Discover the Rich Maritime Heritage at New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
Explore the rich maritime history and cultural heritage of New Bedford at the Whaling National Historical Park, a must-visit for all history enthusiasts.
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park immerses visitors in the city's storied maritime past. Explore exhibits, guided tours, and scenic walks that celebrate New Bedford's whaling legacy.
A brief summary to New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park Visitor Center
- 33 William St, New Bedford, Massachusetts, 02740, US
- +1508-996-4095
- Visit website
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the summer for special events and guided tours that bring the history alive.
- Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby historic district for a complete experience of 19th-century architecture.
- Check the park's website for any educational programs or activities tailored for families and children.
- Take advantage of the scenic waterfront for great photography opportunities, especially at sunset.
- Stop by the Visitor Center first to get maps, brochures, and tips on maximizing your visit.
Getting There
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Bus
From downtown Providence, walk to the Kennedy Plaza bus terminal. Look for the Peter Pan Bus Lines or the RIPTA bus services. Take the #60 bus towards New Bedford. The journey will take approximately 1 hour. Once you arrive in New Bedford, disembark at the stop closest to William Street. From there, walk 5 minutes to 33 William St, where the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park Visitor Center is located.
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Train and Bus
From Providence, head to the Providence Amtrak Station. Take an Amtrak train to the New Bedford station. Once you arrive, you can take a local bus or a taxi to reach 33 William St. The visitor center is a short walk from the bus stop.
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Taxi or Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct route, you can use a taxi or a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Simply request a ride to 33 William St, New Bedford, MA 02740. The trip will take around 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Discover more about New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park Visitor Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Waterfront Historic Area LeaguE
0.1 km
Explore New Bedford's maritime legacy at the Waterfront Historic Area League, where history, culture, and community come together on the waterfront.
Custom House Square
0.1 km
Explore the serene beauty of Custom House Square in New Bedford, MA, a perfect park for relaxation, picnics, and community events.
New Bedford Tourism Office
0.3 km
Explore New Bedford's maritime history and vibrant arts scene at the New Bedford Tourism Office, your gateway to unforgettable adventures.
Merrill's Wharf Historic District
0.4 km
Explore the historic charm of Merrill's Wharf Historic District in New Bedford, Massachusetts, where maritime history and scenic beauty come together.
Abolition Row Park
0.5 km
Explore Abolition Row Park in New Bedford, MA, a serene escape that honors the legacy of the abolitionist movement amidst beautiful landscapes.
New Bedford Historical Society
0.5 km
Uncover the maritime heritage and cultural stories of New Bedford at the Historical Society, a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers.
North Bedford Historic District
0.8 km
Discover the charm and history of the North Bedford Historic District in New Bedford, MA – a maritime treasure trove with stunning architecture.
New Bedford Preservation Society
0.8 km
Explore the rich maritime history and architectural beauty of New Bedford at the Preservation Society, a key cultural gem in Massachusetts.
Prince Henry the Navigator Monument
0.9 km
Experience the Prince Henry the Navigator Monument, a symbol of exploration and maritime heritage in New Bedford, Massachusetts.
Acushnet Cedar Swamp State Reservation
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First Indian Reservation in the United States
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Discover the rich history of the First Indian Reservation in the United States, a significant landmark located in Tiverton, Rhode Island.
Elizabeth Islands
19.7 km
Explore the enchanting Elizabeth Islands, a hidden gem in Massachusetts, featuring breathtaking landscapes, serene beaches, and rich wildlife for nature lovers.
Lafayette-Durfee House
20.9 km
Explore the Lafayette-Durfee House, a historical landmark in Fall River, MA, showcasing 19th-century architecture and rich local history.
Audubon Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge
23.5 km
Explore the Audubon Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge in Tiverton, RI—a tranquil sanctuary for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Fort Barton and Ft. Barton Woods
23.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
New Bedford Whaling Museum
0.1 km
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New Bedford Port Society: Seamen’s Bethel and Mariner’s Home
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New Bedford Art Museum
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Explore the New Bedford Art Museum, a vibrant hub of creativity showcasing contemporary and historical art in the heart of Massachusetts.
Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey
0.3 km
Discover the Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey, a historical landmark in New Bedford that embodies the rich maritime heritage of Massachusetts.
Nathan and Polly Johnson House
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Explore the Nathan and Polly Johnson House, a pivotal landmark of the Underground Railroad, in historic New Bedford, Massachusetts. Uncover rich stories of freedom and courage.
New Bedford Museum of Glass
0.6 km
Explore the exquisite world of glass art at the New Bedford Museum of Glass, where creativity and craftsmanship come to life.
New Bedford Waterfront
0.7 km
Explore New Bedford Waterfront, where maritime history meets modern charm, offering scenic views, fresh seafood, and vibrant cultural experiences.
Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum
0.7 km
Explore the elegance of 19th-century New England at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum, a stunning blend of history and nature.
