If you’re like us, the “somewhere on Google Maps” trend has taken over your social media feeds.
Here’s how it works: folks search their home address to find special memories captured by Google over time, like their grandfather mowing the lawn, childhood pets in the driveway, or even themselves playing outside.
It got us thinking — what moments in Austin have been memorialized by Google Maps? Here’s what we found.
Jo’s Coffee sans “I love you so much” mural
Somewhere on Google Maps... it’s 2009 and local musician Amy Cook hadn’t yet written the iconic declaration of love on the wall to her then-girlfriend and the building owner, Liz Lambert.
El Arroyo, circa Robin Thicke craze
Somewhere on Google Maps... it’s 2013 and “Blurred Lines” by Pharrell Williams and Robin Thicke is the song of the summer. Naturally, El Arroyo chimed in.
Shady Grove is busy on a spring day
Somewhere on Google Maps... it’s 2009 and the patio of now-closed restaurant Shady Grove on Barton Springs Road is filled with diners enjoying the food + weather.
6th Street is in its SXSW 2011 era
Somewhere on Google Maps... it’s 2011 and the city is bustling with SXSW festivalgoers. Pedestrians walk in front of the now-closed bar Logan’s on 6th.
Zilker Park is prepping for ACL 2014
Somewhere on Google Maps... it’s 2014 and crews are setting up for ACL Festival at Zilker Park. Eminem, Pearl Jam, OutKast, and Skrillex are the headliners, while artists like Sam Smith and Hozier are in smaller print on the lineup poster.
Rainey Street is almost unrecognizable
Somewhere on Google Maps... it’s 2011 and Rainey Street is a residential area. Locals live within walking distance of a few watering holes while still enjoying a cozy neighborhood feel in proximity to Downtown.