Why Convert OSM to GeoJSON When You Can Download it Directly? A Better Approach

If you’re looking to convert OpenStreetMap (OSM) data to GeoJSON format, there’s a simpler solution that could save you significant time and effort. Instead of downloading OSM data and converting it to GeoJSON, why not download it in GeoJSON format directly? Let me introduce you to a powerful alternative: the OpenStreetMap Category Viewer.

The Traditional Challenge

Traditionally, working with OpenStreetMap data involves several steps:

1. Learning Overpass query language
2. Writing complex queries to extract specific features
3. Downloading OSM format data
4. Converting the data to GeoJSON
5. Verifying the conversion worked correctly

This process is time-consuming and prone to errors, especially if you’re not familiar with Overpass QL or data conversion tools.

A Better Solution: Direct GeoJSON Downloads

The OpenStreetMap Category Viewer (available at https://mapscaping.com/openstreetmap-category-viewer/) eliminates these complicated steps. Here’s why it’s superior to the traditional convert-OSM-to-GeoJSON workflow:

1. Always Up-to-Date Data

Unlike downloading and converting static OSM files, this tool fetches data directly from OpenStreetMap’s current database. This means you’re always working with the most recent information available.

2. No Query Language Required

Instead of learning Overpass QL, you can simply:

• Select from pre-defined categories like Amenities, Transportation, or Healthcare
• Browse through specific feature types within each category
• Click “Fetch Data in View” to load exactly what you need

3. Visual Data Selection

The tool provides an interactive map interface where you can:

• Zoom to your area of interest
• Preview the data before downloading
• See exactly what features are available in your area
• Click on features to inspect their attributes

4. Direct GeoJSON Downloads

Each feature type comes with a GeoJSON download button, providing:

• Instantly usable GeoJSON files
• No conversion steps needed
• Data ready for immediate use in your GIS software

5. Smart Data Organization

The tool organizes data by:

• Points (🔵): Single locations like shops or landmarks
• Lines (➖): Features like roads or paths
• Polygons (⬢): Areas such as buildings or parks

How to Get Started

1. Visit the OpenStreetMap Category Viewer
2. Zoom to your area of interest (zoom level 11 or closer)
3. Choose a category from the dropdown menu
4. Click “Fetch Data in View”
5. Select the specific features you want
6. Download directly as GeoJSON

Beyond Basic Conversion

This approach offers several advantages over traditional OSM-to-GeoJSON conversion:

• Data Discovery: Browse through categorized features to find exactly what you need
• Quality Control: Preview data before downloading to ensure it meets your needs
• Time Efficiency: Skip multiple conversion steps and potential errors
• Feature Filtering: Select specific feature types instead of downloading everything
• Immediate Visualization: See the data on the map before downloading

Conclusion

While converting OSM to GeoJSON has been a common workflow, tools like the OpenStreetMap Category Viewer represent a more efficient approach. By downloading GeoJSON directly and leveraging an intuitive category-based interface, you can focus on what matters: working with the data rather than preparing it.

Next time you need OpenStreetMap data in GeoJSON format, skip the conversion process entirely. Try the OpenStreetMap Category Viewer for a more streamlined, user-friendly experience that gets you the data you need, faster and easier than ever before.