1) MapQuest Directions
On the Web since 1996, MapQuest is still the standard-bearer in online driving directions and the first site I usually turn to when I need to find my way. Getting driving directions is as simple as entering starting and ending addresses. The directions generated are easy to follow, and I’ve found them to be mostly accurate. MapQuest’s driving time estimates, however, can be a bit generous–you’re likely to arrive faster than indicated. Print your directions, email them or transfer them to a PDA.
2) Google Maps
Google is a relatively new player in the world of online mapping, but wow. The detail and accuracy of Google’s road maps is unparalleled, which is particularly helpful if you’d like to plot a scenic route rather than driving Interstates. The driving directions component still produces some rather convoluted routes at times. But this is Google, so expect improvements. For now, use the maps to help you navigate New England’s twists and turns.
3) Yahoo! Driving Directions
The free driving directions that you can get from Yahoo! are good and, in fact, I often compare the directions I get from both MapQuest and Yahoo! before setting out on a trip. I’m not crazy about the printing layout for Yahoo!’s directions. And, on the whole, I think that MapQuest tends to find the more direct route. It’s not a bad idea, though, to compare options, particularly if your destination is unfamiliar or the route prone to traffic congestion.
4) Rand McNally Online Driving Directions
Rand McNally has a map-making history that dates back to 1856, but the company was a bit slow to the dance and didn’t offer free driving directions online until 1999. If you haven’t tried Rand McNally for directions, you should, particularly if you are planning a long trip with multiple segments. I like the customization possibilities, particularly the ability to track total accumulated distance for each step of a trip. An advanced road trip planning tool allows you to add stops along a route.
5) Windows Live Local Driving Directions
As of August 2006, Windows Live Local is still in Beta, but this driving directions tool has to be better than its precursor, MSN’s Map Blast, which looked like something that was created by a high school kid, not the techie folks in Redmond. It’s nice to have the option to choose the shortest instead of the quickest route in these days of high gas prices. If you do opt for speed, keep in mind that the driving time estimates are awfully ambitious unless you plan to really step on it.
6) AAA Driving Directions
My dad sometimes uses AAA for driving directions, but since I’m not a member, I often forget that AAA offers this service free online for anyone. That’s probably for the best, as AAA is slower than other driving directions sites, and it even hiccups when trying to find my home address as a starting point. The directions generated can be rather convoluted, so while they might get you there, it certainly won’t be via the easiest route. The dense type in the printing layout is almost unreadable.
by Kim Knox Beckius
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