[lookingsideways]

If you're on OSX, try it out in Apple Maps, I find their 3D views superior to Google's and it's been available in more locations that I've looked at.

On the iPad you also get more control over viewing angles, I was surprised that you lose that on the desktop.

[lelandbatey]

Hold the 'Ctrl' key and you can use the mouse to rotate to any angle you like.