit of the Columbus skyline, but maybe that's my imagination augmenting some antennas.
I-20 approaching Atlanta at the Six Flags exit. I would link GSV but the picture really doesn't do it justice.
Quote from: TheStranger on February 12, 2015, 11:53:44 AM
I feel the approaches from the south are a lot more dramatic:
US 101/I-80 split at the Central Freeway:
https://www.google.com/maps/@37.766176,-122.404893,3a,75y,352.92h,78.22t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sJDc4WzdCInHEbGOLbHo0-w!2e0
Yes, this one.
Also S.F. seen from the Golden Gate Bridge:
https://maps.google.com/maps?q=San+Francisco,+CA&ll=37.817022,-122.478387&spn=0.012883,0.016544&cid=5354801294080388607&hnear=San+Francisco,+San+Francisco+County,+California&t=h&z=16&layer=c&cbll=37.817022,-122.478387&panoid=FhqHU4OSrh832jNLskxVHQ&cbp=12,115.31,,0,-1.63 (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=San+Francisco,+CA&ll=37.817022,-122.478387&spn=0.012883,0.016544&cid=5354801294080388607&hnear=San+Francisco,+San+Francisco+County,+California&t=h&z=16&layer=c&cbll=37.817022,-122.478387&panoid=FhqHU4OSrh832jNLskxVHQ&cbp=12,115.31,,0,-1.63)
Seattle from I-5 northbound:
https://maps.google.com/maps?q=seattle&hl=en&ll=47.577821,-122.319224&spn=0.00391,0.004136&sll=37.819158,-122.478526&sspn=0.013154,0.016544&t=h&hnear=Seattle,+King+County,+Washington&z=18&layer=c&cbll=47.577956,-122.319185&panoid=q7LEZl-MgL8hXGMMzefzzQ&cbp=12,341.02,,0,-3.15 (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=seattle&hl=en&ll=47.577821,-122.319224&spn=0.00391,0.004136&sll=37.819158,-122.478526&sspn=0.013154,0.016544&t=h&hnear=Seattle,+King+County,+Washington&z=18&layer=c&cbll=47.577956,-122.319185&panoid=q7LEZl-MgL8hXGMMzefzzQ&cbp=12,341.02,,0,-3.15)
Sunrise, Mt. Rainier:
https://maps.google.com/maps?q=sunrise,+mt+rainier,+wa&hl=en&ll=46.916195,-121.614532&spn=0.002521,0.008272&sll=47.57282,-122.273712&sspn=0.352068,0.529404&t=h&hnear=Sunrise&z=17&layer=c&cbll=46.916196,-121.614534&panoid=iieJ-Hnfme_ZH26n9uji5A&cbp=12,254.22,,0,0.23 (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=sunrise,+mt+rainier,+wa&hl=en&ll=46.916195,-121.614532&spn=0.002521,0.008272&sll=47.57282,-122.273712&sspn=0.352068,0.529404&t=h&hnear=Sunrise&z=17&layer=c&cbll=46.916196,-121.614534&panoid=iieJ-Hnfme_ZH26n9uji5A&cbp=12,254.22,,0,0.23)
I've always liked the view of Chicago's skyline from Lake Shore Drive.
http://goo.gl/maps/6dgN6
The ramp from I-580 WB to I-980 SB in Oakland, CA: you get a close-up of the Oakland skyline and San Francisco across the bay.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=37.823784,-122.268378&spn=0.000003,0.002064&t=h&z=20&layer=c&cbll=37.823784,-122.268378&panoid=7uuWJjMHX-5SCk__AO-PsA&cbp=12,220.21,,0,4.04 (https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=37.823784,-122.268378&spn=0.000003,0.002064&t=h&z=20&layer=c&cbll=37.823784,-122.268378&panoid=7uuWJjMHX-5SCk__AO-PsA&cbp=12,220.21,,0,4.04)
Quote from: OCGuy81 on February 12, 2015, 12:35:23 PM
I've always liked the view of Chicago's skyline from Lake Shore Drive.
http://goo.gl/maps/6dgN6
Gotta love the "curve - reduce speed" sign posted by CDOT in there as well.
Montreal from the Pont Victoria is another nice view, especially at night, though driving over that bridge requires enough concentration that I've never gotten to enjoy the view as much as I might like.
https://www.google.com/maps/@45.494334,-73.521899,3a,75y,297.58h,87.56t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1s1mMhmfhgDP7JPsHNJg8UMA!2e0
(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8383/8572140305_95a6437c42_c.jpg)
This view of Dallas.
Manhattan from the BQE. Northbound at night. Sublime.
The Lincoln Tunnel approach on the Jersey side comes a close second.
More great views from the Queens-Midtown Tunnel approach, Triborough Bridge, Queensboro Bridge, and some parts of FDR Drive. NYC is not lacking in great skyline views.
In other cities, the southbound connector in Atlanta with the midtown skyline to your left and downtown in front is pretty awesome, particularly now after so much of midtown has been recently built up.
Chicago from the Dan Ryan up to the Kennedy.
Miami from the I-95 exit 2C (Downtown/Miami Ave) ramp.
Yes the WB LIE heading into the Toll Plaza for the Queens- Midtown Tunnel from the viaduct west of the BQE is impressive.
Then the view of Manhattan from the Staten Island Ferry is awesome, especially at night when all the office lights are turned on in each skyscraper.
Quote from: roadman65 on February 12, 2015, 02:24:18 PM
Yes the WB LIE heading into the Toll Plaza for the Queens- Midtown Tunnel from the viaduct west of the BQE is impressive.
Then the view of Manhattan from the Staten Island Ferry is awesome, especially at night when all the office lights are turned on in each skyscraper.
I used to look forward so eagerly to coming up the Gowanus at night to that turn westward at the Prospect Expressway, where it climbs over the Gowanus Canal. Lower Manhattan stood just close enough, with the World Trade Center so impossibly big at the center of the view. It is hard to feel as good about it now, even with the various replacement buildings there now.
