Reach independent local
businesses across your
neighborhoods
It Started with
a Parking Ticket
Chicago - Berwyn
In the busy city of Chicago, far from home in Berwyn, Manuel Pacheco found himself with an unexpected detour. He’d accidentally parked his red Celica on the wrong side of the street—street cleaning day.
Instead of getting frustrated, he saw it as an opportunity to explore.
The Story Continues
While searching for the place to pay his ticket, he discovered a whole new part of the neighborhood: businesses, parks, a gym, a hospital, and even an interstate train station—all closer than he’d realized.
That moment sparked a question: “How many other neighbors are missing out on what’s right around the corner?”
That’s how Detour Maps was born.
Our 18-Year Journey
2007
First Community Map
We released our first community map featuring seasonal events for Berwyn and Cicero. With 30 participating businesses sharing promotional costs, we proved that collaboration makes everyone stronger.
The Challenges
Over the years, we faced higher standards than other providers. We were asked for lower prices, faster results, higher expectations. But we always responded with commitment, innovation, and consistency—because we believed in our communities.
2019
Ahead of Our Time
When the pandemic hit, people suddenly realized our QR codes and digital coupons were ahead of their time. The way we connected communities and promoted local shopping proved to be visionary and adaptable.
2025
The Next Chapter
Today, we’re closer than ever to our goals. And we want our neighbors to know: you’re in good hands. Our story of perseverance, innovation, and commitment to small businesses proves we’re on the right path.
The Neighbors Who Inspired Us
Over the years, we’ve met incredible people who shaped our vision. Here are some of their stories:
Mariana The Cafe Owner
Started with distrust of digital tools, now uses Detour Maps to grow her business and connect with customers.
"Finally found the perfect way to promote my café without losing the personal touch."
Aaron The Tech Optimizer
Lives with Mariana, loves efficiency and his dog Max. Uses Detour Maps to find pet-friendly spots and optimize his busy schedule.
"Technology that actually brings you closer to your community."
Lisa y Tommy The Organized Family
Mother and son who discovered that local life can be simple and rewarding.
 "Tommy wears his neighborhood shirt every week—it's his favorite way to show where he's from."
Michael The Storyteller
Creates content that showcases the soul of neighborhoods.
"These aren't just businesses—they're the heartbeat of our community."
SofÃa The Bridge Builder
elps friends and grandparents embrace digital tools to stay connected.
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"If I can learn it, anyone can. And now my abuela orders her groceries online!"
More Than Maps - We Are Community
We realized people weren’t just looking for directions—they wanted connection, pride, and a way to support what makes their community special.
That’s why DM Shop was born.
That's why DM Shop was born
The Missing Piece
After 19 years of connecting communities, we kept hearing one question:
”Where can I find something authentically local to take home or gift?”
Visitors wanted real souvenirs. New neighbors wanted to show their pride. Long-time residents wanted to celebrate their block’s personality.
What We Believe
Buying locally means reinvesting in the community: every purchase, recommendation, and shared story strengthens our neighborhoods. We know that great things take time, effort, and commitment; value is measured in passion and perseverance. That’s why partners like American Express share our vision: supporting local businesses isn’t a trend, it’s our conviction.
Why We Do
What We Do
We're Not Big Tech We're Big Neighborhood
Built from the ground up by people who live here, shop here, and want their community to thrive.
Every Story Matters
From the café owner perfecting her morning blend to the family finding their new favorite park—we celebrate the everyday moments that make neighborhoods special.
Authenticity Over Algorithm
Real people sharing real experiences about real places. No fake reviews, no corporate chains—just neighbors helping neighbors.
Where We're Going
DM Shop
America’s only custom neighborhood souvenir store, celebrating what makes YOUR block special.
Detour Maps
Your daily companion for discovering deals, events, and experiences in your neighborhood.
Our Community
500+ neighbors, 25+ Chicago communities, 50+ local entrepreneurs—and growing every day.
Your Chapter Starts Here
Every neighborhood has stories waiting to be told. Every resident has experiences worth sharing. Every local business has something special to offer.
The Detour Continues
Every time you choose local over corporate, community over convenience, neighborhood pride over generic products, you’re taking a detour that leads somewhere meaningful.
The Detour Continues
Your story is part of our story. Your neighborhood is part of our map.
Your pride is part of our purpose.
Take a detour, discover simplicity – and help us write the next chapter.
