The visitor center is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Wednesday through Sunday, from May 1 to November 30. From December 1 to March 31, it’s open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Wednesday through Saturday. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. From April 1 to November 30, it operates from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Wednesday through Sunday.
There is no entrance fee to visit New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park. Admission is free for all visitors.
From Boston, take I-93 South to I-195 East, exit at Route 18 Downtown, and turn right onto Elm Street, immersing yourself in the historic charm of New Bedford.
Parking available in nearby Elm Street Garage or metered street parking. No overnight parking. Vehicle height limit in garage: 6’3″. No specific RV or motorcycle restrictions mentioned. Fees apply for garage and metered parking.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Full
In the heart of New Bedford, Massachusetts, lies a historical tapestry that unfolds across 34 acres of urban landscape, the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park. This park is not a serene natural escape but a vibrant gateway to the city’s rich maritime and cultural heritage. Spread over 13 city blocks, it encapsulates the essence of a bygone era, where the sounds of the sea and the whispers of history mingle.
At the park’s core is the New Bedford Whaling Museum, a treasure trove of artifacts and stories that delve into the city’s pivotal role in the whaling industry. The Seamen’s Bethel, with its solemn beauty, stands as a testament to the sailors who once sought solace within its walls. The schooner Ernestina, a historic vessel, adds a touch of nautical authenticity, while the Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum showcases the opulent lifestyle of New Bedford’s elite.
As you wander through the park, you are immersed in a narrative that includes the Underground Railroad and the lives of iconic figures like Frederick Douglass and Paul Cuffe. The visitor center, open Wednesday through Sunday, serves as an essential hub for understanding the complex tapestry of New Bedford’s past.
Seasonal changes bring different hues to the park’s gardens and historic homes, but the constant is the vibrant cultural scene. During summer, the park comes alive with guided tours and educational programs. Local artisans and businesses thrive in the surrounding area, offering unique shopping and dining experiences.
For those seeking a deeper connection, ranger-led tours and special events such as reenactments and historical lectures provide a rich immersive experience. The park’s proximity to the working waterfront and the bustling city ensures that history and modernity coexist in a seamless dance, making New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park an unparalleled destination for those who cherish both the past and the present.
- Area (mi²)
- 0.1
- Established year
- 1996
Top 3 Facts about New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
In the 1850s, more whaling voyages sailed from New Bedford than from all the world’s ports combined, highlighting its dominance as the whaling capital of the world. The city’s waterfront was home to an 89-foot, half-scale replica of a square-rigged whaling bark, the Lagoda.
In the heart of a historic maritime city, a 34-acre oasis harbors a diverse array of wildlife. Here, urban green spaces and historic landscapes serve as a sanctuary for bats, amphibians, and a variety of bird species. The park’s waters are home to ray-finned fishes, while its grounds support milkweeds and other unique flora. This blend of natural and cultural heritage offers a unique escape, where pollinators thrive and animal life flourishes amidst the remnants of a bygone whaling era.
Along the historic waterfront, the waters of the Atlantic Ocean glisten with a deep blue hue, a testament to the maritime legacy that once thrived here. The coastal landscape, devoid of towering mountains, is instead defined by the sturdy wharves and cobblestone streets that echo the bustling activity of a bygone era. The temperatures vary seasonally, from the crisp chill of winter to the warm summers, each bringing its own charm to this maritime setting. Here, the rich history and natural beauty blend seamlessly, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a world where the sea and land converge. The waters are home to occasional whale sightings, a reminder of the area’s whaling heritage.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Arts & Crafts
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days in the fall to explore the historic district, visiting key sites like the Whaling Museum and Seamen’s Bethel. Check the visitor center for seasonal hours and event schedules, such as the Whale Festival. Wander cobblestone streets, rest at local cafes, and enjoy the scenic beauty.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable New England weather; bring waterproof gear, comfortable shoes, and sun protection for summer visits. For longer stays, include camping gear and warm clothing for cooler evenings. Check seasonal forecasts to adjust your packing list accordingly.
Respect Wildlife
Respect urban wildlife by staying on designated paths, avoiding invasive plant species, and not disturbing local bats and pollinators, especially during seasonal migrations. Leave the area as you found it, taking all trash with you. Be mindful of weather conditions to protect sensitive ecosystems.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water edges, and check weather conditions. Follow park signs and rules. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 508-996-4095. Stay informed to ensure a safe adventure.
Seasons
In spring, as temperatures rise to the 50s and 60s, experience the vibrant maritime heritage. Enjoy the Maritime Makers & Marine Marvels event during April vacation week, featuring hands-on activities and dynamic maker spaces. Mild weather makes it an ideal time to explore historic sites and immersive exhibits.
Summer in New Bedford offers warm weather (70s-80s°F) and vibrant events. Enjoy guided walking tours, the Summer Sound Series, and AHA Nights (second Thursday of each month from May to October) with performances, art exhibits, and family activities. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
Experience autumn’s mild temperatures (50s-60s°F) and scenic harbor tours. Enjoy Oktoberfest’s craft beers and live music, or savor local chowder at Chowderfest. Rich Azorean culture comes alive during AHA events in October. A perfect time to immerse in history and culture.
Experience the icy charm of winter from December to March, with temperatures ranging from 38°F to 44°F. Crisp air, occasional snow, and fewer crowds make for a serene and historic exploration. Bundle up and immerse yourself in the city’s maritime heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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You should stay in New Bedford, Massachusetts, to visit the park, as it is located at 33 William Street in the heart of the city. New Bedford was a significant whaling port and is where the park’s historical sites are situated.
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There is a child-friendly hiking trail nearby, the Daniel Ricketson Nature Trail, which is 0.7 miles long and takes about 14 minutes to complete. However, this trail is not located within the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park. The park itself offers guided walking tours rather than hiking trails.
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Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. They cannot be left unattended and owners must clean up after them. Service animals are an exception and can enter buildings, but they must also be controlled unless it interferes with their work.
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There are parking fees in the area, but not for entering the park itself. You may need to pay for parking in the Elm Street Garage or other parking spots, with rates such as $2.00 per hour or $12.00 per day. Free three-hour parking is available along Johnny Cake Hill.
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You can explore the historic home and gardens of the Rotch-Jones-Duff House, a 19th-century whaling family’s estate. The park also includes the New Bedford Whaling Museum, which displays whaling artifacts, whale skeletons, and a half-scale ship model, along with interactive exhibits and a 3D movie. Additionally, you can visit the Seamen’s Bethel and see the schooner Ernestina.