Twenty years have already passed, since Google Maps set out to help users move from Point A to Point B. Over 2 billion users access Maps every month; and maps are not all that this application is.
Google Maps is basically your steadfast partner, friend, and sometimes even a savior. If it’s not helping you escape that traffic jam, it’s finding you a great restaurant, Just like having a personal assistant in your pocket!
So in honor of 20 years of Google Maps, here are the 20 features that changed the game thoroughly. Some are veteran favorites; some come as a new surprise; but they are all pure magic.
Gemini for Inspiration
Stuck planning? Ask Google Maps. “Things to do in Nairobi with friends” or “Best date spots in Thika” — Gemini will bring up suggestions using real-time data so you can avoid a rut.
Drive in Style (New!)
When you’re cruising, you can swap your navigation icon to match your vibe — choose from pickup trucks, sporty SUVs, racecars, and more.
It’s like giving your drive a personality makeover!
Minimize Airport Stress
Say hello to the end of your airport anxiety, courtesy of Google Maps.
Next time you’re heading to fly, tap on the “Directory” tab and find whatever catches your eye — restaurants, lounges, or even parking.
AR for Instant Clarity
With AR in Maps, just hold your phone, and get instant information about whatever is surrounding you, including whether a place is too crowded or has a good rating.
Find the Cheapest Fuel
With Google Maps, you can seek out all nearby fuel stations and compare prices.
Travel into Yesterday with Street View
Want to see how much your old neighborhood was different? Use Street View to go back in time to your childhood (or to when you last saw that street).
Instant Reservations
Say goodbye to last-minute anxiety. If a restaurant accepts reservations via Maps, you can book a table from the app right away. No more calling in!
Plan Group Hangouts Using Lists
Having a group outing? Create a shared list in Google Maps. Everyone can propose their picks, vote via emojis (love the idea? 
), and decide in record time.
Stress-Free Arrivals
Sick of getting lost searching for the entrance? With the new arrival guidance feature, Maps will show you to the door — even highlighting a couple of parking spots close by.
Immersive View For Route Previews
Planning a road trip or walk in the park? With Immersive View, you can examine your route to see what obstacles may arise (like sharp corners or traffic) before putting on your seatbelt.
Send Trip to Car
In a rush? Plan a trip from your phone and send it straight to your car’s navigation system. No more typing in addresses while rushing!
Air Quality Check
If you are going hiking or just for a run, check the air quality before stepping out. Just tap the layers icon to see air pollution live data.
Find the Hottest Restaurants
Introducing Google Maps, because when you’re either traveling in a new city or rediscovering your hometown, it helps you know which places are hot and getting buzz. Additional brownie points if you snag a seat ahead of everyone else!
Avoid the Crowds
Tired of long queues? Google Maps will let you know just how packed places are usually — even the live status of any given crowd at the moment. So you don’t have to wait around anymore.
Offline Navigation
No signal? No problem! Just download your route and use offline Google Maps. Everything else you need to get there will still be there.
Ease EV Range Anxiety
Are you driving an electric vehicle? Google Maps can tell you where to find charging stations nearby, so you shouldn’t have to run around looking for a charger anymore with their real-time availability updates.
Accessibility Information
Maps has introduced features that provide accessibility information for wheelchair users, including information on entrances, seating, and restrooms. Also included are voice-guided directions for walking to help navigate.
Getting Ready for Every Terrain
Hiking or biking? Get the terrain layer from Maps to see elevation changes and natural features; it will save the lives of outdoor lovers.
Save Fuel and Money
Now, on Google Maps, fuel-efficient routes have started to emerge. If your route contains some eco-friendly option to reach the destination, it will show it to you in order to save gasoline and reduce carbon footprint.
Most Reviewed Restaurants
- The carnivore restaurant
- CJ’s
- Delamere Farm Shop
- Green Spot Gardens
- For You Chinese Restaurant
- Pepino’s Pizza Kimathi
- Kilimanjaro Jamia, Kimathi
Street - The Alchemist
- Java House – Greenspan Mall
- CJ’s Kilimani
Most Reviewed Cafe
1. Bao Box
2. Cafesserie
3. Embu Town
4. The River Café
5. Newscafe – Adlife (Kilimani)
6. Pallet Cafe
7. Cafe Bistro
8. Matbronze Cafe
9. Cafe Mocha
10. Mubins Cafe
Most Reviewed Visitor Attractions
1. NairobiL Animal Orphanage
2. Bomas Of Kenya
3. Pembe Za Ndovu – Mombasa
4. Thompson Falls Nyahururu
5. Uhuru Gardens
6. Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve
7. Malindi marine boat excursions
8. Eldoret Nature & Culture Centre
9. Equator Marker, Nanyuki
10. Vasco da Gama Pillar
Most Reviewed Park
1. Uhuru Park
2. Nairobi National Park
3. Tsavo East National Park
4. Mount Kenya National Park
5. Haller Park
6. Ngong Road Forest Sanctuary
7. Lake Nakuru National Park
8. Aberdare National Park
9. August 7th Memorial Park
10. Amboseli National Park
Most Reviewed Museum
1. National Museum of Kenya
2. Fort Jesus Museum
3. Karen Blixen Museum
4. Museum Hill
5. Kisumu Museum
6. Kenya Railway Museum
7. National Archives Moi Avenue
8. Gede Ruins
9. Hyrax Hill Museum
10. Nairobi Gallery
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