Google Arts & Culture and the National Park Service have launched United Parks of America, a digital hub featuring more than 60 US national parks and historic sites. The project was announced Aug. 20 as the National Park Service approaches its 110th birthday on Aug. 25.

The platform offers more than 150 curated exhibitions, 30 virtual tours and more than 500 miles of Street View imagery. Visitors can digitally explore landmarks including the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Yellowstone, Glacier, Acadia and Great Smoky Mountains.

AI Brings American History Into Focus

The project also features Path to Independence, an experimental AI storytelling experience based at Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia.

The experience uses Gemini to provide audio narration and answer questions about the Declaration of Independence, historic figures and artifacts. Users can explore Independence Hall and examine digitized historical materials.

Google said the project includes 19 copies of the Declaration of Independence, 149 18th-century portraits and more than 2,000 pages of historical documents. Selected objects are also available as interactive 3D models.

Digital Access Expands National Park Exploration

The launch coincides with National Park Week and the National Park Service's 110th anniversary. The National Park Service manages more than 400 sites across the US, covering natural, cultural and historical resources.

Aug. 25 is also an entrance-fee-free day at participating national park sites that normally charge an entrance fee. Other costs, including reservations and camping fees, may still apply.

The digital initiative offers remote access to landscapes and historical collections while maintaining the distinction between virtual exploration and physical visits. It gives international audiences and people unable to travel another way to explore US national parks and historic places.