New Bedford Travel Guide

Welcome to New Bedford, MA!

Famed as one of the world's most powerful whaling ports during the 19th century, New Bedford retains status as a major American fishing port to this day. The sheltered, deep-water harbor is set at the mouth of the Acushnet River on Buzzards Bay and is home to an impressive fishing fleet, ferry services, cruise ship docking, recreational boating and the official vessel of Massachusetts—the century-old schooner, Ernestina. New Bedford's illustrious whaling past is honored at the Whaling Museum, which boasts the world's most comprehensive collection of whaling artifacts, and Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, located downtown by the humming waterfront. The sea continues to provide for the city and every September New Bedford's residents celebrate its bounty and the local commercial fishing industry during the lively annual Working Waterfront Festival.

But there is more to New Bedford than fishing. Located 60 mi (96 km) south of Boston in Southeast Massachusetts, this culturally rich city abounds with compelling shops and galleries and a diversity of cafes and restaurants—many of which serve local seafood—while grand, old mansions such as the Rotch-Jones-Duff House stand remnant of the glory days of whaling. The Buttonwood Park Zoo highlights the natural world of New England with a focus on regional marine and wildlife conservation, and the renowned Greater New Bedford Summerfest pulls in the crowds with a showcase of folk music and art every summer.

Tourist Attractions

Hotels & Motels