How To Change Date On Google Maps

Ever found yourself wishing you could time-travel on Google Maps? Like, maybe you want to see what your neighborhood looked like when your grandma was a kid, or check out the ancient ruins that used to be where your local mall is now? Well, guess what? You can!

Meet the Time Travel Button

Okay, okay, it's not actually called that. But that's what we're gonna call it. This little-known feature lets you see what the world looked like at different points in time. Isn't that just the coolest thing since sliced bread?

So, how do you find this magical button? It's hiding in plain sight, my friend. Here's how to summon it:

1. Open Google Maps on your computer. No, it won't work on your phone. Sorry, time travel isn't that advanced yet.
2. Search for a place. Any place. The world's your oyster.
3. Once you've found your location, look for the little clock icon at the bottom left of the screen. See it? That's your time machine.

Now, Let's Set the Dial

Click on that clock icon, and boom! You're suddenly in the way-back machine. You'll see a slider appear, with dates ranging from 1999 to the present day. Now, here's where it gets interesting:

Fun Fact Alert! The further back you go, the more pixelated the images get. It's like Google Maps is showing its age, just like us. Isn't that adorable?

How To Change Dates on Google Earth | Change Year on Google Earth

Now, slide that slider to your heart's content. Watch as buildings pop up, then disappear. See how streets change, how parks get created or demolished. It's like watching a movie of your city's history. Isn't that just the coolest thing?

But Why, Though?

You might be wondering, why would Google do this? Well, my curious friend, it's all about the data. Google Maps uses satellite imagery to create its maps, and they've been collecting this data for years. So, they've got a treasure trove of historical images just waiting to be explored.

Date On A Map

Plus, think about it. If you're trying to decide between two restaurants, wouldn't it be helpful to see which one has been around the longest? Or if you're planning a historical reenactment, you can scope out the perfect location. The possibilities are endless!

So, Go On, Time Traveler

Now that you know how to change the date on Google Maps, the world (or at least, the digital version of it) is your oyster. So, go on, explore. See what your city looked like before you were born. Check out the ancient ruins that used to be your local coffee shop. Just remember, no matter where (or when) you go, Google Maps is always there to guide you home.

Happy time traveling, my friend!