6 handy tips for using Apple Maps on your Apple Watch

Check out these tips for making the most of the built-in Apple Maps app on your Apple Watch so you can do much more than get just the directions on the wrist.

Apple Maps on Apple Watch US Map

Maps on the Apple Watch is probably one of those apps you only open when you really need it. Maybe you need directions or want to look up a recent spot. But you can explore Maps on Apple Watch just like you would on your iPhone or Mac.

Here are six tips to make the most of the Maps app on your Apple Watch.

1. Quickly find a nearby business

One of the best features of any map app is seeing popular or common businesses near your current location. You don’t have to spend time searching for a coffee shop or gas station. These types of places are only a tap away with Maps on Apple Watch.

  1. Open the Maps app on your Apple Watch and tap the Search icon if the search box is not already showing.
  2. Now, tap the four square icon inside the search box or scroll down to the Find Nearby section.
  3. You’ll see buttons to quickly find things like Gas Stations, Hotels, Train Stations, Restaurants, Parking, ATM, Pizza, Fast Food, Coffee, etc. Tap the type of spot you want, select one from the results, and then get details or directions.
Find Nearby in Maps on Apple Watch

2. See location details

It’s not always about how to get somewhere, but when you can go, how long it will take, and if it’s worth the trip.

Tap a location to get details that include hours, directions, travel times, phone number, address, and of course, its spot on the map. Use the Digital Crown to scroll and see all available information.

Also powered by third-party services like Yelp and TripAdvisor, you may see the star rating for the location and tap to see reviews. Note that you may have to open your iPhone to read the Yelp reviews.

See location details and get directions in Maps on Apple Watch

3. Search your favorite way

If you don’t see the type of nearby location you need or have an exact address, you can perform a search. And you can use the Maps search feature in a few ways, so use the one that’s most convenient for you.

Tap Search > Search, and then pick the Microphone icon to dictate or the Scribble icon to jot it down with your finger.

Search your favorite way in Maps on Apple Watch

But don’t forget about your handy virtual assistant! Yes, you can use Siri on Apple Watch to search for a location. Access Siri on your wrist as you normally would and make your request.

4. View your surroundings

If you’re traveling and want to view your current area, this is also easy in Maps on your Watch. Tap the Location icon. Your current spot will pop up on the map, and from there, you can do the following:

  • Use the Digital Crown to zoom out and back in.
  • Double-tap to zoom in.
  • Drag with your finger to move about the map.
  • Tap and hold to drop a pin, explore, switch to transit options, enable walking radius, etc.
  • Tap a pin to view the location details.
View your surroundings in Apple Maps app on Watch

5. Browse city guides

Apple Maps offers curated city guides. These guides help you find great places to visit in major cities around the world. Any guides that you find and save on your iPhone or iPad are also available on your Apple Watch.

Open Maps on your Apple Watch and tap the Search button. Now, scroll down to see your saved Guides. If you saved other places, those will be on the list with the city guides too.

View saved Guides in Maps on Apple Watch

6. Get in touch with a contact

The Maps app has a connection to your Contacts app. So if you want to see a friend’s address or even give them a call, you can also do this in Maps.

In Maps on your Watch, tap Search. Then tap the Contacts icon and select someone. You can call them, message them, or send an email. And if you scroll below those options, you’ll see their address. Note: You’ll need their address stored in your Contacts app.

Contacts in Maps on Apple Watch

If you want to see a contact’s current location, you’ll use the Find My app. Check out our tutorial for using Find My on Apple Watch for your friends and family.

Take control of Maps on Apple Watch: