Google Maps uses an intuitive interface to let you find a location, get directions, and compare routes. This popular mapping tool is used on many websites and is embedded in various applications.
Google Maps make it easy to map an address and get directions to or from that address, but learning a few tips and tricks will help you get the most out of this popular tool.
1. Multiple Destinations
When getting directions, Google Maps does not limit you to one destination. Click on the "Add Destination" link below the addresses already mapped to get directions to another destination. Once you have multiple locations listed, you can drag and drop the order of each address to customize your route.
2. Changing Your Route
Google Maps calculates the fastest route available. Clicking on the "Show Options" link below the mapped addresses will give you options for avoiding highways and toll roads. You can also grab any section of your route by clicking on the line and dragging it to a different road. Google Maps will recalculate the rest of the route to use the road you specified. You can drag multiple sections of the route until the map shows the route you want.
3. Planning for Traffic
Clicking on the "Traffic" button at the top right of your map will add traffic conditions to the map where available. The route will change colors depending on the traffic conditions. A legend appears which explains the colors. The default is to show live traffic. If you click the "change" link in the legend, you can switch from live traffic reports to estimated traffic for a specific day and time. This lets you factor in busy traffic times when you get directions in advance.
4. Walking Routes
Google Maps offers more than driving directions. By changing the drop down menu below the mapped addresses from "by car" to "walking", Google Maps will plan a walking route for you to follow. This is especially helpful when planning walking routes for exercise as it shows you the distance in miles as well.
5. Public Transit
When available, Google Maps will offer directions by public transit instead of by driving. Simply change the drop down menu below the mapped addresses from "by car" to "by public transit". Google Maps will plan a route using a mix of walking, buses, and rails as needed to get you to your destination.
6. Emailing Maps
The easiest way to email a map made on Google Maps is by clicking on the "Send" link found at the upper right of the map. You will be asked for your email address and the destination email address. You have the option of having a copy of the map sent to your email address as well.
7. Linking to Maps
If you want to post a link to the map you made on Google Maps on a website or just add the link through your own email program, click on the "Link" option at the upper right of the map. This will give you the link you will need to copy to send others to your map.
8. Satellite, Map, and Terrain View
Google Maps lets you easily switch between a satellite or standard map view. When in the satellite view, check or uncheck the "show labels" box to view the satellite image with a standard map overlay. You also have the option of viewing a terrain map. Each of these buttons are in the upper right corner of the map.
9. Setting a Default Location
In Google Maps, you have the option to set a default location. This will be the location that appears whenever you access Google Maps. Setting the default location to your home address or from the place you most often depart will make it a bit easier to get directions. Simply click the "Get Directions" link on the left hand side of the screen and your default location will already be set as your starting point.
10. Additional Map Options
To see additional information on your map, click the "More..." button found in the right hand corner of the map. This will give you the option of seeing available photos, video, Wikipedia entries, and webcams for locations on your map. Clicking the "More..." button again will toggle your selected content on and off.
Google Maps is a popular and powerful mapping tool that lets you do more than find simple single-destination locations. By learning about these additional features, you can get more out of your experiences at Google Maps.