Planning a conference or workshop series? One of the best ways to improve attendee experience is by providing an interactive map with clearly labeled locations. Using Google Maps and its companion tool Google My Maps, you can easily create a custom map with markers for sessions, workshops, and key event areas.
This step-by-step guide will show you how to create a Google Maps event map, add workshop markers, and share it with attendees.
Why Use Google Maps for Event Planning?
Creating a custom event map helps attendees:
- Quickly find workshop rooms and session locations
- Navigate large venues or multi-location conferences
- Access details like schedules, speakers, and descriptions
- View nearby hotels, parking, and dining options
For organizers, it’s a simple, free solution that integrates seamlessly into websites and mobile devices.
Step-by-Step: Create a Google Maps Map with Markers
1. Open Google My Maps
Start by visiting Google My Maps and selecting “Create a new map.” This tool allows you to build fully customized maps separate from standard Google Maps navigation.
2. Name Your Event Map
Click on “Untitled map” and give your map a clear, SEO-friendly name such as:
“2026 Tech Conference Workshop Map – Locations & Schedule”
You can also add a description to provide context for attendees.
3. Add Markers for Workshop Locations
Use the search bar to find a venue, hotel, or specific room, then click “Add to map.”
Alternatively:
- Use the marker tool to drop a pin manually
- Add multiple workshop locations across different venues
Each marker represents a session, workshop, or key location.
4. Customize Your Markers
Click on any marker to:
- Rename it (e.g., AI Workshop – Room 204)
- Add descriptions (time, speaker, session details)
- Change colors or icons to differentiate event types
This makes your map more user-friendly and visually organized.
5. Organize Workshops with Layers
Layers allow you to group locations efficiently. For example:
- Day 1 Workshops
- Day 2 Workshops
- Keynote Sessions
- Networking Events
Attendees can toggle layers on/off for a cleaner viewing experience.
6. Share Your Event Map
Click the “Share” button to control access:
- Private (invite-only attendees)
- Public (anyone with the link)
You can send the map via email or include it in event confirmations.
7. Embed the Map on Your Website
To display your map on a website:
- Click the three-dot menu
- Select “Embed on my site”
- Copy and paste the iframe code into your CMS (WordPress, Webflow, etc.)
Embedding your map improves SEO and enhances on-site engagement.
Best Practices for Conference Maps
To make your Google Maps event map more effective:
- Use different colors for workshops, keynotes, and amenities
- Include important locations like registration desks and restrooms
- Add nearby hotels, parking garages, and restaurants
- Keep marker titles short but descriptive
- Include session times for quick reference
Advanced Option: Use Google Maps Platform API
For larger or dynamic events, developers can use the Google Maps Platform to:
- Automatically generate maps from event databases
- Update workshop locations in real-time
- Customize map styling and interactivity
This is ideal for large conferences or recurring events.
Final Thoughts
Creating a Google Maps map with markers for your conference or workshops is a simple yet powerful way to improve navigation and attendee satisfaction. With tools like Google My Maps, you can build, customize, and share an interactive experience in minutes—no coding required.
Whether you’re hosting a small workshop or a large multi-day conference, a well-organized event map ensures your attendees never miss a session.