20 Advanced and Lesser-Known Features of Google Maps

Google Maps is a powerful tool for navigation and exploration. While many users are familiar with its basic features, there are several Google Maps hidden features that are often overlooked. This article explores 20 enhanced functions that can transform your experience with Google Maps. From collaboration to augmented reality, these tools offer a smarter way to navigate and discover new places.

1. Discover Google Maps Hidden Features

You can easily create and share itineraries with friends. This feature simplifies planning for group trips or outings. Sharing your plans makes it easier to coordinate activities and ensures everyone is on the same page.

2. Use Augmented Reality (AR) for Navigation

The Live View and Lens features utilize augmented reality in Google Maps. They provide navigation arrows and contextual information about your surroundings, including details about nearby restaurants, public transport stops, and local landmarks. More insights about these features can be found on AFAR Magazine.

3. View Photos and Immersive Views

Almost every listing in Google Maps includes photos. Furthermore, the Immersive View combines multiple images, providing a comprehensive view of a location. It also reflects dynamic changes based on the time of day and weather conditions.

4. Overlay Additional Information

Google Maps allows you to overlay various layers on the map, including public transit routes, traffic statuses, bike paths, wildfires, and air quality. This feature provides a detailed perspective of your surroundings. Discover more at Tom’s Guide.

5. Dress Up the Pegman

On desktop, the Pegman icon in Google Street View can be customized. You can dress Pegman in various costumes depending on the location, adding a fun and interactive element to your exploring experience.

6. Travel Back in Time with Street View

View historical Street View images to see how places have changed. This feature is accessible on both desktop and mobile. It’s fascinating to observe the evolution of neighborhoods, landmarks, and cities.

7. Remember Where You Parked

Google Maps enables you to save your parking location. You can add notes or set reminders for when your parking meter expires, making finding your car simpler and stress-free.

8. Create Your Own Maps

Custom maps let you mark locations, draw routes, and add directions. These personalized maps can be layered into the standard Google Maps interface and accessed across all your devices, making navigation easier.

9. Check the Last Train Home

Google Maps can help you find the last public transportation option to return home. Just select the «Last» option when planning your route. This feature is especially useful for late-night outings.

10. Customize Your Navigation Icon

Personalizing your navigation icon is possible with various car types and colors. This customization adds a personal touch to your navigation experience, making it enjoyable.

11. Ask Maps for Inspiration

The Gemini feature allows you to ask Google Maps for activity suggestions. Whether it’s a group hangout or a date night, Maps provides curated results based on trusted data, ensuring quality recommendations.

12. Get Menu Highlights

Google Maps provides menu highlights for numerous restaurants. You can see photos and reviews of popular dishes, assisting you in making informed dining choices. This feature enhances your overall dining experience.

13. Understand an Area at a Glance with AR

The Lens feature in Google Maps uses augmented reality to provide instant information. You can learn about the name of a place, its busyness, and its ratings. This functionality simplifies decision-making when exploring new areas.

14. See HOV Lanes Along Your Route

Google Maps can inform you about HOV (High-Occupancy Vehicle) lanes along your route. This helps you save time by using designated lanes for eligible vehicles, reducing travel time.

15. Make Reservations Right from Maps

Booking restaurant reservations is convenient through Google Maps. If the restaurant partners with a booking service, you can reserve a table directly from the app, streamlining your dining plans.

16. Plan Group Hangouts with Lists

Creating and sharing lists of places to visit is a helpful feature. Google Maps allows groups to collaborate on their plans, making outings easier and ensuring everyone has a say in the choices.

17. Find the Hottest Restaurants in Town

Google Maps helps you discover trending and top-rated restaurants. You’ll have access to lists of popular dining spots and hidden gems. This aspect enhances your culinary adventures and helps you try new cuisines.

18. Avoid the Crowds

Checking the «Popular times» graph is essential for crowd avoidance. You can see how busy a place is likely to be at different times, helping you plan your visits and minimize wait times. More about this can be found on Google Blog.

19. Use Google Maps Offline

Downloading maps for offline use is a crucial feature. It ensures you have access to navigation information even without internet connectivity, particularly useful when traveling in remote areas.

20. Keep Your Activity Private with Incognito Mode

Google Maps offers an Incognito Mode for enhanced privacy. Your search history won’t be saved, and your activity stays private. This feature gives you control over your navigation experience.

These features demonstrate the versatility of Google Maps, transforming it from a basic navigation tool into a comprehensive exploration companion. Leverage these advanced functionalities to elevate your travel and exploration experience. For more tips, visit Gizchina.