Url to a Google Maps page to show a pin given a latitude / longitude?

Going beyond the pin: lever the query parameters

Google Maps gives you an array of query parameters to tune your maps. The &ll= can be used to define the center of your map. This can be different from the pin's location, giving you finer control.

Zoom in or out to get the perfect view by using the &spn= parameter. View the map as standard, satellite, or hybrid using the &t= parameter. // Terrain, you're next in our advent-calendar of customization. 😉

Also, you can add a label beside your coordinates in the q parameter for context like so: q=latitude,longitude(Label). Ever feel lost in translation on your map? Fear not, use &hl= to set the language of the interface.

Level-up to advanced pin-pinning

For ultimate control, you can use even more parameters. &z= lets you set the zoom level yourself - 15 clicks and you're street level, adjusting your view just right.

The &iwloc= parameter steals the show when you want to open an info window for your pin - no more "Where is Waldo?" moments for your users! // Who doesn't like a bit of hide and seek? 😁 Integrate Street View via &cbp=, which sets the orientation window, giving your users a 360° tour without leaving their couch.

Making a mobile app? Use &api=1 to ensure the URL works seamlessly.

Visualization 💡

Entering a latitude and longitude is like throwing a dart 🎯 on a digital globe 🌐.

Here, the dart 🎯 is your latitude and longitude,

And the globe is.. you guessed it, the globe 🌐!

🌐  ->  📍
(Globe)     (Pin)

Your URL Template is essentially a dartboard:

https://www.google.com/maps/?q=Latitude,Longitude

Replace Latitude and Longitude with your chosen coordinates, and the pin 📍 fits snugly!

Dodge-falling-faces: common pitfalls and their antidotes

Getting a pin wrong on maps is often down to coordinate formatting. Ensure there are zero spaces and a comma between the latitude and longitude.

Typos in the URL structure are common and can lead to errors or unexpected results. The q= parameter, which accepts the pin's coordinates, is often the most problematic. // Typos, the programmer's natural predator... 😂

Old or unofficial parameters can introduce compatibility issues. Update yourself with Google Maps' official docs for the latest and reliable parameters.

Map your way to future-proof URLs

Google Maps constantly blossoms new features and parameters. Keep up with the latest changes from Google's official Maps documentation.

When using labels or complex queries, remember to encode your URLs for consistent performance and accuracy in interpretation. // This is the "translate to Human" part 🧑👽