This is a cool view of Boston from Burlington, MA on I-95: https://www.google.com/maps/@42.488215,-71.191849,3a,15y,142.15h,90.01t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sdz7zTnAhdJ5fx2Skxjv_ew!2e0
I've also seen Boston from I-90 eastbound just before the I-95 interchange.
Love the view of San Diego from Coronado!
http://goo.gl/maps/6aJ5c
Some of my favorites of Dallas.
http://goo.gl/maps/RkoVQ - south end of the DNT over I-35E
http://goo.gl/maps/RRydc - I-35E SB to Woodall Rodgers EB ramp
http://goo.gl/maps/7mnJ4 - I-345
http://goo.gl/maps/eJLce - I-30 EB to I-35E NB ramp
Quote from: kkt on February 12, 2015, 12:27:44 PM
Seattle from I-5 northbound:
https://maps.google.com/maps?q=seattle&hl=en&ll=47.577821,-122.319224&spn=0.00391,0.004136&sll=37.819158,-122.478526&sspn=0.013154,0.016544&t=h&hnear=Seattle,+King+County,+Washington&z=18&layer=c&cbll=47.577956,-122.319185&panoid=q7LEZl-MgL8hXGMMzefzzQ&cbp=12,341.02,,0,-3.15 (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=seattle&hl=en&ll=47.577821,-122.319224&spn=0.00391,0.004136&sll=37.819158,-122.478526&sspn=0.013154,0.016544&t=h&hnear=Seattle,+King+County,+Washington&z=18&layer=c&cbll=47.577956,-122.319185&panoid=q7LEZl-MgL8hXGMMzefzzQ&cbp=12,341.02,,0,-3.15)
I'd argue the winner for that would be I-5 SB over the Lake WA SCB.
https://goo.gl/maps/4sIbR
Other cool shots of Seattle:
SR-520 WB. EB, you can see Bellevue too, closer to UW.
https://goo.gl/maps/WeQLX
Ever since the Columbia Center installed the LED lights earlier this year, it gives Seattle an eerie futuristic feel driving across Lake Washington from Eastside at night.
I-90 EB for Bellevue (you can also see the Columbia Tower in Seattle if you look to the west).
https://goo.gl/maps/9mBYp
Harbor Ave near Alki Beach has a nice view of the city center
https://goo.gl/maps/wOZRk
All freeways into Chicago have excellent views of the skyline. This Google Maps view doesn't do it justice, but the view coming in to the city on I-55 I freaking love every morning.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=41.837839,-87.666462&spn=0.002809,0.006486&t=h&z=18&layer=c&cbll=41.837838,-87.66646&panoid=XEToqKobFDUUmP2YfjmM9g&cbp=12,22.73,,1,-2.52
Eastbound I-196 coming into Grand Rapids, just past the Lake Michigan Drive exit.
I-5 (both directions), I-405 (from Fremont Bridge top deck) and westbound I-84 all have great views of various points of downtown Portland.
I agree with those that mentioned any view of the Chicago skyline from any of the inbound freeways. My fave was always the view from the Dan Ryan right at the I-55/McCormick Place Interchange. Growing up in the NW suburbs I only got to see it from that angle a few times a year coming home from trips (luckily for us kids my dad shunpiked the Tri-State Tollway every chance he got).
+1 to the mention of Grand Rapids from I-196 as well- I haven't seen it since July 1979 myself, I am sure its even more spectacular now!
Quote from: jeffandnicole on February 11, 2015, 10:45:12 PM
Two views that aren't from highways:
One of my favorite view of Philly comes from an unassuming site about 10 miles away from the city. It appears to be a cloudy day so the city isn't viewable in this link: http://goo.gl/maps/7WLuB , but the view can be impressive at night, mostly as you wouldn't think you would be that close to the city.
Another view of a Philly landmark that frames perfectly between the trees is this: http://goo.gl/maps/HNcTr Assuming the link comes up zoomed in (if it doesn't, zoom it in yourself), you are looking at the Cira Building next to 30th Street Station. Again, it's more impressive at night with its various lights lit. As the crow flies, you're about 8 miles away from the building.
I always liked this view of Philly from Jersey myself: https://goo.gl/maps/DelgK (https://goo.gl/maps/DelgK)
Cheating a bit, but nothing beats the cool breeze on the Delaware at the Camden Waterfront with great view of Philadelphia:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FbkaNnv8.png&hash=b1350fe122cdd374c8379f6db1210c5fd80b3f83)
Quote from: GaryV on February 13, 2015, 06:32:57 AM
Eastbound I-196 coming into Grand Rapids, just past the Lake Michigan Drive exit.
http://710studio.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/grandRapidsNight.jpg
Seattle, from the top of the Alaskan Way Viaduct (SR 99).
Portland, from the top of the Freemont Bridge, especial on the western end, as I-405 drops to below grade. It always makes me feel like I'm in a Tie Fighter heading for the trench of the Death Star™.
Flint, from the upper ramps of the stack interchange between I-75 and I-475.
Chicago from the Skyway just before the Dan Ryan.
Quote from: BamaZeus on February 12, 2015, 12:14:00 PM
I-20 approaching Atlanta at the Six Flags exit. I would link GSV but the picture really doesn't do it justice.
You beat me to it.
There's also an impressive view of the New Orleans skyline from I-10 east of the I-55 interchange, and of San Diego from California 75.
My faves (most have to be on days with good visibility)-
Chicago- I personally love the view from the Tri-State looking east anywhere between the Bensenville bridge and the Hillside Strangler, especially near the railyard south of Lake Street where there is nothing to block your view. Especially in the morning on a sunny day when all you see is a wall of buildings approx. 15 miles to your east. Shows how extensive the skyline of Chicago is. BTW I looked on Google maps for an example and it must have been hazy that day- you can't see anything.
Milwaukee- been said, but the view from the Hoan Bridge on I-794 is impressive. If I were in business trying to sell the city to someone, I would take this route from the airport every single time.
Madison- John Nolen Drive, hands down. But a really good view coming in on WIS-30 westbound after the Badger interchange as well.
