Things to Do | New Bedford

Welcome to Melville House

In the 1860's Herman Melville often visited New Bedford, Massachusetts and enjoyed the comforts of his sister's home. Now his experience can be yours.

The Melville House stands on an historic street lined with stately federal and Victorian mansions built by 19th century sea captains. This restored 1855 Italian Empire house, originally built as a wedding gift by a wealthy sea merchant for his daughter, was once owned by Herman Melville's sister, Katherine and her husband, engineer and poet John Hoadley, who had become close to Melville. Read more...

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New Bedford

Buttonwood Park

Buttonwood Park

The largest and most visited public park in New Bedford is often referred to as the "Crown Jewel" of the New Bedford Park System. The original master plan for the park was developed in 1895 by Charles Eliot of the famed architectural firm of Olmsted, Olmsted and Eliot. In 1988, a new Olmsted-inspired master plan was adopted, serving as a blueprint for park improvements. In 2000 the park and parts of the neighborhood surrounding it were listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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The City That Lit The World

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.

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