Explore the Rich Maritime Heritage at New Bedford Whaling Museum
Discover the legacy of whaling and maritime culture at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, a captivating tourist attraction in Massachusetts.
Nestled in the heart of New Bedford, Massachusetts, the New Bedford Whaling Museum invites tourists to delve into the fascinating history of whaling and maritime culture. With thousands of artifacts, immersive exhibits, and engaging programs, this museum offers a unique glimpse into the past, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.
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
- Visit on a weekday for fewer crowds and a more personalized experience.
- Don't miss the stunning views from the museum's observation deck.
- Check the museum's calendar for special events and exhibitions during your visit.
- Plan to spend at least two to three hours to fully explore the exhibits.
- Take advantage of the museum's gift shop for unique maritime-themed souvenirs.
Getting There
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Public Transit
From downtown Providence, walk to the Kennedy Plaza transit hub. Take the Peter Pan Bus Lines or Greyhound to New Bedford. The journey takes approximately 1 hour. Once you arrive at the New Bedford bus terminal, exit the terminal and walk to the nearest bus stop for the local bus service (like the New Bedford Transit). Board a bus heading toward Johnny Cake Hill, and disembark at the stop closest to the New Bedford Whaling Museum.
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Bike
If you prefer biking, rent a bike from a local bike-sharing service in Providence. Head south towards the East Bay Bike Path, then follow the path until you reach the intersection with Route 6. Follow Route 6 south, which leads directly to New Bedford. The ride is approximately 20 miles and should take around 2 hours. Once you arrive in New Bedford, navigate to Johnny Cake Hill, where the museum is located.
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Walking
Walking to New Bedford from Providence is not practical due to the distance (approximately 20 miles). However, if you are determined, you can take a scenic route via the paths along the waterfront. Start at Waterplace Park, head south along the river, then follow the signs to Route 6. Be aware that this will take several hours and proper walking gear is necessary.
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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Lafayette-Durfee House
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Audubon Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge
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Fort Barton and Ft. Barton Woods
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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 Art Museum
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Nathan and Polly Johnson House
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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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New Bedford Covewalk
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Harbor Walk
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Buttonwood Park Zoo
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Essential places to dine
Tia Maria's European Café
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Carmines at Candleworks
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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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1st Edition Collectibles
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The MadLila
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TL6 the Gallery
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U7
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Shimmer
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rose Alley Ale House
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Cultivator Shoals
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The Garden
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The Pour Farm Tavern
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The Vault Music Hall & Pub
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Knuckle Heads
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The Bar
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Redwood Saloon
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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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