From historic battlefields to a national seashore, there are a variety of Maryland locations to visit in honor of National Park Week.

Held April 21 – 29, the National Park Service is celebrating the more than 400 sites protected under the National Park System. Here in Maryland, our 18 NPS sites generate an economic impact of more than $234 million in park tourism. And with more than 6.5 million visitors every year, our small state packs quite the punch in culture, recreation, and conservation.

If you're looking to visit one of Maryland's sites this week, our top choice is one of the state's newer NPS members – the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad. Take time to explore Tubman's home and landscape while learning about her journey to freedom. While visiting this national historical park, enjoy the Eastern Shore's spring weather and stop by the adjacent visitor center and the surrounding Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge. The visitor center – which opened last spring – surpassed 100,000 visitors during its first year in business.

The National Park Service was created in 1916 to conserve the scenery, historic objects, and wildlife across the country. President Woodrow Wilson signed the act in order to protect the nation's natural landmarks and provide enjoyment for future generations. Today, the sites cover more than 84 million acres in the U.S.

See the full list of National Parks in Maryland on the NPS website. Commemorate the occasion by joining NPS on social media with the hashtag #FindYourPark.