What Is an MPK File?
A file with the MPK file extension is an ArcGIS map package file that contains map data (layouts, embedded objects, and more) in one file that’s easy to distribute. It also includes a map document (.MXD file). The MPK file extension is also used for Project64 memory pack files used by Nintendo 64 emulators.
How to Open an MPK File
Map packages and documents (MPK and MXD files) can be opened with Esri’s ArcGIS program (v10 and newer). With ArcGIS open, you should be able to drag the MPK file directly into the program. Another way is to right-click the MPK file and select Unpack. The package will unpack to the user’s \Documents\ArcGIS\Packages\ folder. MPK memory packs can be opened with Project64.
How to Convert an MPK File
You should be able to convert an ArcGIS MPK file using that program.
Still Can’t Open the File?
It’s easy to misread another file’s extension as .MPK, even if the two formats are unrelated and can’t be used with the same software. If your file doesn’t open with the programs mentioned above, there’s a good chance it’s not an MPK file. Some file types that look similar to MPK files include MPL, MPLS, MPN, and MAP. Another is KMP, which is a Korg Trinity/Triton keymap that opens with Awave Studio. MPKG is a tricky one that’s identical to MPK, with just one extra letter at the end. These are meta packages used by Mac computers. If you find that your file doesn’t use the .MPK file extension, research the file extension that it is using to learn more about the format and, hopefully, find a valid program that can open, edit, or convert it.
