The New Bedford half Marathon The New Bedford Half Marathon is an annual spring race that spans 13.1 miles of New Bedford. This fully volunteer-led race hosted by the Friendly Sons of Saint Patrick with the support of Mayor Jon Mitchell and the City of New Bedford is one of the oldest half marathon distance events in the Northeast. Runners come… click for more details

Founded in 1997, the Azorean Maritime Heritage Society promotes Azorean culture and shared whaling heritage by raising awareness and pride within New England's Azorean-American community. They maintain three authentic Azorean whaleboats—Pico, Faial, and Bela Vista—which are used for cultural, historical, and recreational events. Currently, there are only 63 Azorean whaleboats in the world: these are the only three in the… click for more details

Discover New Bedford and stay fit! The New Bedford Bike Committee bicycle tourism map has all the current bike lanes, and racks and the various attractions nearby in New Bedford. Check out the biking map! click for more details

This 97 acre multi-use park was initially planned in the 1890’s by Charles Eliot of the famous landscape architectural firm of Olmstead, Olmstead and Eliot. Comprised of both active and passive recreation areas; with forest, fields and a large pond, it is also home to one of the finest small zoos in the country. Retaining its historic landscapes, the park… click for more details

New Bedford beaches are available to the general public.  Seasonal Lifeguards 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM Volley Ball Court – Restrooms – Outdoor Showers – Playground Parking passes are available at the Parks, Recreation & Beaches office at 181 Hillman St. Building 3 or the City Clerk's Office at 133 William St. click for more details

Located on the southern tip of the city in Fort Taber Park and operated by the Fort Taber-Fort Rodman Historical Association, Inc., the museum preserves and interprets New Bedford’s long and rich military history. Walk through the museum and you will see artifacts from every major American War, the evolution of Clark's Point to Fort Rodman, as well as photos… click for more details

A 50-acre waterfront park providing over a mile of ocean frontage located on scenic Clark’s Point, which projects into Buzzards Bay.  The park incorporates historical landmarks, offers a variety of amenities and opportunities for both passive and active recreation. The centerpiece of the park is the historic Fort Rodman, built between 1857 and 1871 as part of the nation’s sea… click for more details

This museum displays art and cultural artifacts from the Island of Madeira: a fascinating collection of art and fine crafts including embroidery, lace, linens, pottery and weaving. Traditional costumes of Folkloric dancers are on display along with an authentic ‘corca’ or sled used to transport visitors from the village of Monte high atop a hill outside of Funchal, the capital… click for more details

Located in the Acushnet River at the entrance to New Bedford Harbor, this 6-acre island is designated for walking and other passive recreational uses, such as bird watching. History of Palmer’s Island Pre-dating the Pilgrims’ arrival in Plymouth by 18 years, English explorer Bartholomew Gosnold first surveyed the 6-acre island during his exploration of New Bedford Harbor in 1602. The island was… click for more details

Discover your Bay at the Buzzards Bay Coalition’s Richard C. Wheeler Bay Learning Center, a free environmental exploration center located in downtown New Bedford’s Historic District. The Bay Learning Center is your destination to learn about our local waters and how you can protect and enjoy them. click for more details

The Seamen's Bethel, nestled in the historic port city of New Bedford, stands as a testament to the rich maritime heritage of the region. Established in 1822, this iconic chapel has served as a spiritual haven for generations of mariners. The nearby Mariner's Home, established in 1789, provided a welcome refuge for sailors returning from voyages. What is a Bethel? The term… click for more details

New Bedford's annual Seaport Art Walk was founded in 2013 by local artist Jessica Bregoli and was the city's first large format outdoor public art installation. Each summer local artists install sculptures and murals, strategically placed along New Bedford's working waterfront and Seaport Cultural District.   click for more details

The Blue Lane is a cohesive designation for the city’s waterfront path from the CoveWalk and HarborWalk along the South End peninsula to the planned RiverWalk on the banks of the Acushnet River in the North End. Spanning the shoreline of the city as a signal to residents and tourists of a contiguous set of recreational pathways that allows travel… click for more details

