Located in Bristol county, Massachusetts, the coastal city of New Bedford is nicknamed the ‘whaling city’ because it used to be one of the world’s main ports for the whaling industry. Tourism appears to be an increasing industry and focuses on festivals and fairs as well as on the ancient whaling trade. New Bedford is home to a number of historic houses, museums, galleries and several parks and playgrounds.
Visitors to New Bedford are attracted by its various historic lighthouses, above all A Palmer’s Island Light at the inner harbor, dating from 1849. The New Bedford Whaling Museum is the leading museum in the country dedicated to the past relations of humans with whales. The museum is situated in the center of the exceptional New Bedford Whaling National Park.
New Bedford also features a couple of walking trails for the more active visitors, and some deserted beaches for the less energetic. Comfortable harbor tours of New Bedford’s working waterfront will take you to a whaling era lighthouse and the city’s world-renowned commercial fishing fleet. The region’s ethnic diversity provides eclectic dining experiences, particularly authentic Portuguese cuisine and the freshest seafood.
Highlights
A Palmer’s Island Light: this lighthouse was built in 1849 and is the central part of the City Seal; it was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
New Bedford Whaling Museum: the country’s largest museum devoted to the history of 19th century American whaling displays among other things the world’s biggest model of a 19th century whaling ship and the reconstruction of an uncommon Blue whale.
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park: encompassing a 20-acre area in New Bedford’s historic district, this attraction houses the Schooner Ernestina, Waterfront Park, the Roch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum, and much more.
Festivals: the city hosts various annual events and festivals, above all the Greater New Bedford Summerfest (July) and the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament, the nation’s largest Portuguese cultural celebration (August).