Minneapolis- view from the hill southbound on I-35W in Burnsville sloping down towards the Minnesota River. Also, can't beat the views from I-35W north from the Crosstown to I-94 or even on I-394 eastbound.
Rochester, MN- US52 coming in from the south near the 11th Ave SE exit.
St. Louis- coming down the bluff/hill at Collinsville on I-55/70 at IL-157. Really good views of the skyline on I-55/64 from the I-55/64/70 interchange inbound to the PSB.
Jacksonville- from the Buckman Bridge on I-295 over the St. Johns River
Indianapolis- on Michigan Rd. south of I-465. I-65 from the north has some nice views as well.
Toronto- eastbound on the Gardiner
Nashville- some nice views from the Briley Parkway between I-65 and I-40.
One more from Philly. The view of the skyline from the ramp from 95 to 676 esp at night is really cool:
https://www.google.com/maps/@39.957092,-75.152442,3a,45.2y,246.58h,88.57t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sR7R6pELge7s886m9qG740w!2e0?hl=en
Downtown Orlando via I-4 westbound:
https://www.google.com/maps/@28.551515,-81.382717,3a,75y,180h,90t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1s-TzZbzf1oaDUqRiAN_Cr7w!2e0?hl=en
https://www.google.com/maps/@28.549249,-81.382664,3a,75y,180h,90t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sY_ot1NBJHkwLHWoWQpcXMg!2e0?hl=en
Downtown Jacksonville via I-95:
https://www.google.com/maps/@30.31503,-81.670181,3a,90y,86.71h,92.34t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1szBQHmsXA8vWGS4NSuKgCxg!2e0?hl=en
I 10 east approaching I-110 interchange has a dramatic view of Downtown Los Angeles.
I think one of the best views from LA is from the high-level ramp from the HOV lanes on the 105 Freeway to the 110 Northbound
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.asphaltplanet.ca%2FCA%2FI%2F110%2FI110_CA_cl_14_north.jpg&hash=a179f6114f3ff96754003b8239335152569a360f)
There are also great views of downtown LA from the south end of Crenshaw Blvd travelling North from Palos Verdes
Also great views of Irvine from CA 241 toll rd
Quote from: kendancy66 on February 24, 2015, 11:28:24 PM
There are also great views of downtown LA from the south end of Crenshaw Blvd travelling North from Palos Verdes
Also great views of Irvine from CA 241 toll rd
Also from the Glendale Freeway coming south out of the Verdugo Mountains
Kansas City, MO, westbound on I-70 near I-435: https://goo.gl/maps/fdyTd
Street View does it no justice. Make sure you're zoomed in.
Sylvan Ave Bridge in Dallas. Also, Hampton Rd bridge over I-30 may be the best view of the Dallas skyline period.
The Downtown Connector (I-75/I-85) will definitely give you the best of Atlanta's views.
Here's a farther away one (going Northbound): https://www.google.com/maps/@33.734964,-84.391887,3a,75y,4.41h,92.43t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sl-7hnVtn40ek19pkHB1VRw!2e0
And here's a closer one (going Southbound): https://www.google.com/maps/@33.773839,-84.390354,3a,75y,176.75h,96.76t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1s7bOnaFOYyiR94nb9hKIE5g!2e0
It's a pretty good view you get of Rochester from I-490: https://goo.gl/maps/hQsH7
But better still is the Ford St. Bridge, particularly as a pedestrian. Everyone knows this is the best spot to watch fireworks–if you can find room. Here's the Street View, but check out nearby user photos for a better idea: https://goo.gl/maps/W5dyd
Quote from: roadman65 on February 12, 2015, 02:24:18 PM
Yes the WB LIE heading into the Toll Plaza for the Queens- Midtown Tunnel from the viaduct west of the BQE is impressive.
Then the view of Manhattan from the Staten Island Ferry is awesome, especially at night when all the office lights are turned on in each skyscraper.
Also, the ramp to the LIE from the westbound BQE has a good view.
I've done street view on Memorial Drive in Houston, TX quite a few times. This road gets a crazy good view of the Houston skyline:
https://www.google.com/maps/@29.762062,-95.387495,3a,75y,110.69h,81t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1s-TjOAVGHx8SdC_4cVNsdUQ!2e0
Pittsburgh coming out of the Ft Pitt tunnel is a personal favorite but this is the sentimental best (Columbus from I-70):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ftapatalk.imageshack.com%2Fv2%2F15%2F03%2F03%2F492ecee2e0787d30610778375f1e8188.jpg&hash=561c79efd4272d64691fd470c2dd191be33db5d9)
Quote from: AsphaltPlanet on February 14, 2015, 08:56:31 PM
I think one of the best views from LA is from the high-level ramp from the HOV lanes on the 105 Freeway to the 110 Northbound
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.asphaltplanet.ca%2FCA%2FI%2F110%2FI110_CA_cl_14_north.jpg&hash=a179f6114f3ff96754003b8239335152569a360f)
This really takes me back...
San Diego from I-5 southbound is pretty good too.
I know eastbound I-376/Fort Pitt Bridge is the most widely known skyline view of Pittsburgh, but the view from I-279 southbound is just as impressive in my opinion. You are driving in a valley, and once you round a bend...
https://www.google.com/maps/@40.4655443,-80.0000373,3a,75y,159.31h,96.35t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1sBXpq5x9e-M90dKu9oFE-dA!2e0!6s%2F%2Fgeo0.ggpht.com%2Fcbk%3Fpanoid%3DBXpq5x9e-M90dKu9oFE-dA%26output%3Dthumbnail%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26thumb%3D2%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D213.11794%26pitch%3D0!7i3328!8i1664 (https://www.google.com/maps/@40.4655443,-80.0000373,3a,75y,159.31h,96.35t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1sBXpq5x9e-M90dKu9oFE-dA!2e0!6s%2F%2Fgeo0.ggpht.com%2Fcbk%3Fpanoid%3DBXpq5x9e-M90dKu9oFE-dA%26output%3Dthumbnail%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26thumb%3D2%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D213.11794%26pitch%3D0!7i3328!8i1664)
The view from westbound I-376 is also impressive for similar reasons...
https://www.google.com/maps/@40.427571,-79.953574,3a,75y,295.88h,85.64t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sz0U27MIglQe_QIyjU1nAbA!2e0 (https://www.google.com/maps/@40.427571,-79.953574,3a,75y,295.88h,85.64t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sz0U27MIglQe_QIyjU1nAbA!2e0)
Quote from: 1995hoo on February 12, 2015, 11:23:48 AM
I'm not finding a good Street View image and I do not have a photo, but there's a spot on the eastbound George Washington Memorial Parkway where you glimpse Washington DC down the Potomac gorge in the distance, with the Washington Monument, the Kennedy Center, and the Watergate all plainly visible.
