Google Maps' newest version continues to deliver impressive upgrades, and now has the ability to display multiple routes on one page when plotting a trip.
When users search for directions by entering a starting point and destination, they can continue to add destinations to the maps without losing sight of their original route, Google announced in a blog post published Wednesday. During a test run of the feature, the number of destinations we were able to display on a single page topped out at nine.
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As each destination is added, the map view automatically shifts to accommodate viewing all destinations on a single page. What's more, the order of the destinations can be shuffled to offer different options in regards to time and mileage via foot, bike, car or public transit.
Once a user enters their destinations, they'll notice a string of snapshots along the bottom of the map, which offer a look at some of the locations they've selected. But the photos aren’t just for show: If you roll your cursor over one of them, a grey line shoots out to indicate where on the map the photo was taken, delivering a bit more context, as you plot your journey into unfamiliar terrain.
Yet another practical addition to the new version of Google Maps is “upcoming events.” Users simply type in the name of a venue and, along with its location, they'll find a drop-down list of upcoming events scheduled for that particular location.
Currently, these features are only available in English to users across the U.S. But as they roll out globally over time, touring unfamiliar locales around the world — as well as in your own country — will only get easier, and probably a lot more fun.
BONUS: 10 Places You're Not Allowed to See on Google Maps
The Royal Palace of Amsterdam in the Netherlands -- called Koninklijk Paleis Amsterdam -- joins a long list of places blurred on Google Maps related to the Dutch royal family, including the Royal Stables and another residence called Huis ten Bosch.
The Buffalo Niagara International Airport is largely whited out on Google Maps and details can't be seen when the area is zoomed in.
The Tantauco National Park in Chile can only be seen from a marker via Google Maps. The private natural reserve is home to many endangered animals.
Man-made reservoir Keowee Dam on Lake Keowee in South Carolina is also blurred on Google Maps. Shaped like a Christmas tree, the dam helps run a power utility called the Duke Energy company.
We're not entirely sure why this location in Russia has been blurred out, especially since it's in the Siberian tundra. The closest city is Egvekinot, Russia, which is a neighbor to Alaska across the Bering Strait.
The Minami Torishima Airport -- a one-runway airport serving the island of Minami Torishima, located off the east coast of Japan -- is oversaturated with white. It is currently used by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.
The Dugway Proving Ground in Dugway, Utah is a region occupied by the U.S. Army where the military can test biological and chemical weapon systems. The Michael Aaf building on the proving ground is whited out, most likely for security reasons.
The Cornell University Combined Heat and Power Plant in Ithaca, NY -- which opened in 2010 -- is blurred on Google Maps. The high-tech, eco-friendly facility generates electricity from natural gas as a part of the university's effort to lower its carbon dioxide emissions.
The city of Babylon, Iraq looks more like endless farmland than a bustling city.
Properties owned by the Dutch royal family aren't the only places blurred in the Netherlands. Joining the list are the oil tanks in Vlissingen (pictured), as well as several army bases and air force bases. The land area to the left also appears to be pixelated and adjusted.
Image: Google Maps