New Bedford beaches are available to the general public.  Seasonal Lifeguards 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM Wheelchair Accessible – Restrooms – Outdoor Showers Parking passes are available at the Parks, Recreation & Beaches office at 181 Hillman St. Building 3 or the City Clerk's Office at 133 William St. click for more details

Lewis Temple Memorial Sculptor James C. Toatley (1941-1986). Installation: 1987. Lewis Temple (1800-1854), a free black man and proprietor of a local blacksmith shop by 1836, invented the “Temple Toggle Iron” in 1848, a pivot-head harpoon which revolutionized the whaling industry. Commissioned in 1985 by the City of New Bedford to create a memorial to Lewis Temple, local African-American sculptor Jim Toatley… click for more details

This museum displays art and cultural artifacts from the Island of Madeira: a fascinating collection of art and fine crafts including embroidery, lace, linens, pottery and weaving. Traditional costumes of Folkloric dancers are on display along with an authentic ‘corca’ or sled used to transport visitors from the village of Monte high atop a hill outside of Funchal, the capital… click for more details

The Nathan and Polly Johnson House is a National Historic Landmark for its role as an Underground Railroad site and the first free home of Frederick Douglass. Nathan and Polly Johnson, African American entrepreneurs, were among the City's best known abolitionists in the 19th century. Constructed in 1800, the Johnson House has recently been restored to its 1857 splendor. Tours of… click for more details

The Museum REOPENS July 5th. Closed through winter each year on September 5th.* The New Bedford Fire Museum is a unique place dedicated to the presentation of the development of urban firefighting technology, equipment, and organizations. A preserved collection of antique equipment and memorabilia is on display at the Fire Museum at Old Station No.4 just outside the Historical District. Old… click for more details

Located in New Bedford, the nation's most valuable fishing port, the New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center is dedicated to preserving and presenting the story of the fishing industry past, present, and future through exhibits, programs, and archives. Check back for new exhibits and special events alongside permanent exhibits like, More than a Job: Work and Community in New Bedford’s Fishing… click for more details

Established in 1852, the New Bedford Free Public Library is among the earliest free municipal libraries in the United States. The core of the library’s original holdings contained books, periodicals and other materials purchased from the New Bedford Social Library (founded in 1807), which had assimilated the collections of the Encyclopedia Society, New Bedford Library Society, New Bedford Athenaeum and… click for more details

The New Bedford Whaling Museum is the largest museum in the United States devoted to the history of the American whaling industry and its greatest fishing port, New Bedford. It houses the most extensive collection of art, artifacts, and manuscripts pertaining to American whaling in the age of sail–the late 18th century to the early 20th century–when sailing ships dominated… click for more details

New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park was established by Congress in 1996 to tell the stories of whaling, the working waterfront, and the Underground Railroad. These stories are filled with people who are as fascinating as Melville’s fictional Captain Ahab who battled Moby-Dick; and include Frederick Douglass who found his freedom and his voice in New Bedford, Paul Cuffe, a sea captain and an entrepreneur… click for more details

Located in the Acushnet River at the entrance to New Bedford Harbor, this 6-acre island is designated for walking and other passive recreational uses, such as bird watching. History of Palmer’s Island Pre-dating the Pilgrims’ arrival in Plymouth by 18 years, English explorer Bartholomew Gosnold first surveyed the 6-acre island during his exploration of New Bedford Harbor in 1602. The island was… click for more details

The Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum is named for the three prominent families who resided at 396 County Street. The house and gardens chronicle 150 years (1834-1981) of economic and social life in the city, as reflected in the lives and stories of those who lived and worked at the property. The museum offers permanent and changing exhibits, lecture series… click for more details

National Historic Landmark and gift of the Republic of Cape Verde, Schooner Ernestina is the official vessel of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Launched in Essex in 1894 as the Effie M. Morrissey, she sailed as a Grand Banks fishing schooner, far-north Arctic explorer and trans-Atlantic Cape Verdean packet. Her homeport is New Bedford, ship's berth: New Bedford State Pier, Southwest… click for more details

The Seamen's Bethel, nestled in the historic port city of New Bedford, stands as a testament to the rich maritime heritage of the region. Established in 1822, this iconic chapel has served as a spiritual haven for generations of mariners. The nearby Mariner's Home, established in 1789, provided a welcome refuge for sailors returning from voyages. What is a Bethel? The term… click for more details

Whaleman Statue Sculptor: Bela Lyon Pratt (1867-1917). Installation: 1913. The Whaleman, a gift of distinguished citizen William W. Crapo to the City of New Bedford, was unveiled Jun 20, 1913 on Library Square in the presence of thousands of spectators. This statue of the boat-steerer set up in granite and bronze was erected in remembrance of the energy and fortitude, the toil… click for more details

Buttonwood Park Zoo, the most visited attraction in Bristol County Buttonwood Park Zoo is your nature connection! Come visit one of the finest small zoos in the United States and encounter animals from home and around the world. Take a journey through the "Berkshires to the Sea" exhibits to meet black bears, mountain lions, river otters, bald eagles, and seals. Cross… click for more details

Located on the southern tip of the city in Fort Taber Park and operated by the Fort Taber-Fort Rodman Historical Association, Inc., the museum preserves and interprets New Bedford’s long and rich military history. Walk through the museum and you will see artifacts from every major American War, the evolution of Clark's Point to Fort Rodman, as well as photos… click for more details

A 50-acre waterfront park providing over a mile of ocean frontage located on scenic Clark’s Point, which projects into Buzzards Bay.  The park incorporates historical landmarks, offers a variety of amenities and opportunities for both passive and active recreation. The centerpiece of the park is the historic Fort Rodman, built between 1857 and 1871 as part of the nation’s sea… click for more details

Ready to embark on a whale of a good time? Discover this one-of-a-kind collection of sites, stories, and adventures curated by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism. The Massachusetts Whale Trail links nearly 40 museums, attractions, whale watching excursions, historic sites, and tours dedicated to our special connection with these beloved creatures of the deep. Explore locations in Southeastern… click for more details

The Museum REOPENS July 5th. Closed through winter each year on September 5th.* The New Bedford Fire Museum is a unique place dedicated to the presentation of the development of urban firefighting technology, equipment, and organizations. A preserved collection of antique equipment and memorabilia is on display at the Fire Museum at Old Station No.4 just outside the Historical District. Old… click for more details

Embark on a tour of the historic port of New Bedford, the nation's #1 Commercial Fishing Port! Board "The Acushnet" on Pier 3 and bask in the aromas of The Whale's Tail, Mirasol's Cafe Express, and The Black Whale- all excellent places to quench your thirst and satisfy your appetite before or after your tour. Sail the same waters as Herman… click for more details

The New Bedford Whaling Museum is the largest museum in the United States devoted to the history of the American whaling industry and its greatest fishing port, New Bedford. It houses the most extensive collection of art, artifacts, and manuscripts pertaining to American whaling in the age of sail–the late 18th century to the early 20th century–when sailing ships dominated… click for more details

At Painting at Splash, you are the artist! Add some wine (BYOB) and you will surely tap into your creative side. With step-by-step instruction and a little music, you and your friends will create your very own masterpiece with a splash of your own uniqueness. NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! (Just a desire to have fun) click for more details

Discover your Bay at the Buzzards Bay Coalition’s Richard C. Wheeler Bay Learning Center, a free environmental exploration center located in downtown New Bedford’s Historic District. The Bay Learning Center is your destination to learn about our local waters and how you can protect and enjoy them. click for more details

New Bedford's annual Seaport Art Walk was founded in 2013 by local artist Jessica Bregoli and was the city's first large format outdoor public art installation. Each summer local artists install sculptures and murals, strategically placed along New Bedford's working waterfront and Seaport Cultural District.   click for more details

The Zeiterion Theater, the city's performing arts center, offers a full calendar of events and features a broad range of the highest caliber of national and international performing artists and programs set in a meticulously restored Vaudeville era theater. click for more details

One of the largest bowling alleys in southeastern Massachusetts, Wonder Bowl features 40 lanes, full-service snack bar & grill and 200+ feet of luncheon counter overlooking the lanes. click for more details

