When investing out-of-state, do you really need to visit area?

[Esteban Cardenas]

I'm a new investor looking to invest out-of-state and have heard its recommended to physically visit the area you are interested in.  What exactly are you looking for or trying to accomplish with this visit?  With today's technology, what can you find in person that couldn't be found online?  Google maps seem much better than driving around neighborhoods.  What am I missing here?  Any advice would be greatly appreciated.