I got you. (https://www.google.com/maps/@38.90852,-77.098984,3a,20.7y,110.17h,87.43t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sAFuObhnELZpWrhkbMRayWQ!2e0) I know this moment well.
Quote from: JakeFromNewEngland on February 12, 2015, 03:25:45 PM
This is a cool view of Boston from Burlington, MA on I-95: https://www.google.com/maps/@42.488215,-71.191849,3a,15y,142.15h,90.01t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sdz7zTnAhdJ5fx2Skxjv_ew!2e0
I've also seen Boston from I-90 eastbound just before the I-95 interchange.
Boston from I-93 (https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/1904241_10101966600543559_4799638768707774270_n.jpg?oh=a39aa7b73cfb8121b7fb726fcdfaaca6&oe=5572ED30&__gda__=1438247695_57967e398f7085bffa2f46358bd6a447) as well.
Another one I've always liked is New Orleans way off in the distance from the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway (https://www.google.com/maps/@30.043012,-90.15007,3a,39.8y,147.16h,85.27t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sEYObETBRw-frrTWzhZ23Dw!2e0%5B/url). Almost seems like it's floating on the water.
Jacksonville from I-295/Dames Point Bridge...
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3646/3456734890_170304ee80_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/6gsERq)
Jacksonville, FL (https://flic.kr/p/6gsERq) by jmd41280 (https://www.flickr.com/people/91396833@N00/), on Flickr
Pittsburgh from I-376 westbound...
(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8026/7187874342_bcd4036a92_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/bXaJBY)
Pittsburgh Skyline from I-376 (https://flic.kr/p/bXaJBY) by jmd41280 (https://www.flickr.com/people/91396833@N00/), on Flickr
Quote from: Darkchylde on February 25, 2015, 01:41:50 AM
Kansas City, MO, westbound on I-70 near I-435: https://goo.gl/maps/fdyTd
Street View does it no justice. Make sure you're zoomed in.
I like the eastbound view, framed by the overheads:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.formulanone.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2012%2F04%2FKansasCity-BGSabove.jpg&hash=df8d119b11534c9cf064e356f30aad398db735f8)
Nashville is surprisingly full of unexpected Downtown views.
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/59624_787439452879_472653_n.jpg?oh=ffbe7b094d2ea478216b1ad7522659dc&oe=557A23A2&__gda__=1435022727_dd48dabdb1d109fa3d7b0f7c85ae9a4d)
Bernard Ave by Belmont University.
(https://scontent-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/v/t1.0-9/252184_10100144344663949_5253748_n.jpg?oh=9620dd4af131b3877333c5f0668c8bd4&oe=5579A719)
Parthenon Ave by Centennial Park.
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/310763_10100193655185269_1270163426_n.jpg?oh=ed0e2ac57bba436483b8ec359af9333e&oe=5585CE36&__gda__=1435257145_a16ec2dbfe7bda2d4a28cc3f2a45a985)
Batavia St near the TSU campus.
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/317334_10100163487097359_6924414_n.jpg?oh=11a548f6f53e6d4376e3ceb249d1261c&oe=55BBB261&__gda__=1438438064_630cc9d47a5589fb3728fb2cd4b3fffb)
Woodland St in East Nashville.
There's also that moment where you can just about catch the Cleveland skyline from I-480 on a clear day.
https://www.google.com/maps/@41.409889,-81.626814,3a,50.9y,329.71h,75.78t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1siSdxh2SekkcAiF7Od566sQ!2e0!5m1!1e4
Quote from: wphiii on March 09, 2015, 01:38:20 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on February 12, 2015, 11:23:48 AM
I'm not finding a good Street View image and I do not have a photo, but there's a spot on the eastbound George Washington Memorial Parkway where you glimpse Washington DC down the Potomac gorge in the distance, with the Washington Monument, the Kennedy Center, and the Watergate all plainly visible.
I got you. (https://www.google.com/maps/@38.90852,-77.098984,3a,20.7y,110.17h,87.43t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sAFuObhnELZpWrhkbMRayWQ!2e0) I know this moment well.
....
Thanks! That is indeed the view. I was trying to find it from the other side of the road, given that that's how you see it when you're driving, but this is a better Street View image than I was finding.
Echoing many sentiments already posted here...
The ever-growing Chicago skyline as you go eastbound on the Eisenhower Expressway (I-290).
One I'll be seeing in a month or so: the view of Cincinnati from I-71/75 Northbound as you head downhill, made better by the fact you're in a different state when you see it.
If the weather allows it, you can see the Chicago Skyline from the westbound Chicago Skyway from the peak of the Calumet River bridge and as you head downhill. Good views can also be grabbed from the Inbound Dan Ryan (northbound) and Inbound Kennedy Expressway (southbound).
Another one: you can get good shots of the Indianapolis skyline from I-65 from both directions (southbound once you get a mile and change south of crossing the White River, northbound just as you approach the "South Split" of I-65/70).
A good one is I-75 Northbound in Detroit at the River Rouge Bridge. A good view of both Downtown Detroit and the Ambassador Bridge.
