Top Tourist attractions in New Bedford, United States

This is part of the National Park service with uniformed rangers greeting you. The museum preserves the nautical heritage of New Bedford, which was the leader in whaling in the 19th century. There is an excellent film reviewing the history. There are also displays and pamphlets for kids to complete to eat a ranger badge.

Admission is free (paid for by federal taxes).

Another great National Historic Site! The history behind New Bedford and whaling is absolutely stunning! The historic site is very walkable and there are many sites to see!

Interesting park about the whaling industry! I learned quite a bit from the signs and NPS buildings.

One of the best museums I've seen in years. In hindsight it was a dark chapter in human history, slaughtering the whales. But the educational aspect with the museum is well done. I had no idea how "international" the whaling industry was, and for hundreds of years. Congratulations to the staff for the excellent exhibits.

I enjoyed it... not a lot to see but wow at the whale skeletons and the storied they had on them. Very interesting. Glad I went

Went on a rainy day. Outstanding museum! Introductory IMAX 3d video on whales was really educational as it blended discussion of the worlds ocean currents with how warming oceans are affecting the animal world. The different levels cover scrimshaw, the whalers, whaling culture, the ups and downs of New Bedford and the static displays of whale skeletons, whaling boats and whaling implements brings it all around. I thoroughly recommend- now I want to read Melville's novels!

Fantastic museum showcasing New Bedford's maritime history. Exhibits include huge ships, whales, artifacts, and a 3d movie. Great place for kids or adults. Well worth the money.

We weren't expecting much but we're pleasantly surprised by how big and extensive it was. There is enough variety here to keep your interest. There were even some nice Japanese prints here but no Japanese art that depicted Portuguese sailors like in The Nacional Museum Soares dos Reis so minus .0001 stars.

Fascinating place located in old historic area of New Bedford. My husband and I could have spent much longer than thr 2 hours we were there if we wanted to. There is so much to see and learn about whales and whaling.

Very quiet museum, lots of text displays on the history of whaling. Our favorite part was meeting historic whaling wives Ruth and Abby on the front lawn and listening to their stories!

Very interesting museum! Way more content than we expected. The Lagoda ship was definitely a highlight, and the whale skeletons really helped you grasp just how large these creatures are!
As a military family, we especially appreciated the partnership with Blue Star Museums. Thanks for a great experience!

Butler Flats Light Station is an adorable sparkplug lighthouse built in 1898 that has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1987.

Amazing museum, with so many great exhibits. From the minute you walk in you are entranced by the art, culture, science and history. The museum boasts the largest scrimshaw collection in the world. Whether you're viewing the giant whale skeletons, the interactive Whaling ship that takes up 2 floors, the roof top observation deck or the sculpture of the life size whale heart, you will continue to be in awe. It is located in a National Historical Park in New Bedford. People often travel a great distance to visit here, as it was once the most prestige whaling port in the world. If you live in New Bedford or will be visiting New Bedford, it is a must visit museum.

The New Bedford Whaling Museum is an exceptional destination for anyone who wants to learn about the history of whaling. I was surprised by the extensive exhibit space the museum offers and what remarkable items of artistic and historical value are inside. I definitely recommend a visit!

In Buzzards Bays

Great museum, with a thorough history of Whaling and it's impact on the region

This is an interesting place to visit, more because I am from (the original) Bedford. Unfortunately it shuts quite early so we did not get long here. Fortunately it was a stop off between Boston and NY and not a special trip. If you are driving along the 195 it’s a simple detour to visit.
There are some interesting exhibits and a lot of history. Its also worth having a walk around this part of town to see the old style buildings. The museum nearby is also interesting but expensive.

Very nice place

Full moon tonight.

One of the warmest receptionists I've ever met - they made the visit pleasant. Visit was Saturday August 20, 2022. Small facility with a historical appetizer for upcoming Whaling Museum stop. It was very clean. As a photographer, the displayed pictures were a welcome sight. I'd visit again, just to say hi to the staff. Thanks for being so kind.

egg island

Beautiful sparkplug lighthouse, nicely visible from the Harborwalk.

Butler Flats Lighthouse is a nice lighthouse to photograph and visit.