Discover the Rich Maritime Heritage at New Bedford Whaling Museum
Explore the New Bedford Whaling Museum, a captivating journey into maritime history, art, and the legacy of the whaling industry.
The New Bedford Whaling Museum is a must-visit for tourists interested in maritime history, art, and culture. Located in New Bedford, Massachusetts, this museum showcases the city’s significant role in the whaling industry, offering an immersive experience through its extensive exhibits and artifacts.
A brief summary to New Bedford Whaling Museum
- 18 Johnny Cake Hill, New Bedford, Massachusetts, 02740, US
- +1508-997-0046
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan your visit on a weekday to avoid larger crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Check the museum's website for special events or temporary exhibitions that may enhance your experience.
- Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the exhibits and historical context.
- Don’t forget to visit the museum shop for unique maritime-themed souvenirs.
- Allocate at least two to three hours to fully appreciate the extensive exhibits and collections.
Getting There
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Bus
From Pawtucket, walk to the nearest bus stop on Main Street. Take the RIPTA bus #1 towards Newport. Remain on the bus for about 30 minutes until you reach the stop at 'Union & Purchase' in New Bedford. Once you get off, walk north on Purchase Street for about 0.5 miles until you reach Johnny Cake Hill. The New Bedford Whaling Museum will be on your left at 18 Johnny Cake Hill.
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Bike
If you have access to a bike, start from downtown Pawtucket and head south towards the East Bay Bike Path. Follow the path for approximately 5 miles until you reach the town of Bristol. From Bristol, continue on the bike path along the waterfront, which will lead you to New Bedford. Once you arrive in New Bedford, make your way to Johnny Cake Hill, which is about 1 mile from the bike path exit. The museum will be located at 18 Johnny Cake Hill.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk, start from the center of Pawtucket and head south on Main Street towards the city of Central Falls. Cross the bridge into Central Falls and continue walking along the riverfront. After about 2 miles, you will reach New Bedford. Once in New Bedford, navigate towards Johnny Cake Hill located in the downtown area. The New Bedford Whaling Museum at 18 Johnny Cake Hill will be on your right side.
Discover more about New Bedford Whaling Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Waterfront Historic Area LeaguE
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Custom House Square
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Merrill's Wharf Historic District
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New Bedford Tourism Office
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Abolition Row Park
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New Bedford Historical Society
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New Bedford Preservation Society
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Prince Henry the Navigator Monument
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North Bedford Historic District
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Acushnet Cedar Swamp State Reservation
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First Indian Reservation in the United States
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Elizabeth Islands
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Unmissable attractions to see
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park Visitor Center
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New Bedford Port Society: Seamen’s Bethel and Mariner’s Home
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Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey
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New Bedford Waterfront
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New Bedford Museum of Glass
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Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum
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New Bedford Armory
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New Bedford Fire Museum
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Clasky Common Park
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Buttonwood Park
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Harbor Walk
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Buttonwood Park Zoo
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Essential places to dine
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Quahog Republic Whaler's Tavern
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Cork Wine and Tapas
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Freestone's City Grill
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The Whale's Tail
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The Black Whale
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Destination Soups Inc
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Brick Pizzeria Napoletana
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dNB Craft Kitchen
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No Problemo
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222 Union Restaurant and Bar
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Back Door Burgers & More
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Merrill's on the Waterfront
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Izzy's
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Conversational Arts
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Salt and Sole
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The Drawing Room
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be jeweled
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Moby Dick Nauticals
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The Bedford Merchant
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Hewn
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Calico
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Strikers Sports Bar and Grill
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Cove 1606 Bar & Grille
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Ryan's Sports Pub & Billiards
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Legends Sports Pub
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Pub 6T5 Bar and Grille
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Le Beau's Tavern
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