A reader recently asked if it's possible to add links to custom post type archive pages in WordPress navigation menus. Archive pages in WordPress display all posts from a specific post type, category, or tag. In this expert guide, we'll walk you through adding custom post type archives to your navigation menus.
In WordPress, 'archives' refer to pages listing all posts from a post type or taxonomy like categories and tags.
If archives are enabled for your custom post type, you can showcase them on your site. The typical URL format is:
https://example.com/post-type-slug/
Here, the post type slug is the friendly name of your custom post type.
For instance, our 'Deals' custom post type has an archive at:
https://www.wpbeginner.com/deals/
Adding a link to this archive in your navigation menu lets users easily access all posts in that post type from one page.
Let's dive into the steps to add a custom post type archive link to your WordPress navigation menus.
Head to Appearance » Menus. In the left column, you'll see tabs for your custom post types.
Click your post type name to expand it, then select 'View All'.
You'll find an option for your post type archive. Check the box next to it and click Add to Menu.
The archive will appear as a menu item in the right column.
By default, the label uses your post type name plus 'Archives'. To customize, click the item, edit the Navigation Label, and make it user-friendly.
Click Save Menu to apply changes. Visit your site to see the new link in action.
Like regular posts or pages, you can also add individual items from the post type. Select one and click Add to Menu.
Save your menu afterward.
Custom post types must meet certain criteria to show in Appearance » Menus.
First, ensure the archive exists, like https://example.com/movies/ (replace with your domain and post type).
If individual posts appear but not the archive, it supports posts but not full archives.
No problem—add it as a custom link. Go to Appearance » Menus and expand 'Custom Links'.
Enter the archive URL in the URL field and your desired link text in the Link Text field.
Click Add to Menu; it will appear on the right.
Click Save Menu to finish.
We hope this guide helps you seamlessly integrate post type archives into your WordPress navigation menus. Check out our 12 essential WordPress tutorials on custom post types next.
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