You can find Google Maps on your phone and use it to find your way around. But many people only use it for the basics. Besides basic turn-by-turn directions, the app has a number of smart, less well-known tools that can make planning, traveling, and finding your way around much easier. Here are seven cool things about Google Maps that most people don’t know about but should start using right away.
1. Write down where you parked
You can remember exactly where you parked your car with one of the best secret tools. You can save where you parked by tapping on it after you’ve done so. You’ll be able to quickly find your way back to your car the next time you open Google Maps. This feature comes in handy in big parking lots or busy streets where it’s hard to remember where you parked.
You can also add notes about the spot or set a timer if parking is limited to a certain amount of time.
2. Find out how far apart places are
With Google Maps, you can find out how far away any two points on the map really are. The distance you see here is the straight-line distance, not the drive or walking distance. Put a pin in one place and then add another one to see how far apart they are. This can help you plan walks, see how far apart places are, or guess how far something is when you’re moving and don’t have internet.
3. Accessible Routes for Wheelchair Users
Google Maps can show you wheelchair-friendly directions if you or someone you’re going with needs more easy ways to get around. When you type in your destination and choose transit directions, you can choose mobility choices that sort routes by how accessible they are for wheelchairs. This makes it easier to pick the best route without having to guess.
4. Check to See How Hard It Is to Park Before You Go
Google Maps can tell you how easy or hard it might be to park where you’re going before you even leave. It decides whether parking is easy, moderate, or limited based on information from past visits. You can choose a time or a drop-off place ahead of time, which will save you time and trouble.
5. Street View Go Back in Time
One of the most interesting secret benefits is that Street View lets you go back in time. This lets you see pictures of a place from many years ago. It works on computers and is slowly making its way to phones. You can look at what a place looked like many years ago, which can help you see how things have changed, or just be fun to do.
6. Look at the last few options for transit
Google Maps can help you find the last bus or train that will take you home if you’re taking public transportation. When you’re done choosing your routes, click on “last” to see the bus and train plans for the end of the day. This will help you avoid being stuck without a ride.
7. Choose routes that use less fuel
Based on the type of car you have, Google Maps can now suggest routes that use less gas. By choosing your engine type and turning this on in the app’s settings, you can make it prioritize routes that save fuel, which cuts down on both costs and pollution.
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Extra: More helpful hints
Google Maps has a lot more useful tools besides these seven. For example, you can download maps to use offline, share your location with family and friends, and get specific information on how to reach different areas. These are often not used, but they can make finding your way around new places or making trips a lot easier.
Google Maps is more than just a way to find your way. These secret features make travel easier, smarter, and more personalized. Take them with you on your next trip!
