Default center on United States?

Question

By default, google offers this example of how to center a map on Chicago, IL:

var chicago = new google.maps.LatLng(41.850033, -87.6500523);

Is it possible to have the default center focus on the entire United States? I can't find this anywhere.

Answer 1

Use Chicago as the center, and then change the zoom.

There's an example here. A slightly reworked version (untested!):

gMap = new google.maps.Map(document.getElementById('map')); 
gMap.setCenter(new google.maps.LatLng(41.850033, -87.6500523));
gMap.setZoom(ANewZoomLevel);

You'll need to experiment to find the right zoom level for your needs.

Answer 2

Use the Geographic Center of the Contiguous United States:
Lebanon, Kansas. Probably the most boring place on earth.

http://www.kansastravel.org/geographicalcenter.htm

I find that a zoom of 3, 4, or 5 is perfect.

gMap = new google.maps.Map(document.getElementById('map')); 
gMap.setCenter(new google.maps.LatLng(39.8097343, -98.5556199));
gMap.setZoom(3);