Traveling for the holidays? Google Maps uncovers 'hidden gems' to add to your route now

The hustle and bustle of the holiday season is here, and with it comes...errands! From traveling to loved ones' homes to running to stores for last-minute gifts, ingredients, or decor, much of the season is spent on the road. To help make the experience as easy as possible, Google unveiled some features for Google Maps. 

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On Thursday, Google launched several updates to Google Maps, including a new feature in the mobile app that lets users discover "hidden gems" or interesting stops they would have otherwise missed while road-tripping. These stops include local favorites, coffee shops, rest stops, restaurants, and more. 

To surface these hidden gems, enter your location as usual and tap the new "Add stops" button. You can select from one of the prepopulated options or type into the search bar anything you want to see or are looking for; Google will find you spots that are conveniently along your route. 

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If you don't know exactly what you are looking for, scroll to the bottom of the screen. There, you will see local selections organized by topic, including restaurants, points of interest, and fast food. 

Another handy addition is a new search feature that allows you to search Google Maps for a specific product. Maps will then tell you what nearby stores have in stock so you can pick it up. This is particularly handy for last-minute specific ingredients or gifts for people you still need to shop for. 

Google Maps has other features that will help you stay ahead of your journeys, such as weather notifications, Immersive View for routes so you can plan, EV charging stop notifications, and trailer-friendly route options.