Over the past few years, local search—driven by “near me” and intent-based queries—has become crucial for small businesses. While Foursquare City Guide was once a go-to app for local discovery, the platform and the broader landscape have evolved significantly. Here’s what local business owners need to know about using Foursquare today, and how it fits into a modern digital strategy.
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
What is Foursquare today?
Foursquare began as a popular consumer app for discovering places and sharing check-ins. In recent years, it has shifted focus primarily to B2B services, offering location data and intelligence solutions for enterprises and app developers. The Foursquare City Guide app still exists, allowing users to search for venues and read tips, but its consumer user base has declined compared to the early 2010s.
Current users can search for businesses, read tips, check reviews, and see key information, but most discovery now happens on platforms like Google Maps, Instagram, TikTok, and Yelp.
Who uses Foursquare in 2026?
Foursquare’s consumer app is now a niche tool, with a smaller—though dedicated—audience. Rather than relying on outdated stats, it’s important to note that if your audience includes tech-savvy explorers or travelers, maintaining a presence on Foursquare can still add value. However, younger and mainstream audiences are more active on Google, Instagram, and TikTok for local discovery.
Key features for businesses
- Business Listings: You can claim or update your business listing to ensure accuracy of your name, address, hours, and contact info.
- Tips & Ratings: Users can leave tips and ratings, which still influence how your business appears in Foursquare results.
- Specials: Some promotional features, like offering specials for check-ins, may still be available but are less prominent than in the past.
- Location Data: Foursquare’s location data powers many third-party apps, so correct information on Foursquare can have a wider impact beyond the City Guide app.
How to use Foursquare in your local marketing strategy
1. Claim and optimize your listing
Make sure your business information is accurate and up-to-date. Include your business name, address, phone number, website, hours, and social profiles. This helps Foursquare users and also improves your visibility in other apps that leverage Foursquare’s data.
2. Use relevant keywords
Describe your business with keywords your customers use, such as “sandwich shop” or “pastry bar.” This helps your business appear in relevant searches in Foursquare and other apps.
3. Monitor tips and reviews
Read and respond to user tips and reviews. Address feedback and highlight positive experiences. Even if the volume is lower than on Google or Yelp, every customer interaction matters.
Keep Reading: Where And How To Get Reviews For Your Business »
4. Diversify your local SEO
While Foursquare can still offer value, prioritize Google Business Profile, Yelp, and Facebook for a broader reach. Short-form video platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels are now key drivers of local business discovery—consider incorporating them into your strategy.
5. Consider promotions
Check if Foursquare’s check-in specials are supported in your area and business category. If so, they can help encourage visits and engagement.
Conclusion
Foursquare is no longer the leading app for local discovery, but maintaining your listing can still benefit your business—especially as its location data powers other platforms. For maximum impact, focus on Google, Yelp, Facebook, and newer social media channels. Think of Foursquare as one piece of a larger, diversified local marketing strategy in 2026.