Buttonwood Park Zoo, the most visited attraction in Bristol County Buttonwood Park Zoo is your nature connection! Come visit one of the finest small zoos in the United States and encounter animals from home and around the world. Take a journey through the "Berkshires to the Sea" exhibits to meet black bears, mountain lions, river otters, bald eagles, and seals. Cross… click for more details

Located on the southern tip of the city in Fort Taber Park and operated by the Fort Taber-Fort Rodman Historical Association, Inc., the museum preserves and interprets New Bedford’s long and rich military history. Walk through the museum and you will see artifacts from every major American War, the evolution of Clark's Point to Fort Rodman, as well as photos… click for more details

Ready to embark on a whale of a good time? Discover this one-of-a-kind collection of sites, stories, and adventures curated by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism. The Massachusetts Whale Trail links nearly 40 museums, attractions, whale watching excursions, historic sites, and tours dedicated to our special connection with these beloved creatures of the deep. Explore locations in Southeastern… click for more details

This museum displays art and cultural artifacts from the Island of Madeira: a fascinating collection of art and fine crafts including embroidery, lace, linens, pottery and weaving. Traditional costumes of Folkloric dancers are on display along with an authentic ‘corca’ or sled used to transport visitors from the village of Monte high atop a hill outside of Funchal, the capital… click for more details

The Nathan and Polly Johnson House is a National Historic Landmark for its role as an Underground Railroad site and the first free home of Frederick Douglass. Nathan and Polly Johnson, African American entrepreneurs, were among the City's best known abolitionists in the 19th century. Constructed in 1800, the Johnson House has recently been restored to its 1857 splendor. Tours of… click for more details

New Bedford Art Museum is dedicated to engaging a diverse audience in relevant exhibitions, exemplary education, and creative experiences as a vital innovative center for the arts. Hours of Operation: Thursday-Sunday 9am-5pm. Closed Monday-Wednesday. Reservations are not required. Tickets may be purchased in person or online.  click for more details

The Museum REOPENS July 5th. Closed through winter each year on September 5th.* The New Bedford Fire Museum is a unique place dedicated to the presentation of the development of urban firefighting technology, equipment, and organizations. A preserved collection of antique equipment and memorabilia is on display at the Fire Museum at Old Station No.4 just outside the Historical District. Old… click for more details

Located in New Bedford, the nation's most valuable fishing port, the New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center is dedicated to preserving and presenting the story of the fishing industry past, present, and future through exhibits, programs, and archives. Check back for new exhibits and special events alongside permanent exhibits like, More than a Job: Work and Community in New Bedford’s Fishing… click for more details

Established in 1852, the New Bedford Free Public Library is among the earliest free municipal libraries in the United States. The core of the library’s original holdings contained books, periodicals and other materials purchased from the New Bedford Social Library (founded in 1807), which had assimilated the collections of the Encyclopedia Society, New Bedford Library Society, New Bedford Athenaeum and… click for more details

Celebrate the beauty and history of glass in this thriving New England seaport. The museum's growing collection includes art glass made in New Bedford by the famous Mt. Washington and Pairpoint factories, glass from the Midwest and other regions of the country, English and Continental glass, ancient glass, historical glass, Tiffany and Steuben, paperweights, studio glass and much more. Experience… click for more details

The New Bedford Whaling Museum is the largest museum in the United States devoted to the history of the American whaling industry and its greatest fishing port, New Bedford. It houses the most extensive collection of art, artifacts, and manuscripts pertaining to American whaling in the age of sail–the late 18th century to the early 20th century–when sailing ships dominated… click for more details

New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park was established by Congress in 1996 to tell the stories of whaling, the working waterfront, and the Underground Railroad. These stories are filled with people who are as fascinating as Melville’s fictional Captain Ahab who battled Moby-Dick; and include Frederick Douglass who found his freedom and his voice in New Bedford, Paul Cuffe, a sea captain and an entrepreneur… click for more details

The Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum is named for the three prominent families who resided at 396 County Street. The house and gardens chronicle 150 years (1834-1981) of economic and social life in the city, as reflected in the lives and stories of those who lived and worked at the property. The museum offers permanent and changing exhibits, lecture series… click for more details

National Historic Landmark and gift of the Republic of Cape Verde, Schooner Ernestina is the official vessel of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Launched in Essex in 1894 as the Effie M. Morrissey, she sailed as a Grand Banks fishing schooner, far-north Arctic explorer and trans-Atlantic Cape Verdean packet. Her homeport is New Bedford, ship's berth: New Bedford State Pier, Southwest… click for more details

The Seamen's Bethel, nestled in the historic port city of New Bedford, stands as a testament to the rich maritime heritage of the region. Established in 1822, this iconic chapel has served as a spiritual haven for generations of mariners. The nearby Mariner's Home, established in 1789, provided a welcome refuge for sailors returning from voyages. What is a Bethel? The term… click for more details

New Bedford's annual Seaport Art Walk was founded in 2013 by local artist Jessica Bregoli and was the city's first large format outdoor public art installation. Each summer local artists install sculptures and murals, strategically placed along New Bedford's working waterfront and Seaport Cultural District.   click for more details

Steeple Playhouse is a community arts center with Your Theatre, Inc. as its resident community theater group. A prominent downtown New Bedford landmark, the steeple appears on the city seal. Built in 1829 as the First Baptist Church, it came to be known as the "Birthplace of Robert's Rule of Order." Purchased in 2017, Your Theatre, Inc. worked with a… click for more details

Step into another time when you enter the Mariners' Home in New Bedford. The New Bedford Whaling Museum has curated four exhibitions on the first floor of the Mariners' Home that bring to life the era when the boarding house was bustling with maritime guests and tells the story of how the Mariners' Home came to be. Highlights of the… click for more details

The Zeiterion Theater, the city's performing arts center, offers a full calendar of events and features a broad range of the highest caliber of national and international performing artists and programs set in a meticulously restored Vaudeville era theater. click for more details

Your Theatre, Inc. is a community theater group that produces four to seven shows each season. Striving for the highest excellence, the group draws from the surrounding communities for the best talent, both on stage and off. click for more details

Founded in 1997, the Azorean Maritime Heritage Society promotes Azorean culture and shared whaling heritage by raising awareness and pride within New England's Azorean-American community. They maintain three authentic Azorean whaleboat—Pico, Faial, and Bela Vista—which are used for cultural, historical, and recreational events. Currently, there are only 63 Azorean whaleboats in the world: these are the only three in the… click for more details

Discover New Bedford and stay fit! The New Bedford Bike Committee bicycle tourism map has all the current bike lanes, and racks and the various attractions nearby in New Bedford. Check out the biking map! click for more details

This 85 acre park is a multi-use complex with baseball and softball fields, basketball and tennis courts, a skate park, playground, splash-pad, and nature trails.  In an effort to remove himself from the bustle of the city’s center, the prominent New Bedford Quaker, Daniel Ricketson built a country estate in what is now Brooklawn Park. Literary greats, such as Henry… click for more details

This 97 acre multi-use park was initially planned in the 1890’s by Charles Eliot of the famous landscape architectural firm of Olmstead, Olmstead and Eliot. Comprised of both active and passive recreation areas; with forest, fields and a large pond, it is also home to one of the finest small zoos in the country. Retaining its historic landscapes, the park… click for more details

Full service facility offering rock climbing, instruction and service for all levels and ages. click for more details

The Community Boating Center is a non-profit organization that provides people from the Greater New Bedford area with educational opportunities and access to the marine environment, regardless of means, through instruction, mentoring, and coaching. The Center’s office and youth sailing program are located at Fort Rodman and its high school sailing program is at Clark’s Cove. click for more details

New Bedford beaches are available to the general public.  Seasonal Lifeguards 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM Volley Ball Court – Restrooms – Outdoor Showers – Playground Parking passes are available at the Parks, Recreation & Beaches office at 181 Hillman St. Building 3 or the City Clerk's Office at 133 William St. click for more details