Though not from a freeway, the view of Downtown Pittsburgh coming down Bigelow Blvd. is very impressive...
https://www.google.com/maps/@40.448583,-79.983971,3a,75y,252.97h,82.3t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sn2nWGl_uSS0Xz7yOQ5Hhsw!2e0 (https://www.google.com/maps/@40.448583,-79.983971,3a,75y,252.97h,82.3t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sn2nWGl_uSS0Xz7yOQ5Hhsw!2e0)
The view of Harrisburg, PA from the I-83 bridge over the Susquehanna River is nice too...
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3145/2852979427_1a89784598_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/5m7got)
Harrisburg, PA (https://flic.kr/p/5m7got) by jmd41280 (https://www.flickr.com/people/91396833@N00/), on Flickr
Also not from a freeway, but there is also a nice view of Center City Philadelphia from the Baltimore Pike in nearby Lansdowne, PA...
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7247/7633350156_27471ed9df_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/cCwV4s)
Philadelphia, PA (https://flic.kr/p/cCwV4s) by jmd41280 (https://www.flickr.com/people/91396833@N00/), on Flickr
Another really cool shot of New York City from New Jersey, this time on NJ 3 heading towards the Lincoln Tunnel: https://www.google.com/maps/@40.797812,-74.067315,3a,15.4y,121.27h,89.33t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1svkok2-LlZIyaHS_r4W-VQQ!2e0
I always enjoyed the view from the New Jersey Turnpike/I-95 at Laurel Hill of the NYC skyline. You can pretty much see the whole expanse of Manhattan from that point (as long as you don't mind all the powerline pylons and industrial sites in the foreground)...
https://www.google.com/maps/@40.757102,-74.090114,3a,75y,88.88h,86.18t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1soMpNYvRR_RLZgLdMG5nXoQ!2e0 (https://www.google.com/maps/@40.757102,-74.090114,3a,75y,88.88h,86.18t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1soMpNYvRR_RLZgLdMG5nXoQ!2e0)
Heading south on Arizona 51 approaching Northern Avenue, you get a brief view of downtown Phoenix off in the distance.
Many have mentioned favorite views of Chicago. Mine is from several spots along Lake Shore Drive, like this one: https://www.google.com/maps/@41.866546,-87.619193,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sa5qfVc-kD_jU2hbhQMkckQ!2e0?hl=en (https://www.google.com/maps/@41.866546,-87.619193,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sa5qfVc-kD_jU2hbhQMkckQ!2e0?hl=en)
I almost always make sure any trip includes an approach along LSD. Regrettably, I'm usually driving and traffic is heavy, so I only get fleeting glances.
Quote from: theline on March 11, 2015, 07:21:06 PM
Many have mentioned favorite views of Chicago. Mine is from several spots along Lake Shore Drive, like this one: https://www.google.com/maps/@41.866546,-87.619193,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sa5qfVc-kD_jU2hbhQMkckQ!2e0?hl=en (https://www.google.com/maps/@41.866546,-87.619193,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sa5qfVc-kD_jU2hbhQMkckQ!2e0?hl=en)
I almost always make sure any trip includes an approach along LSD. Regrettably, I'm usually driving and traffic is heavy, so I only get fleeting glances.
You should never drive on LSD. The car is liable to melt.
Quote from: Pete from Boston on March 11, 2015, 08:59:51 PM
Quote from: theline on March 11, 2015, 07:21:06 PM
Many have mentioned favorite views of Chicago. Mine is from several spots along Lake Shore Drive, like this one: https://www.google.com/maps/@41.866546,-87.619193,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sa5qfVc-kD_jU2hbhQMkckQ!2e0?hl=en (https://www.google.com/maps/@41.866546,-87.619193,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sa5qfVc-kD_jU2hbhQMkckQ!2e0?hl=en)
I almost always make sure any trip includes an approach along LSD. Regrettably, I'm usually driving and traffic is heavy, so I only get fleeting glances.
You should never drive on LSD. The car is liable to melt.
Plus, the road begins to sing to you...
Quote from: jmd41280 on March 12, 2015, 06:17:05 PM
Quote from: Pete from Boston on March 11, 2015, 08:59:51 PM
Quote from: theline on March 11, 2015, 07:21:06 PM
Many have mentioned favorite views of Chicago. Mine is from several spots along Lake Shore Drive, like this one: https://www.google.com/maps/@41.866546,-87.619193,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sa5qfVc-kD_jU2hbhQMkckQ!2e0?hl=en (https://www.google.com/maps/@41.866546,-87.619193,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sa5qfVc-kD_jU2hbhQMkckQ!2e0?hl=en)
I almost always make sure any trip includes an approach along LSD. Regrettably, I'm usually driving and traffic is heavy, so I only get fleeting glances.
You should never drive on LSD. The car is liable to melt.
Plus, the road begins to sing to you...
The view can be groovy, unless you get a bad trip. :crazy:
I'll stop now.
Quote from: jmd41280 on March 12, 2015, 06:17:05 PM
Quote from: Pete from Boston on March 11, 2015, 08:59:51 PM
Quote from: theline on March 11, 2015, 07:21:06 PM
Many have mentioned favorite views of Chicago. Mine is from several spots along Lake Shore Drive, like this one: https://www.google.com/maps/@41.866546,-87.619193,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sa5qfVc-kD_jU2hbhQMkckQ!2e0?hl=en (https://www.google.com/maps/@41.866546,-87.619193,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sa5qfVc-kD_jU2hbhQMkckQ!2e0?hl=en)
I almost always make sure any trip includes an approach along LSD. Regrettably, I'm usually driving and traffic is heavy, so I only get fleeting glances.
You should never drive on LSD. The car is liable to melt.
Plus, the road begins to sing to you...
Actually, the road melts, the traffic lights sing, and road signs laugh at you...so I'm told.
A nice view of Dallas from the I-35E northbound ramp from I-20 east:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.formulanone.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2011%2F06%2FDallasSkyline.jpg&hash=80cc4c722e2ae35e1ccb4990770622ed183092b0)
Charlotte from the I-77/I-485 south junction...
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7251/7113644291_42419af07f_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/bQBhBv)
Charlotte Skyline from I-77/I-485 South Junction (https://flic.kr/p/bQBhBv) by jmd41280 (https://www.flickr.com/people/91396833@N00/), on Flickr
Charlotte from I-77...
