Each listing has a neighborhood map. If you are within 300 miles of the apartment, you can even get driving instructions for getting there. Some sites also include floor plans and photos. As you check various places, you can add them to a list of prospects to compare later. The listings aren't limited to big cities either.
Any apartment complex can submit information.
You may experience some traffic problems on this site. AllApartments is upgrading its servers, and downloads are a little slow. If you have problems, try reaching the site outside of peak traffic hours. The site's services are free. Rent.net Rent Net has U.S., Canadian and overseas apartment listings.