New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park

Things To Do Near New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park

The New Bedford Whaling National Historic Park commemorates the whaling heritage of this port during the 19th century. At the park, you can explore several museums that delve into the history of whaling in this area and take a look at some of the historic buildings. You can even see the Ernestina schooner, which was used to survey the Arctic during WWII. Make sure to visit the Seamen’s Bethel and see the names of some of the whalers who were killed in a fire at the chapel in 1866.

Hiking Trails

• Daniel Ricketson Nature Trail

  The Daniel Ricketson Nature Trail is a loop trail that is relatively flat and easy to traverse. The trail circles the park, and it is a great option for taking your dog for a walk during your trip. Because of the paved nature of the trail, biking on the path is also a great option for kids.

  Location

  Brooklawn St, New Bedford, MA 02745

  Length

  0.7 miles

  Intensity

  Easy

• Ridge Hill Reserve Trail

  The Ridge Hill Reserve Trail is a loop trail that goes up to and along the Copicut Reservoir. It is a dog and horse friendly trail, so bring your animals for a bit of exercise. During the rainy time of the year, the trail can become pretty wet, so make sure to prepare for that if it rains during your travels.

  Location

  Collins Corner Rd, Dartmouth, MA 02747

  Length

  2 miles

  Intensity

  Moderate

• Phoenix Rail Trail

  The Phoenix Rail Trail is a paved path that follows the route of the Fairhaven Railroad. This trail is the first part of a bike trail network that links Rhode Island with Cape Cod. It is dog-friendly, and it’s great for kids to enjoy as well.

  Location

  14 Main St, Fairhaven, MA 02719

  Length

  4 miles

  Intensity

  4 miles

Sightseeing

• Palmer’s Island Lighthouse

  The Palmer’s Island Lighthouse is a 24-foot tall building made of stone and was used during the whaling era in New Bedford. It was first lit in 1849 with whale oil to help bring the ships to the shore. When the Hurricane Barrier was built in 1966, the lighthouse was deemed obsolete. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

  Location

  Palmer Island, New Bedford, MA 02744

• Buttonwood Park Zoo

  The Buttonwood Park Zoo is home to a variety of animals from around the world. It is a relatively small zoo, but it meets high standards for animal care and education programs that are offered. Make sure to check the calendar for upcoming events and experiences that you can take part in. 

  Location

  425 Hawthorn St, New Bedford, MA 02740

• Fort Phoenix

  Fort Phoenix is a state fort that was used during the Revolutionary War. Built in 1775, the fort is now one of the smallest state parks in Massachusetts. While here, you’ll be able to see the famous John Paul Jones Cannon and learn about the artillery that was in use during the formative years of the nation.

  Location

  Beacon St, Fairhaven, MA 02719

Museums

• New Bedford Whaling Museum

  New Bedford served as a major port for the whaling industry during its early history, and this museum acknowledges this history while also working to educate about the science of whales. Additionally, while here, you can learn more about the history of the people of New Bedford. Collections highlight the marine life as well as the maritime experience of the area.

  Location

  18 Johnny Cake Hill, New Bedford, MA 02740

• New Bedford Art Museum

  The New Bedford Art Museum has several exhibits throughout the year that focus on a wide variety of topics. They have several artists in residence with ongoing exhibits, and they also have specialized exhibits for artists like Ruth E. Carter. There’s a museum shop where you can purchase items to take home with you.

  Location

  608 Pleasant St, New Bedford, MA 02740

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

• Carter’s Clothing

  Carter’s Clothing is a family-owned store that has been in operation for more than five decades. There are clothing essentials in the store from a wide selection of brands. They also carry shoes, hats, gloves, and more.

  Location

  55 William St, New Bedford, MA 02740

• The Landing Gift Shop & Chandlery

  The Landing Gift Shop & Chandlery is a boutique store where you can get gifts to take home with you. They have a lot of custom-made goods that can be used in your home or RV. You can also find canvas harbor charts in the store, which can be a great souvenir. 

  Location

  98 Front St, New Bedford, MA 02740

• Quahog Republic Whaler’s Tavern

  The Quahog Republic Whaler’s Tavern nods to the seafaring history that you can find in this city with a historic building on cobblestone streets. There is a raw bar where you can enjoy fresh seafood. The fish and chips are delightful, but they also have a surf and turf burger that combines ground beef and lobster.

  Location

  24 N Water St, New Bedford, MA 02740

• Freestone’s City Grill

  Freestone’s City Grill has been serving food for more than four decades, but the restaurant is located in an old bank that dates back to 1877. They serve everything from a handheld sandwich to a full entrée with sides. Some popular meals at this restaurant include Freestone’s Stir Fry, the Tuscan Grilled Chicken, and the Portuguese Surf and Turf.

  Location

  41 William St, New Bedford, MA 02740

How To Get To New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park

From Providence, RI: Take I-195 E to Exit 26 and merge onto MA-18 S. Then, turn right onto Elm Street. Turn left onto Acushnet Ave. In two blocks, turn left onto William Street. The park will be on your left.

Address

33 William Street, New Bedford, MA, 02740

Fee: Entry fee $0

New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park is a great place to visit and step into the whaling industry during the 19th and 20th centuries. The park provides a story of global immigration to the area. This is also an area that is relatively close to Boston and Arcadia National Park, so traveling in an RV will make these sites more accessible.