How To See 3D Buildings in Google Earth

A new innovation from Google Earth application allows you to explore big cities in a more realistic setting. This is a very useful application that is free for anyone who can download it. The 3D experience will definitely change the way you see your favorite cities. It shows more accuracy that will make reference on areas easier and more convenient.

Follow these steps to experience the full use of this application and see buildings in 3D.

* Secure your Internet connection and download this application. Google search engine will direct you to it. However, this is the link where it can directly be downloaded: earth.google.com. After you have downloaded it, prepare for its installation. Launch the application afterwards.
* Take note that only big cities are under this advantage. This is because only the big cities around the world are the only ones who have more buildings.
* Locate the layers menu in Google Earth. Find it in the lower left side portion of the screen. There shouldn’t be any trouble for you locating it. Click on that menu. There is an entry that says “3D buildings” select it along with options like 'Photorealistic' and 'Gray'. If your screen has a lot of clutter and appears to be confusing, uncheck other layers. As a shortcut, press 'Ctrl + Alt + B' (or + Option + B' on the Mac) for the sidebar to automatically appears.
* Depending on your Internet speed, the buildings may appear one by one in matter of time. They have to be downloaded. This may take a minute or two especially when there is a lot of structures and buildings in that particular area. One by one the buildings are being downloaded.
* Change your camera angle. Do this to have a clearer view of the city that you would like to see. To do this, press the shift key while dragging the mouse down or pushing the ‘down’ button. Explore other angle and direction by rotating the mouse and directing it to that angle. Press the appropriate buttons while the shift key is being pressed.
* Try visiting the Google 3D warehouse. Thousands of 3D models have been uploaded by people for viewing purposes to be used in Google Earth. To view these numerous 3D images, click on the 3D Warehouse network link. The 3D Warehouse is a feature of the Google Earth. It has to be downloaded for the program. Before using the 3D Warehouse, check first if it is checked in the places panel. However, be warned that not all models that you can find on 3D Warehouse are accurate and appropriate. Some did not even pass the criteria of Google Earth and some are just plain duplicates of previously made 3D structures. There are even fantasy models that are made to entertain people.


Thanks to the technological advancement of the Google graphics, we are provided by a clearer and more realistic view of the biggest cities in the world. From Tokyo to Chicago, ordinary Internet users can be introduced and can experience a visual traveling treat better than before.