About Us

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Hey Neighbors! Let’s Build Something Great—Together

At Detour Maps, we’re not just a marketing platform—we’re your neighborhood connector. Our name says it all: M.A.P.S. = Marketing and Advertising Platform of Services. We’re here to help local businesses navigate marketing and thrive, while creating meaningful connections with both neighbors and visitors.

Explore how we support local businessesThe Magic Behind “Shop Local”

Before the internet, we were already helping small businesses shine—with printed maps, event calendars, and community guides that neighbors loved. That spirit lives on today in our DM Shop—your one-stop online marketplace to support neighborhood businesses and buy local souvenirs like shirts, mugs, and more.

Check out our latest neighborhood collections

Our Vission

We’re on a mission to make every community feel like home.

Exclusive discounts & local deals
Fun events & festivals
A growing, united network of neighbors and entrepreneurs

But it’s not just about business—it’s about connection. At Detour Maps, we believe in kindness, collaboration, and celebrating what makes each neighborhood unique.

Meet the communities we support

Our Mission

We think big—and local.

Short-Term Goal: Partner with local leaders, businesses, and organizations to spark growth and visibility.

Big-Picture Goal: Build a neighborhood marketplace that gives small businesses the spotlight they deserve.

Future Vision: Become Chicago’s #1 local discovery hub—where neighbors shop, connect, and experience the best of their community.

Learn about joining the marketplace

Our
MissionWe think big—and local.Short-Term Goal: Partner with local leaders, businesses, and organizations to spark growth and visibility.Big-Picture Goal: Build a neighborhood marketplace that gives small businesses the spotlight they deserve.Future Vision: Become Chicago’s #1 local discovery hub—where neighbors shop, connect, and experience the best of their community.

Our Journey

Where It All Began

We launched with printed neighborhood maps and guides—offering shared ad space to reduce marketing costs and boost visibility for small businesses.

Jan2007

Nov2009

Custom Tools for Local Groups

We designed campaigns for local development groups, Main Streets, chambers, and more—customized maps, door hangers, and flyers.

Leading the Digital Wave

We pioneered QR Code Marketing before it was cool! By 2008, our system helped hundreds of businesses run trackable, interactive campaigns.

Apr2013

Jul2023

Innovation & Community Engagement

This year was all about staying competitive and evolving.

We launched a Voting System for community events, allowing neighbors to vote and engage in a fun, interactive way.
We introduced DM Shop—a platform where you can proudly represent your neighborhood with custom souvenirs like t-shirts, mugs, hats, and sweatshirts.
We kicked off the Neighbor Ambassador program—giving you a way to showcase your support and love for your community.