What is a good Google My Maps alternative?
DotMap if you need a timeline and event cards. uMap if you want a free OpenStreetMap editor. Felt if a team is doing collaborative GIS.
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A custom map maker for events, not just pins
Google My Maps, uMap, Felt, and ZeeMaps all draw markers. DotMap is for maps that also have a chronology: dated events, photos, a public link, and an iframe.
How the usual tools differ
| DotMap | Google My Maps | uMap | Felt | ZeeMaps | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Place a marker and draw a zone | Yes — pins and polygons | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Dated events & timeline | Yes | Dates as text | No | No | Limited |
| Photos and video on a pin | Yes | Photos | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| CSV import | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| JSON from ChatGPT | Points, zones, lines | No | No | No | No |
| Embed on your site | iframe of the public map | iframe | iframe | Paid plans | iframe |
| Best for | Stories, research, trips | Simple pin lists | OSM power users | Team GIS | Spreadsheet maps |
When to pick DotMap
Stay on Google My Maps for a handful of pins. Stay on uMap for raw OpenStreetMap tools. Felt is better for a GIS team. Pick DotMap when each place is an event. Then embed the map or send one link. The same studio also runs the Ukraine war chronology, Chernobyl, and community maps in the catalog.
FAQ
Is there a free custom map maker?
DotMap Free has a public map, pins, and media. Larger imports need a higher plan. Google My Maps and uMap are also free, with fewer chronology tools.
Can I move a spreadsheet into a custom map?
Yes. Import CSV for points, or JSON when you also have areas and lines.