Here is a site that allows visualization of how cities actually developed.
Classroom ideas - I can see using this in history and literature classes. How developed was Long Island in Jay Gatsby’s day? What was pre-war Los Angeles like?
Gapminder http://www.gapminder.org/ From their website “unveil the beauty of statistical time series by converting boring numbers into enjoyable, animated and interactive graphics.” Visualize statistics and data.
Classroom idea: Great for comparative studies. This site has a learning curve, but the presentations you can make really bring data to life.
Lesson idea: I like the idea of exploring why a city is where it is. This tool can give a visual to rivers, mountains, etc.that contributed to a city's founding or growth.