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7058/6967580018_73e84ec8d3_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/bBGEMY)
Charlotte, NC (https://flic.kr/p/bBGEMY) by jmd41280 (https://www.flickr.com/people/91396833@N00/), on Flickr
Quote from: jmd41280 on March 11, 2015, 03:20:58 PM
Also not from a freeway, but there is also a nice view of Center City Philadelphia from the Baltimore Pike in nearby Lansdowne, PA...
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7247/7633350156_27471ed9df_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/cCwV4s)
Philadelphia, PA (https://flic.kr/p/cCwV4s) by jmd41280 (https://www.flickr.com/people/91396833@N00/), on Flickr
Nice shot. I'm guessing that was taken from about here.
https://www.google.com/maps?ll=39.93831,-75.271766&spn=0.000001,0.000649&t=h&z=21&layer=c&cbll=39.93831,-75.271893&panoid=rkkwqpVmyoeQWjXooFaOFQ&cbp=12,85.06,,0,-5.94 (https://www.google.com/maps?ll=39.93831,-75.271766&spn=0.000001,0.000649&t=h&z=21&layer=c&cbll=39.93831,-75.271893&panoid=rkkwqpVmyoeQWjXooFaOFQ&cbp=12,85.06,,0,-5.94)
Quote from: Roadrunner75 on March 12, 2015, 10:55:34 PM
Quote from: jmd41280 on March 11, 2015, 03:20:58 PM
Also not from a freeway, but there is also a nice view of Center City Philadelphia from the Baltimore Pike in nearby Lansdowne, PA...
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7247/7633350156_27471ed9df_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/cCwV4s)
Philadelphia, PA (https://flic.kr/p/cCwV4s) by jmd41280 (https://www.flickr.com/people/91396833@N00/), on Flickr
Nice shot. I'm guessing that was taken from about here.
https://www.google.com/maps?ll=39.93831,-75.271766&spn=0.000001,0.000649&t=h&z=21&layer=c&cbll=39.93831,-75.271893&panoid=rkkwqpVmyoeQWjXooFaOFQ&cbp=12,85.06,,0,-5.94 (https://www.google.com/maps?ll=39.93831,-75.271766&spn=0.000001,0.000649&t=h&z=21&layer=c&cbll=39.93831,-75.271893&panoid=rkkwqpVmyoeQWjXooFaOFQ&cbp=12,85.06,,0,-5.94)
Thanks! That is exactly the spot where I took that photo.
Quote from: jmd41280 on March 12, 2015, 09:30:49 PM
Charlotte from the I-77/I-485 south junction...
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7251/7113644291_42419af07f_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/bQBhBv)
Charlotte Skyline from I-77/I-485 South Junction (https://flic.kr/p/bQBhBv) by jmd41280 (https://www.flickr.com/people/91396833@N00/), on Flickr
Figures they're some idiot Ohioan clogging the road in front of you :)
Overpasses are the best. For example, here's some from I-5 in Seattle:
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7098/14027829014_daa7ca0d19_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/nnAhQW)
I-5 north from Yesler Way (https://flic.kr/p/nnAhQW) by SounderBruce (https://www.flickr.com/people/70175722@N04/), on Flickr
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5573/14048152949_97c2bbbe3f_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/nposrB)
I-5 from Lakeview Boulevard (https://flic.kr/p/nposrB) by SounderBruce (https://www.flickr.com/people/70175722@N04/), on Flickr
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5476/14293488376_e8a7719867_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/nM4S7L)
I-5 northbound from Holgate Street (https://flic.kr/p/nM4S7L) by SounderBruce (https://www.flickr.com/people/70175722@N04/), on Flickr
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5313/14313247881_981b5a0d92_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/nNP8VT)
Seattle skyline from 45th Street (https://flic.kr/p/nNP8VT) by SounderBruce (https://www.flickr.com/people/70175722@N04/), on Flickr
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5526/14461649073_aef4c841e6_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/o2VJr8)
I-5 southbound from Olive Way (https://flic.kr/p/o2VJr8) by SounderBruce (https://www.flickr.com/people/70175722@N04/), on Flickr
While you can't see anything here in StreetView ( http://goo.gl/maps/pF8TM ), this is one of my personal favorite locations to see the Toronto skyline when it's clear out on the QEW. When you have a clear night, this view is spectacular.
First view of Portland's skyline on I-5 north, top of the Wells Fargo Tower:
https://www.google.com/maps/@45.476472,-122.678709,3a,75y,346.68h,85.74t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1s7Q8mZbCKGuvFIORzH9KDng!2e0
Glimpse of the South Waterfront skyline (under the north half of the Corbett Ave overpass):
https://www.google.com/maps/@45.48843,-122.677056,3a,75y,37.51h,84.35t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1snxSCRwLVDY1rPpP6Ou-PuQ!2e0
South Waterfront skyline sweeps into view: https://www.google.com/maps/@45.489186,-122.676092,3a,75y,36.68h,84.52t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1skcRmFD5_1dNCzjKyHGuuHA!2e0
South Waterfront District, Portland:
https://www.google.com/maps/@45.493048,-122.673548,3a,75y,23.05h,87.32t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1scOQ1f0H5dOXX45_ZecGmFA!2e0
While we're here... Can someone do a CalTrans mockup of this BGS?
https://www.google.com/maps/@45.49757,-122.67325,3a,75y,1.57h,87.43t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sOoLVqYktcLNNEVu3ZwS7yA!2e0
Wells Fargo and Koin Towers from the ramp to the Marquam Bridge:
https://www.google.com/maps/@45.502663,-122.67323,3a,75y,1.57h,87.43t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sSr3gg70IiJ__Im1dlkm7VA!2e0
Quote from: Bruce on March 14, 2015, 03:56:53 PM
Overpasses are the best. For example, here's some from I-5 in Seattle:
I've seen that same view from I-5 before, and it is very impressive indeed. Although not from a *land* highway (and I am taking creative liberties w/ the concept of a road here), the view of the skyline from the Bainbridge Island ferry route is amazing as well.
