10 Google Maps Features, Part 1

The last couple of weeks I showed you 10 Tech Tips and mentioned maps in that bit of information. I received several questions from readers asking about learning more about Google Maps. So, here are 10 Google Maps features you may have not heard of before. You can see Google Maps at maps.google.com.

These are some of my favorite Google Maps “tricks,” maybe “features” would sound better.

#1 how about one-handed zooming. This feature is incredibly handy when you are juggling multiple tasks. To use it, double-tap on the screen, but keep your finger pressed down on the second tap. Then, slide your finger up to zoom out or down to zoom in. This gesture works smoothly and allows for precise control over the zoom level. It is especially useful when you are walking or holding something in your other hand. Just make sure that thing in your other hand is not your steering wheel!

#2 can you say, “Offline maps?” These can be a lifesaver when you are traveling to areas with poor internet connectivity. To use this feature, search for an area you want to download for use when you have no network. Tap the bottom bar with the place name, and select “Download“. You can choose the size of the total area you want to save, and Google Maps will show you how much storage space it will take. These maps update automatically every two weeks when you are online, ensuring you have the latest information.

#3 is one of my favorites. This feature is perfect for, if like me, you occasionally, or often, forget where you have parked your car. When you arrive at your destination, tap the blue dot (your current location) and select “Save your parking“. Google Maps will drop a pin at your parking spot. You can add notes, like “Level 5, Spot 132,” set a parking meter timer, save a photo of your parking spot, or even share the location with friends. On iOS, if your phone is connected to your car via USB or Bluetooth, it will automatically mark your parking spot when you disconnect.

#4 is for outdoor enthusiasts. Google Maps has a hidden biking layer that reveals trails and bike paths. To access this, tap on “Layers” and select “Biking“. This layer shows dedicated bike lanes, bike-friendly roads, and even mountain biking trails. It is an excellent tool for planning cycling routes or finding new hiking spots in your area. You can even get phone holders that fit on your bike for convenience. Check some out at Amazon.com, just search for “bicycle phone mounts.”

#5 is available on the desktop version of Google Maps, not yet on the mobile app. To use it, right-click on your starting point, select “Measure distance,” and then click on your endpoint. You can add multiple points to measure complex routes or areas. It is particularly useful for planning hikes, estimating running distances, or even checking property sizes. It is basically the old adage of how far…as the crow flies.

#6…say you are going on a trip and need to add some other stops along the way. Google Maps allows you to add up to nine destinations to your route. To accomplish this, enter your first destination, then tap the three dots and select “Edit stops.” You can continue adding stops and even reorder them by dragging and dropping. This feature is perfect for planning complex trips or running multiple errands efficiently. Say first you want to go to the big box store to get a large screen TV, then on to the barber/stylist to get your hair cut, then to the grocery store. You can lay it all out ahead of time and maybe make better time.

While navigating, you can easily find points of interest along your route, with feature #7. Tap the search icon at the top of the screen and select a category (like gas stations or restaurants) or type what you are looking for. Google Maps will show you options along your route, including how much time they will add to your trip. This feature is incredibly useful for road trips or when you need to make an unplanned stop. Or in my case, searching for a specific place to eat on the way home from a long trip.

The last ones will be here next week, come back then!