New Bedford Armory
0.7 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of the New Bedford Armory, a key historical landmark in Massachusetts.
New Bedford Fire Museum
0.9 km
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Clasky Common Park
1.1 km
Discover the beauty of Clasky Common Park, a serene urban oasis in New Bedford, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and community events.
Buttonwood Park
2.2 km
Discover the tranquility and recreational delights of Buttonwood Park, a scenic urban oasis in New Bedford, Massachusetts, perfect for nature lovers and families alike.
Harbor Walk
2.3 km
Discover the scenic beauty and rich maritime history of New Bedford at Harbor Walk, a picturesque waterfront attraction perfect for all ages.
New Bedford Covewalk
2.3 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of New Bedford Covewalk, a stunning waterfront park perfect for relaxation, scenic views, and nature lovers alike.
Buttonwood Park Zoo
2.4 km
Immerse yourself in nature at Buttonwood Park Zoo, a family-friendly attraction in New Bedford, MA, featuring diverse wildlife and engaging educational programs.
Essential places to dine
Freestone's City Grill
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Discover Freestone's City Grill: A culinary delight in New Bedford featuring fresh American cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Carmines at Candleworks
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Carmines at Candleworks in New Bedford – where flavor meets tradition in every dish.
Tia Maria's European Café
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Experience the flavors of Europe at Tia Maria's European Café in New Bedford – where every meal is a delightful journey.
Quahog Republic Whaler's Tavern
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Experience fresh seafood and vibrant atmosphere at Quahog Republic Whaler's Tavern in New Bedford - where every meal tells a story.
Destination Soups Inc
0.2 km
Experience delicious sandwiches and hearty soups at Destination Soups Inc – where flavor meets comfort in New Bedford.
Brick Pizzeria Napoletana
0.2 km
Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza made with fresh ingredients at Brick Pizzeria Napoletana in New Bedford.
dNB Craft Kitchen
0.2 km
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Cork Wine and Tapas
0.2 km
Discover exquisite seafood and Spanish-inspired tapas at Cork Wine and Tapas in New Bedford - A must-visit culinary destination.
No Problemo
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Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at No Problemo in New Bedford—a culinary haven offering delicious dishes at affordable prices.
The Black Whale
0.2 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at The Black Whale in New Bedford - where fresh flavors meet stunning harbor views.
The Whale's Tail
0.2 km
Experience fresh seafood and stunning harbor views at The Whale's Tail in New Bedford – a culinary gem on Fisherman’s Wharf.
222 Union Restaurant and Bar
0.3 km
Discover delectable cuisine and vibrant nightlife at 222 Union Restaurant and Bar in New Bedford - where great taste meets good company.
Izzy's
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Experience authentic Cape Verdean cuisine at Izzy's in New Bedford - where every dish tells a story.
Miguel's Restaurant
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Back Door Burgers & More
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Moby Dick Nauticals
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The Bedford Merchant
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The Drawing Room
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Discover The Drawing Room: A unique gift shop in New Bedford featuring exquisite artistic handicrafts and boutique treasures that embody local creativity.
Conversational Arts
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Discover unique local art and home decor at Conversational Arts in New Bedford, a treasure trove of creativity and craftsmanship.
Salt and Sole
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be jeweled
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Hewn
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Calico
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1st Edition Collectibles
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Capri Fashion & Home Decor
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TL6 the Gallery
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U7
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Cojo's Toy World
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The MadLila
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Shimmer
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Garden
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The Pour Farm Tavern
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Rose Alley Ale House
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The Vault Music Hall & Pub
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Cultivator Shoals
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Sixes & Sevens
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Knuckle Heads
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The Bar
1.9 km
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Redwood Saloon
2.8 km
Experience the rustic charm of Redwood Saloon in New Bedford, where local culture meets a cozy atmosphere and delightful drinks await.
Strikers Sports Bar and Grill
3.2 km
Experience the ultimate sports bar atmosphere at Strikers Sports Bar and Grill in New Bedford, where great food, drinks, and entertainment come together.
Cove 1606 Bar & Grille
3.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere at Cove 1606 Bar & Grille, a top dining destination in New Bedford, Massachusetts.
Ryan's Sports Pub & Billiards
3.6 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ryan's Sports Pub & Billiards, where great food and sports unite in New Bedford, MA.
Legends Sports Pub
4.1 km
Legends Sports Pub: The ultimate destination for sports fans and food lovers in New Bedford, MA, offering great vibes and delicious bites.
Pub 6T5 Bar and Grille
5.0 km
Discover the heart of New Bedford at Pub 6T5 Bar and Grille, a lively pub offering delicious food, craft drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Le Beau's Tavern
5.1 km
Discover New Bedford's vibrant nightlife at Le Beau's Tavern, a cozy bar offering a diverse selection of drinks and a friendly atmosphere.
