A method and apparatus for rendering geographic areas involves presenting at least part of the geographic area in a distinctive fashion. An area of interest is identified. A location of the area of interest as a geographic sub-area within a geographic area is determined. A representation of the area of interest within an electronic model of the geographic area is located. A view of the electronic model of the geographic area comprising the representation of the area of interest is selected, and the view of the electronic model with the area of interest having a different display characteristic than other geographic sub-areas shown in the view is presented. The different display characteristic distinguishes the area of interest from the other geographic sub-areas.