Aerial America

Aerial America is a visually stunning documentary series produced and aired by the Smithsonian Channel since 2010. The series takes viewers on an unprecedented exploration of America, providing unique perspectives from an eagle's eye view. Each episode of Aerial America gives viewers a chance to tour one particular U.S. state from high above, offering an aerial view that magnifies and showcases the diverse beauty, history, culture, and personality of each featured locale.

The concept behind Aerial America is simple but extremely effective. The series employs high-definition cinematography from helicopters, drones, and other aircraft to capture the diverse landscapes of the United States. From the towering skyscrapers of New York City to the vast, arid deserts of Arizona, from the rugged mountain terrain of Colorado to the lush green forests of the Pacific Northwest, the show reveals an America that is vibrant, diverse, and breathtakingly beautiful.

But Aerial America is not merely a visual feast. It weaves authentic storytelling into its stunning imagery. As the camera soars over the country’s landmarks, natural wonders, towns, and cities, a narrator provides enlightening commentary on history, geology, culture, and interesting trivia about each spot.

By giving audiences an aerial perspective, the show presents a unique opportunity to see familiar places and landmarks in a completely new light. Popular man-made structures, such as the Golden Gate Bridge and the Statue of Liberty, are captured from angles that viewers would be hard pressed to experience in person. Similarly, natural marvels including the Grand Canyon, the Everglades, and the Rocky Mountains take on new dimensions when viewed from above.

Aerial America doesn’t shy away from the lesser-known and often overlooked parts of the country either. In each episode, the show takes off the beaten path, uncovering hidden gems that may be unfamiliar to many viewers. It features slightly less known locations and shares their rich history and unique culture, engaging viewers and inspiring them to travel and explore the unusual locations and hidden treasures of their own country.

Along with the sweeping vistas and narration, each episode of Aerial America also provides a soundscape that enhances the viewing experience. The soundtrack is thoughtfully selected to match the mood of each location, skillfully paired with the visuals to provide an immersive experience for the viewers.

The episodes are slightly less than an hour long, but in that time viewers are transported to a genuinely spectacular world unseen from the ground. From the comfort of their homes, they can enjoy a captivating and comprehensive view of the United States, punctuated by insightful commentary that enriches the understanding and appreciation of what makes each part of this country unique.

By showcasing various regions in all their splendor and diversity, Aerial America also aims to inspire a sense of pride and unity amongst Americans. Despite their cultural, geographical, and historical differences, the series showcases how each state contributes to the fabric of this unique and dynamic nation, offering both subtle and explicit lessons in geography, history, and culture.

Over the years, Aerial America has also released special episodes that delve even more in-depth into particular American themes, such as "Amazing Destinations" and "Beyond Hollywood," expanding the scope of the series beyond states and offering viewers comprehensive tours of some of the nation's most beloved landmarks and revered institutions.

Aerial America provides the possibility of experiencing the grandeur and diversity of the United States in a way that few other television series can. Each episode offers a compelling journey through time and space, revealing the landscapes, architecture, and regional identity that make each corner of America unique.

With its stunning visual imagery, compelling narration, and thoughtful productions, Aerial America is more than a simple documentary series. It is a tribute to the United States, a love letter to its landscapes, history, and culture, and a testament to the spirit of exploration and discovery that is inherent to the nation. Whether viewers are lifelong residents or first-time tourists, this series offers an unforgettable journey through America's past, present, and potential future, all from a perspective they may have never considered before.