Getting Started

Mapsmith is a WordPress plugin that lets you create interactive Google Maps with multiple business locations, custom pins, sidebars, and popovers.

Requirements

  • WordPress 5.8 or later
  • PHP 7.4 or later
  • A Google Maps API key with the Maps JavaScript API, Places API, and Geocoding API enabled

Installation

From the WordPress Dashboard

  1. Go to Plugins → Add New in your WordPress admin
  2. Click Upload Plugin at the top of the page
  3. Choose the mapsmith.zip file you downloaded
  4. Click Install Now, then Activate

Via FTP / File Manager

  1. Unzip mapsmith.zip on your computer
  2. Upload the mapsmith folder to /wp-content/plugins/
  3. Go to Plugins in your WordPress admin and activate Mapsmith

First-Time Setup

After activation, you'll see Mapsmith in your WordPress admin sidebar. Click it to open the plugin dashboard. On your first visit, a setup wizard will guide you through:

  1. Google Maps API Key — Paste your API key (see the Google Maps API Setup guide for details)
  2. Google Map ID — Required for Advanced Markers styling (optional but recommended)
  3. Create your first business — Enter your business name and add a location
  4. Create your first map — Name your map and choose a layout
  5. Usage data opt-in — Optionally share anonymous usage data to help us improve the plugin

Quick Start Workflow

Once setup is complete, the typical workflow is:

  1. Create a Business — Each business has its own pin style and can have multiple locations
  2. Add Locations — Enter addresses, phone numbers, hours, and custom fields for each location
  3. Create a Map — Select which businesses/locations to include, configure the sidebar layout, theme, and controls
  4. Embed with a Shortcode — Copy the shortcode (e.g. [mapsmith id="1"]) and paste it into any page or post

Plugin Menu Structure

Menu ItemDescription
BusinessesManage your businesses and their pin styling
LocationsView and manage all locations across all businesses
MapsCreate and edit maps, configure layout and styling
SettingsGoogle Maps API key, Map ID, license activation, and usage data