MapMuse Announces Release of 2011 Winter Season Maps and Accompanying App

“As far as I know, we’re the only website out there that creates interest-based maps for the different seasons,” says Mike Pilon, owner of MapMuse. “We’re hoping that people come to MapMuse when they’re looking for anything that has to do with winter, be it the location of nearby ice rinks or the store where they’ll buy their next parka.” Although there are countless mapping platforms on the web, searching for the term “Winter” on most of them will only yield results that have “Winter” in their name or keywords. Searching for “Winter” on MapMuse, however, produces entire maps that are dedicated to the season. The locations that populate each map don’t necessarily have “Winter” in their title or keywords, but they do sell winter-related goods or offer winter-related services. “Think of it as searching by theme, rather than by keyword,” says Pilon.

A good amount of research goes into compiling the databases of the maps, which are updated on an annual basis as the winter season rolls around. Although most of the data work takes place in-house, businesses and events featured on the maps also play a large role, as keeping their information current helps attract more customers. Users of the Winter Fun Locator App can also submit new locations, photos, and reviews directly from their iPhone or iPod touch. All newly added data is vetted by MapMuse for accuracy and authenticity before going live.

MapMuse, an internet and app development company based out of Reston, Virginia has lots of experience when it comes to creating seasonal map. The website offers “Fall Season” maps in addition to the winter ones, as well as maps based on every major holiday celebrated in America. Some of the holiday-themed maps that will likely see a good amount of traffic over the next month are New Years Ball Drops (of which there are way more than you'd think), Restaurants Open on Christmas, and Christmas Light Displays. “We aim to be the one-stop locator for everything that has to do with the seasons and the holidays, says Pilon. “This winter will be no different.”

A complete list of current Winter Fun topics includes:
Bobsled Tracks and Luge Tracks
Cross Country Skiing
Dog Sledding Tours and Adventures
Ice Fishing
Ice Hotels
Ice Skating Rinks
Polar Bear Plunges
Ski Clubs
Ski Resorts and Ski Areas
Ski Shops
Sledding Hills
Sleigh Rides
Snow Tubing
Snowmobile Dealers
Snowmobiling Rentals and Snowmobile Tours
Snowshoeing Clubs
Winter Festivals and Carnivals

A complete list of current Winter Services topics includes:
Chimney Sweepers
Christmas Light Installers
Fireplace Retail and Fireplace Installation
Firewood For Sale    
Snow Removal Services
Wood Furnace Installation and Sale

For more information on MapMuse, please visit their homepage at http://www.mapmuse.com.