No one wants their visitors wondering, “Are we still on the byway?” A successful byway experience starts with clear, easy-to-use maps that help travelers confidently find their way.
Maps Matter—Before & During the Trip
Before a trip, travelers want more than just start and end points. They’re looking for context:
- Where is the byway within the state or region?
- How close is it to fuel, food, lodging, restrooms, and attractions?
- How do I connect it to the rest of my itinerary?
Once on the road, reliable navigation keeps travelers focused on the byway’s beauty, stories, and unique stops—not worrying about whether they’ve missed a turn or lost the route, especially in areas with limited cell service.
Visitors also need reassurance after detours—whether they’re grabbing lunch or taking a scenic side trip. The less time they spend figuring out where they are, the more time they can spend enjoying what makes your byway special.
And despite what social media might suggest, getting lost isn’t usually part of the fun. In fact, poor navigation is often the most frustrating—and potentially most talked-about—part of the trip. Since word-of-mouth is one of the most trusted sources for trip planning, a smooth and seamless experience helps your current visitors and your future ones.
Best Practices for Byway Maps
Want to make navigation effortless? Start here:
Make the Map Easy to Find
Include a map prominently on your byway homepage. Ideally, it should be visible on the home page without scrolling.
Show Where the Byway Fits
Include a regional or statewide map so travelers can see how the route connects with other destinations.
Offer Printable & Downloadable Options
Travelers still love printed maps, especially when cell service is unreliable. Provide both printable PDFs and mobile-friendly versions.
Use Feedback to Improve
Ask visitors what worked and what didn’t. Regular feedback can help identify missing labels or unclear sections.
Label Clearly
If your map is divided into regions or segments, use intuitive labels and avoid unfamiliar jurisdictional names. Use place names and route numbers to avoid confusion between road signs and GPS directions.
Field Test Your Map
Have someone unfamiliar with the route navigate using only your map. Their experience will reveal where tweaks are needed.
The Payoff: Confidence, Engagement, & Return Visits
By prioritizing user-friendly mapping and signage, you create a more confident and enjoyable experience for your visitors. When navigation is smooth, travelers can fully immerse themselves in the journey, and that’s the kind of trip they’ll recommend, post about, and come back for.
Need Help Evaluating or Improving Your Byway’s Maps or Wayfinding Strategy?
Corridor Solutions works with byway communities to create traveler-friendly tools that support confidence, clarity, and connection. Contact us to learn how we can help strengthen your byway’s navigation and visitor experience.