Quote from: Bickendan on March 17, 2015, 03:39:22 PM
First view of Portland's skyline on I-5 north, top of the Wells Fargo Tower:
https://www.google.com/maps/@45.476472,-122.678709,3a,75y,346.68h,85.74t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1s7Q8mZbCKGuvFIORzH9KDng!2e0
Which brings up an interesting side question: Where is the earliest (most distant) "first view" of a skyline from a particular road?
Quote from: empirestate on March 17, 2015, 08:52:35 PM
Quote from: Bickendan on March 17, 2015, 03:39:22 PM
First view of Portland's skyline on I-5 north, top of the Wells Fargo Tower:
https://www.google.com/maps/@45.476472,-122.678709,3a,75y,346.68h,85.74t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1s7Q8mZbCKGuvFIORzH9KDng!2e0
Which brings up an interesting side question: Where is the earliest (most distant) "first view" of a skyline from a particular road?
This is Toronto's along the QEW.
Quote from: rickmastfan67 on March 15, 2015, 01:22:35 AM
While you can't see anything here in StreetView ( http://goo.gl/maps/pF8TM ), this is one of my personal favorite locations to see the Toronto skyline when it's clear out on the QEW. When you have a clear night, this view is spectacular.
Vegas has many "distant views" (20-30 miles out) - especially from US-95 EB or from I-15 either way.
I'm partial to the view of lower Manhattan from the BQE (http://goo.gl/maps/28Usl)
Or, if you're in the mid-South, how about the view of Memphis sprouting from the floodplain and riverbank from I-40 (http://goo.gl/maps/pXCqf) or even I-55 (http://goo.gl/maps/rvSfC)?
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on March 18, 2015, 08:24:24 AM
Or, if you're in the mid-South, how about the view of Memphis sprouting from the floodplain and riverbank from I-40 (http://goo.gl/maps/pXCqf) or even I-55 (http://goo.gl/maps/rvSfC)?
Along those lines, I've always liked the "Oz effect" of Winnipeg rising out of the Canadian prairie. Hard to find a good shot on Street View (https://www.google.com/maps/@50.0066,-97.090717,3a,15y,195.7h,87.56t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sBAD5QLuz7tnw8fpXKgbLXA!2e0), but this photo (https://deepfriar.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/1-9-winnipeg-skyline1.jpg) (not mine) gives a good idea.
Quote from: empirestate on March 17, 2015, 08:52:35 PM
Quote from: Bickendan on March 17, 2015, 03:39:22 PM
First view of Portland's skyline on I-5 north, top of the Wells Fargo Tower:
https://www.google.com/maps/@45.476472,-122.678709,3a,75y,346.68h,85.74t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1s7Q8mZbCKGuvFIORzH9KDng!2e0
Which brings up an interesting side question: Where is the earliest (most distant) "first view" of a skyline from a particular road?
You can see Downtown Houston from an I-45 overpass about 30 miles north on a clear day (at the FM 2920 exit)
Quote from: empirestate on March 17, 2015, 08:52:35 PM
Quote from: Bickendan on March 17, 2015, 03:39:22 PM
First view of Portland's skyline on I-5 north, top of the Wells Fargo Tower:
https://www.google.com/maps/@45.476472,-122.678709,3a,75y,346.68h,85.74t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1s7Q8mZbCKGuvFIORzH9KDng!2e0 (https://www.google.com/maps/@45.476472,-122.678709,3a,75y,346.68h,85.74t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1s7Q8mZbCKGuvFIORzH9KDng!2e0)
Which brings up an interesting side question: Where is the earliest (most distant) "first view" of a skyline from a particular road?
I can't speak to what it looks like now, but I do remember being able to see the tops of the Sears/Willis/Whateveritsgonnabenamednow Tower and the Hancock building from as far out as the I-290/IL-53 interchange on the Adams Tollway (I had to back space and retype Adams after I first typed Northwest Tollway, if that tells you how long it's been since I've been back home, LOL). ;)
Thinking back on it,that's gotta be pretty darn near 30 miles as the crow flies. :wow:
Addams. Think Addams Family, of which Jane is related.
Quote from: empirestate on March 17, 2015, 08:52:35 PM
Where is the earliest (most distant) "first view" of a skyline from a particular road?
Quote from: vtk on February 12, 2015, 12:13:34 PM
Sometimes at night at the north end of the freeway section of 23 at Chillicothe I think I can see a bit of the Columbus skyline, but maybe that's my imagination augmenting some antennas.
Checking Google Earth, I think it's not my imagination:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fvidthekid.info%2Fimghost%2Fview-from-chilth.jpeg&hash=8e542ee0d0c89af167004e31c323f0672b14ba49)
That's 37 miles, and quite possibly the winner for Columbus.
You can see a good glimpse of downtown Minneapolis from I-35W northbound about 15 miles out. Otherwise you can't see either of the Twin Cities pretty much until you're on top of them.
Though you can't really tell from this Google Street View shot, here is the first glimpse of Pittsburgh from I-79 north. If you zoom in all the way, you can see the top of the US Steel Building on the horizon.
https://www.google.com/maps/@40.338095,-80.132536,3a,90y,44.95h,74.02t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sUPDNmqww3f-FLTV-j_dZcA!2e0 (https://www.google.com/maps/@40.338095,-80.132536,3a,90y,44.95h,74.02t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sUPDNmqww3f-FLTV-j_dZcA!2e0)
Quote from: vtk on March 18, 2015, 07:56:20 PM
Quote from: empirestate on March 17, 2015, 08:52:35 PM
Where is the earliest (most distant) "first view" of a skyline from a particular road?
Quote from: vtk on February 12, 2015, 12:13:34 PM
Sometimes at night at the north end of the freeway section of 23 at Chillicothe I think I can see a bit of the Columbus skyline, but maybe that's my imagination augmenting some antennas.
Checking Google Earth, I think it's not my imagination:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fvidthekid.info%2Fimghost%2Fview-from-chilth.jpeg&hash=8e542ee0d0c89af167004e31c323f0672b14ba49)
That's 37 miles, and quite possibly the winner for Columbus.
