New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
National Historical Park · Massachusetts
NPS Photo
US National Historical Park in Massachusetts
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park is a United States National Historical Park in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Partially owned by several entities and maintained by the National Park Service (NPS), the park commemorates the heritage of the world's preeminent whaling port during the nineteenth century.
About New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
"The town itself is perhaps the dearest place to live in, in all New England..nowhere in all America will you find more patrician-like houses, parks and gardens more opulent, than in New Bedford…all these brave houses and flowery gardens came from the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans. One and all, they were harpooned and dragged up hither from the bottom of the sea." H. Melville, "Moby-Dick"
Park Photos
Activities
Operating Hours
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
Welcome to New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park! The Visitor Center and Garden provide a distinctive urban park experience. Operating hours vary seasonally and may differ from those of our local partners/businesses within the park boundary and throughout the city. Please refer to the Visitor Center hours listed below for access and note that park grounds remain open year-round. Holiday Closures: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
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| Sunrise to Sunset | Sunrise to Sunset | Sunrise to Sunset | Sunrise to Sunset | Sunrise to Sunset | Sunrise to Sunset | Sunrise to Sunset |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park?
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park is free to enter.
What are the best activities at New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park?
Popular activities at New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park include: Junior Ranger Program, Shopping, Bookstore and Park Store.
What is the weather like at New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park?
In New Bedford, Massachusetts, you’ll experience all four seasons in their full glory! Summers are warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 56°F to 83°F, perfect for enjoying the coastal breeze. As the year turns, fall brings crisp, cool weather, with temperatures between 30°F and 70°F, offering the ideal backdrop for stunning autumn foliage. Winters are chilly, with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 45°F, occasionally bringing snow to the scenic city. By spring, the weather begins to warm up again
How do I get to New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park?
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park Visitor Center is centrally located in downtown New Bedford at 33 William Street. If you're arriving by car, take I-195 and use Exit 25, following signs for Downtown New Bedford. Parking is available in nearby garage or street parking around the visitor center. If you’re traveling by public transportation, the local SRTA buses service the downtown area, with stops close to the visitor center. Once in the area, the Visitor Center is a short walk.
Entrance Fees
Free Admission
Weather
In New Bedford, Massachusetts, you’ll experience all four seasons in their full glory! Summers are warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 56°F to 83°F, perfect for enjoying the coastal breeze. As the year turns, fall brings crisp, cool weather, with temperatures between 30°F and 70°F, offering the ideal backdrop for stunning autumn foliage. Winters are chilly, with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 45°F, occasionally bringing snow to the scenic city. By spring, the weather begins to warm up again
Directions
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park Visitor Center is centrally located in downtown New Bedford at 33 William Street. If you're arriving by car, take I-195 and use Exit 25, following signs for Downtown New Bedford. Parking is available in nearby garage or street parking around the visitor center. If you’re traveling by public transportation, the local SRTA buses service the downtown area, with stops close to the visitor center. Once in the area, the Visitor Center is a short walk.
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Official Resources
NPS Official WebsiteMore Parks in Massachusetts
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