New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park (U.S. National Park Service)

QUICKLINKS:

The City That Lit the World

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.

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 exhibits, plan your day with helpful staff, visit the gift shop, or take a guided tour (offered seasonally) of the historic district.

		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...

		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. More

		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. More

Write to

New Bedford Whaling NHP
33 William Street
New Bedford, MA 02740

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.