That's clever, can we get that for some other cities?
Quote from: empirestate on March 18, 2015, 11:26:41 PM
That's clever, can we get that for some other cities?
What I've done here is simply verify the line of sight. If you have specific candidates for long-distance skyline views but you're not sure that's really what you're seeing, I can check whether the geometry/geography is right.
Akron, Ohio, viewed from Rand St:
(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8065/8214103781_e7c93fbfa6.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/dvRqSZ)P1020026 (https://flic.kr/p/dvRqSZ) by Ryan busman_49 (https://www.flickr.com/people/23731450@N05/), on Flickr
Quote from: hm insulators on March 11, 2015, 04:07:41 PM
Heading south on Arizona 51 approaching Northern Avenue, you get a brief view of downtown Phoenix off in the distance.
Add to that South on 7th St coming out of North Mountain/Pointe at Tapitio Cliffs.
Both of these are good views at night.
My favorite view of the Chicago Skyline is from the Adler Planetarium at the end of Solidarity Dr.
http://www.bing.com/maps/?FORM=Z9LH2
Quote from: empirestate on March 17, 2015, 08:52:35 PM
Which brings up an interesting side question: Where is the earliest (most distant) "first view" of a skyline from a particular road?
Sometimes you can see the Toronto skyline from US 20A near NY 77 if the weather and foliage are cooperating. That's about 70 miles as the crow flies. The Lewiston-Queenston bridge is a sure bet, though.
Quote from: Sam on April 01, 2015, 09:16:05 PM
Quote from: empirestate on March 17, 2015, 08:52:35 PM
Which brings up an interesting side question: Where is the earliest (most distant) "first view" of a skyline from a particular road?
Sometimes you can see the Toronto skyline from US 20A near NY 77 if the weather and foliage are cooperating. That's about 70 miles as the crow flies. The Lewiston-Queenston bridge is a sure bet, though.
Agree. Saw it the other night at the Erie/Wyoming county line. Large, rapid drop in elevation just west of there. Easy to spot because it isn't Buffalo (closest) or Niagara Falls (next closest) and there are bright lights. Definitely during the day if it's clear.
I don't think there's any competition here.
US-101 south toward San Francisco exiting the tunnel right before the Golden Gate Bridge.
On a sunny, clear day, it's absolutely magnificent.
Now, of course, I can't find a proper photo of this view online.
Quote from: Sam on April 01, 2015, 09:16:05 PM
Quote from: empirestate on March 17, 2015, 08:52:35 PM
Which brings up an interesting side question: Where is the earliest (most distant) "first view" of a skyline from a particular road?
Sometimes you can see the Toronto skyline from US 20A near NY 77 if the weather and foliage are cooperating. That's about 70 miles as the crow flies. The Lewiston-Queenston bridge is a sure bet, though.
Well you can see the Sears Tower in Chicago on a clear day on the ramp from 355 South to 55 North in Bolingbrook. That's about 30 miles. On I-55 itself, you have to wait until you get to Illinois 83 Kingery Hwy.
Quote from: relaxok on April 02, 2015, 04:12:12 PM
I don't think there's any competition here.
US-101 south toward San Francisco exiting the tunnel right before the Golden Gate Bridge.
On a sunny, clear day, it's absolutely magnificent.
Now, of course, I can't find a proper photo of this view online.
This one gives some idea, although it's a night view and not from right on the road. Setting up your tripod in 101 would be a bad move...
(https://cbssanfran.files.wordpress.com/2014/09/goldon_gate_bridge_-_thinkstock.jpg?w=1500)
Just across the river in Windsor, Ontario, you can find some pretty nice views of Detroit:
https://www.google.ca/maps/@42.320032,-83.040885,3a,66.1y,344.31h,89.47t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sl5WYy4FAQirWF9L9umgljg!2e0
The IDL (Inner Dispersal Loop, I-244 and I-444) have some excellent views of downtown Tulsa especially on the east and west legs. The north stretch has some nice views as well, but the southern leg which is also US 64-75-OK 51 is a below-grade freeway and views are hard to come by. There's also a spot on the Tisdale Parkway (I-144 on 4/1) where you go around a curve and there's a beautiful view of the skyline.
I-30 provides some nice views of the Little Rock skyline.
And of course, the grandaddy of them all, I-279 (I think it's I-376 now) through the Fort Pitt tunnel gives a great view of downtown Pittsburgh which is legendary among road enthusiasts.
This is an amazing view of Boston in Walpole right next to the Boston View Motel. :-D
https://www.google.com/maps/@42.142214,-71.217747,3a,15y,28.59h,89.99t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1skxwN6LioVVHfw_kFTdum8w!2e0
Well, I can't believe I forgot this one. I used to live here:
http://goo.gl/maps/Q0ct8
GSV for the area doesn't do justice; but on a clear day, one can get a good distance view of the Boston skyline along Ocean Ave. in Marblehead Neck (just east of the Causeway & Devereux Beach).
Similar can be said for parts of Puritan Road and Humphery St. (MA 129) along Kings Beach in Swampscott as well as Lynn Shore Drive along Lynn Beach (GSV's no help because one needs the right weather & visibility conditions in order to see Boston's skyline).
One with a reasonably decent GSV is along Nahant Rd./Causeway in Nahant, MA. (https://www.google.com/maps?q=Nahant,+MA&hl=en&ll=42.440133,-70.939934&spn=0.000016,0.008401&sll=40.002498,-75.118033&sspn=0.298758,0.537643&oq=nahan&t=h&hnear=Nahant,+Essex+County,+Massachusetts&z=17&layer=c&cbll=42.440133,-70.939934&panoid=uhL9OwViptxc-ffB-Cxsog&cbp=12,220.73,,0,2.39)
For Philadelphia, one a very clear day when there's no leaves on the trees (GSV doesn't do justice here as well); one can get a good distant view of Philly's skyline along MacDade Blvd. near the MacDade Mall just outside of Glenolden, PA.