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

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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.

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New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park is Social! Find us on Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube to view photos and videos, share your park experiences, and interact with park staff.

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An African American whaleman on a whaleship

Communities of Whaling Online Exhibit

The online component of the park's Communities of Whaling exhibit is now up and running. The online exhibit features an interactive map that explores a diverse 1800s New Bedford neighborhood found Behind the Mansions. The exhibit also features a Faces of Whaling flip book that highlights individuals representing New Bedford's many ethnic groups with ties to the whaling industry.

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Hidden pictures illustration depicting a ship captain steering his ship.

New For Kids

New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park is pleased to announce the launch of a new interactive hidden pictures activity for kids. Learn about some of the tools used by 19th century whalemen by helping the captain find all his tools for a whaling voyage. More

		Dock-u-mentaries Join us for Dock-U-Mentaries, a FREE film series about New Bedford's working waterfront. Films are shown on the third Friday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Corson Maritime Learning Center theater. This month's program, Storm Warriors: The Story of the U.S. Life Saving Service, tells the dramatic story of shipwrecks and rescues in America's early Coast Guard, the United States Life Saving Service. 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.

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