Cool ArcGIS Online basemaps to use in your next web map

Basemaps provide context to your web maps. No matter what you are trying to present on a map, you will want to explore the basemaps that are available  in ArcGIS Online. We have put together a group of cool ArcGIS Online basemaps that you can use in creating your next web map.

Maps allow us to present various types of information in a creative and aesthetically unique way. Basemaps are canvasses, that allow you to overlay data layers and provide context for your work.

Even though there are 10 basemaps included in the ArcGIS Online map viewer, you can access many more basemaps created by authors across the globe that might be more appropriate for your mapping needs.

We have put together a group called “Cool Basemaps” that allow you to explore some of these interesting and unique basemaps that you can use in your next mapping activity.

They include:

• Historical basemaps
• Basemaps in other languages
• Basemaps in different projections
• Creative basemaps

This basemap is the Modern Antique in English, Updating the look of 18th and 19th century antique maps.

The OpenStreetMap (Blueprint - WGS84) is styled like a blueprint technical drawing.

Modern Antique (Chinese - Modern) basemap.

The Mid-Century French basemap is inspired by the art and advertising of the 1950's.

Access these basemaps in the Map Viewer by following the steps in the video below:

Find more basemaps and content via the Living Atlas.

New to ArcGIS Online?

Educators can request an account for themselves and their students at k12.esri.ca/#access. Parents can request accounts for their children using the same link. 

• At-home learning during COVID-19 crisis and beyond
  Find out how to access ArcGIS Online so that K-12 learners can continue to ask, analyse and act on their learning from home.
• Discover ArcGIS Online tutorial
  Learn the basics of ArcGIS Online with this quick tutorial.
• Getting Started Path for Teachers
  Follow this beginner path to build your confidence with online mapping tools.
• Six by Six Activity (choose your region)
  Six activities you can do in six minutes each - for ArcGIS Online beginners.
• Getting to Know the ArcGIS StoryMaps
  Try the new ArcGIS StoryMaps builder experience.

Happy Mapping!