Interactive maps turn static datasets into navigable images that instantly reveal patterns and relationships. A farmer might use them to study crop yields across seasons, while an urban planner could analyze new housing projects in relation to transit networks. Mapping software makes complex data intuitive, giving decision-makers a clearer view of what’s happening on the ground. 

Discover how to make interactive maps, why they're beneficial, and the tools available. We’ll also highlight how Felt leads with AI-native, browser-based tools that empower teams to transform raw data to clear, actionable maps. 

What’s an interactive map?

An interactive map is a map you can explore, customize, and edit in real time. Unlike static images, interactive maps respond to user input, letting you filter and click through to reveal new layers of information. Here are some key features of interactive maps:

• Clickable layers: Switch datasets on or off to compare details or isolate a single view.
• Zoom: Move seamlessly between a global overview to street-level detail. 
• Filters: Narrow search results based on specific criteria, such as date or region, to tailor data display. 
• Tooltips: Access contextual details by hovering or clicking on elements, keeping maps uncluttered. 
• Overlays: Add visual layers, like weather patterns or demographics, for richer analysis.

Custom mapping tools can be used across a variety of industries, including:

• Logistics: Companies can visualize supply chains, warehouse locations, and fleet routes in a single image to spot bottlenecks and improve delivery times. 
• Education: Students can zoom, filter, and explore, turning geography and history lessons into engaging, hands-on learning experiences. 
• Environmental monitoring: Organizations can track wildlife populations, air quality, and deforestation over time, guiding research and policy decisions. 

How to create an interactive map

With the right interactive map maker, any team can turn raw data into a clear, navigable display. Here’s how to make a map using a tool like Felt. 

1. Gather and clean your data

An interactive map is only as good as the information behind it. Collect the dataset you want to visualize — like population density over a fixed time period — and refine it. That means filling gaps, standardizing formats, and removing duplicates. 

2. Choose the right tool for your needs

The map creator you choose shapes the entire process. Open-source frameworks offer more control but often require coding knowledge. Legacy platforms handle large datasets but can be expensive and restrictive. Felt takes a different approach: Its AI-native, browser-based design lets you style data and create interactive maps quickly, without technical hurdles. 

3. Upload and organize your dataset

Once your data is ready, upload it to your mapping tool. Felt’s “upload anything” feature supports more than 30 geospatial formats, from basic spreadsheets and vector files to Snowflake databases. Drag and drop your files, and Felt’s AI technology will automatically organize the layers so you can start exploring immediately. 

4. Add styles, layers, and interactive elements

Design determines how people use your map. With Felt’s style editor, you can customize backgrounds, adjust vector styles, and enhance raster imagery with hillshading and color ramps. Connect your map to dashboards with charts and drawing tools, all without writing a single line of code.

5. Share, embed, and collaborate in real time

The final step is distribution. Felt lets users share maps via a link or by embedding it directly into a website or report. Teammates can jump in on their browser and leave notes, tag colleagues, or make edits live — no extra software required. 

What tools can you use to make interactive maps?

Choosing the right mapping tool depends on your team’s skills, budget, and project goals. Some platforms prioritize ease-of-use, while others offer deep customization through code. A few platforms even combine both. Here’s a breakdown of four widely used options.

Felt

Felt is a collaborative, AI-native GIS platform that makes it simple to build and share spatial tools. It’s easy to adopt without a coding background yet powerful enough for experts to create advanced, dynamic analytics. AI features shape every step, from uploading datasets to styling and layering. It all takes place in a browser-based, real-time workspace that strengthens teamwork and decision-making.

Google Maps

Google Maps provides APIs that let developers embed routes, locations, and geocoding into web and mobile apps. Its familiar interface improves usability, but scaling can become expensive and pricing models change frequently. For teams that need straightforward location data and wide accessibility, it’s a reliable option.

Mapbox 

Mapbox is a flexible location platform for building custom maps, navigation systems, and search features. Developers can integrate highly tailored designs across web and mobile applications, making it popular for brands that want consistent visuals. The tradeoff is complexity — coding skills are required to unlock its full potential. 

Leaflet

Leaflet is a lightweight, open-source JavaScript library for simple interactive maps. Its modular structure and wide variety of plugins allow skilled users to extend functionality and design to suit project needs. Free and customizable, it’s a good choice for those comfortable with coding. 

Benefits of interactive maps 

Static maps only provide a fixed snapshot — once created, they rarely tell the whole story. Interactive maps offer something different: a dynamic, user-driven view that adapts as data evolves, making it easier to uncover insights and share information effectively. Their value spans the following key benefits:

• Better storytelling and clarity: Instead of overwhelming viewers with dense spreadsheets or static visuals, interactive maps turn data into a narrative. Features like filters, layers, and tooltips highlight relationships and patterns, helping users grasp complex information at a glance. 
• Real-time collaboration: With static maps, every update requires redistributing a new version. Interactive maps change that by allowing live edits, comments, and styling updates in the same shared space. Teams can work together seamlessly without juggling outdated files. 
• More informed decision-making: By letting users zoom, filter, and combine datasets, interactive maps surface connections that might otherwise stay hidden. This flexibility supports better analysis, whether someone needs to spot high-level trends or drill into granular details.
• Scalability: Large datasets can make static maps cluttered and unusable. Interactive maps scale gracefully, letting creators adjust visual styles and introduce new categories as information grows. The result is a tool that remains clear no matter how much data it contains. 

Experience the future of interactive mapping with Felt

Interactive maps turn static data into tools for planning and problem-solving, and the right mapping platform makes all the difference. Felt is a collaborative, AI-native GIS solution built for modern teams, making spatial data simple to explore, share, and integrate. 

From startups to global enterprises, Felt empowers users to build maps that are intuitive and actionable. Trusted across 15 industries, Felt is transforming how businesses make decisions. 

Try Felt today and experience the future of interactive mapping.

FAQ

How can I add an interactive map to a website?

Most mapping platforms let you embed a map by copying a code snippet or sharing a link. With Felt, you can also customize details like size, default zoom level, and search functionality, giving visitors a tailored experience on your website.

Can I make an interactive map for free? 

Many mapping tools offer free tiers, though these often limit storage and feature options. Felt’s free plan lets you create and share custom maps and collaborate in real time.