New Bedford Harbor
New Bedford was the mid 19th century’s preeminent whaling port and for a time “the richest city in the world.” Come stroll down cobblestone streets, visit the world’s largest whaling museum, tour a whaling merchant’s home and whaleman's chapel, and walk a 19th century schooner’s decks. Walk in the footsteps of Herman Melville and Frederick Douglass and learn about a remarkable era.
Originally built as a bank in 1854, the National Park Visitor Center sits in the heart of New Bedford's historic district.
National Park Visitor Center
Built in 1853 and located in the heart of the historic district, the National Park Visitor Center is a great place to begin your visit to New Bedford. Stop by and pick up brochures, view orientation exhibits, plan your day with helpful staff, visit the gift shop, or take a guided tour (offered seasonally) of the historic district. MoreThe New Bedford Whaling Museum
The New Bedford Whaling Museum is the world's preeminent whaling museum and houses special collections, long-term and changing exhibits, rare whale skeletons, a half-scale model of a whaling bark and much more...The Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum
This 28 room Greek Revival mansion was built in 1834 and chronicles 150 years of economic, social and domestic life in New Bedford. The museum is open to the public and hosts house and garden tours, special exhibits annually, and an assortment of special events.The Seamen's Bethel
Known as the Whalemen's Chapel in Herman Melville's Moby-Dick, today the Seamen's Bethel serves as a memorial to whalemen and fishermen who have lost their lives at sea. The Bethel is open to the public Memorial Day through Columbus day. MoreSource: New Bedford Whaling NHP
33 William Street
New Bedford, MA 02740
http://www.nps.gov/nebe/
E-mail Us
Phone
Visitor Information
(508) 996-4095
Fax
(508) 984-1250
Climate
The summers are mild while the winters can be cold with wind, ice, and snow. Normal temperature in January is 30.6 F and in July 73.5 F. Please wear comfortable walking shoes, and dress according to the weather.