Maps Widget for Google Maps PRO places customizable maps in WordPress widgets, pages, posts, and custom post types. Visitors see a map thumbnail loaded through the Google Maps Static Maps API in one request, then can open an interactive map in a lightbox or display it in place of the thumbnail. A Google Maps API key is required for maps to work.

The PRO edition adds more than 50 capabilities and options, including multiple pins, clustering, custom styles, and shortcode support. It also includes import and export, widget cloning, Google Analytics integration, and premium USA-based support.

Set up the map thumbnail

Choose the thumbnail's width, height, and zoom level, then select a road, satellite, terrain, or hybrid map. PRO also lets you use a custom map picture. Pick a color scheme or create a custom Google map style, then set the pin type, color, size, and label. The pin library includes more than 1,500 designs, and you can use an image as a custom pin icon.

Choose how users open the map

An interactive map can open in a lightbox or replace the thumbnail on the page. Set the thumbnail link to open the lightbox, go to a custom URL, show the interactive map in place, display it immediately, or disable the image link. Interactive maps support fullscreen display and map modes for directions, search, view, and Google Street View.

Set the lightbox width and height; it adjusts on smaller screens. PRO adds extra lightbox skins and controls for closing the map when visitors click the overlay, press Escape, or use the close button. You can also choose whether to show a map title.

Manage locations with pins

Add unlimited pins with custom markers and descriptions to thumbnail maps, interactive maps, or both. When a visitor selects a pin, it can open a description bubble, go to a URL in the same or a new tab, or do nothing. Clustering and filtering help organize maps with multiple pins.

Place and configure the map in WordPress

In WordPress, open Appearance > Widgets and add Maps Widget for Google Maps to a sidebar. Follow the setup instructions to generate a Google Maps API key and save it in the add-on settings. To place a map in a page, post, or custom post type, copy its shortcode, such as [gmw id="#"], into the content area.

Other options include the map language, a hidden widget title, text above or below the map, and interactive-map header or footer text.