While everyone is familiar with Google Maps, a lesser known, but infinitely awesome offshoot is Google My Maps, which lets you create completely customized maps in a matter of minutes.
To get started, just search for places by name or address and then save each relevant pin to your map. If you have a bunch of locations, you can even import pins directly from a spreadsheet.
Once your locations are added, you can customize to your heart’s content, including adding custom map pin icons and colors, as well as adding customized photos and descriptions to each location.
After you’ve designed your personalized map, you can share and collaborate too, including embedding your map on your website or inviting friends to edit; just like you would with any other document on Google Drive.
For an example, check out this custom map I created for The Happy Beast, my wife Natalie’s natural pet food store in Lafayette, CO. To help promote our favorite pet places, we used customized map pins for different types of places, including dog parks, hiking trails, vet offices, doggie daycares, rescues and shelters, etc.
With Google My Maps, the possibilities are endless and you’re sure to find some fun along the way.