A 50-acre waterfront park providing over a mile of ocean frontage located on scenic Clark’s Point, which projects into Buzzards Bay.  The park incorporates historical landmarks, offers a variety of amenities and opportunities for both passive and active recreation. The centerpiece of the park is the historic Fort Rodman, built between 1857 and 1871 as part of the nation’s sea… click for more details

What is an Escape room? Escape the Room is a hands-on mental adventure game. Players are put in a "locked" room and have to use elements of the room to solve a series of puzzles to escape within a set time limit, or having completed a mission. It's a great activity for family, friends and corporate team building as everyone needs to… click for more details

New Bedford is home to the New Bedford Bay Sox which had its inaugural year in 2009. The New Bedford Bay Sox is one of twelve teams affiliated with the NECBL, one of the premiere collegiate baseball leagues in the country. NECBL players are heavily scouted by Major League Baseball teams. PLAY BALL! click for more details

The Port of New Bedford is a deep-water port with depths of 30 feet and features a hurricane barrier that makes the harbor one of the safest havens on the eastern seaboard. Services and amenities include: Eight marinas with state-of-the art services Transient dockage and moorings Launch service to New Bedford waterfront available Pump out facilities Shower, laundry and conference room facilities Dock side water and… click for more details

Located in the Acushnet River at the entrance to New Bedford Harbor, this 6-acre island is designated for walking and other passive recreational uses, such as bird watching. History of Palmer’s Island Pre-dating the Pilgrims’ arrival in Plymouth by 18 years, English explorer Bartholomew Gosnold first surveyed the 6-acre island during his exploration of New Bedford Harbor in 1602. The island was… click for more details

Are you planning to drop anchor in New Bedford and need an overnight berth? Contact the City of New Bedford's Pope's Island Marina click for more details

Hetland Rink is home of the New Bedford Whalers and offers programs that benefit both young and older skaters such as ice and figure skating lessons , hockey lessons and clinics as well as weekly public skating sessions. This rink is truly a community gathering place. click for more details

The Barre is New Bedford's first barre fitness studio. The Barre classes utilize movements that are inspired by ballet, yoga, and Pilates, set to fun and motivating music. The full body method activates one muscle group at a time with small, controlled movements, also known as isometric movements, which are very effective for burning fat and adding muscle tone. The class… click for more details

The Blue Lane is a cohesive designation for the city’s waterfront path from the CoveWalk and HarborWalk along the South End peninsula to the planned RiverWalk on the banks of the Acushnet River in the North End. Spanning the shoreline of the city as a signal to residents and tourists of a contiguous set of recreational pathways that allows travel… click for more details

Allen C. Haskell Public Gardens: With local community partners, The Trustees have transformed this former nursery into a vibrant park for the people of New Bedford and beyond. 6 acres of conservation land and gardens in New Bedford open to the public. The Trustees of Reservations preserves, for public use and enjoyment, properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value in… click for more details

New Bedford beaches are available to the general public.  Seasonal Lifeguards 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM Wheelchair Accessible – Restrooms – Outdoor Showers Parking passes are available at the Parks, Recreation & Beaches office at 181 Hillman St. Building 3 or the City Clerk's Office at 133 William St. click for more details

As New England Football League AA Champions in 2007-2008, the Whaling City Clippers are the Greater New Bedford area’s only semi-pro football team. The New England Football League is the nation’s largest and most successful semi-professional football league. The team is dedicated to representing the area in a positive manner, through cooperation, teamwork and a winning attitude. For more information… click for more details

Whaling City Golf Course is a 6,780-yard, 18-hole championship course designed by the legendary Donald Ross. An MGA and USGA member course, Whaling City also features a restaurant, pro shop and driving range. Tee times all year round. The public is welcome. Outing dates available. click for more details

This local rowing club is a non-profit organization dedicated to making open water rowing accessible to people of all ages and income levels. Club members row 28-foot long fiberglass whaleboats – replicas of nineteenth century whale boats. After school programs and summer day camps provide instruction to the region’s young people throughout the year. click for more details

One of the largest bowling alleys in southeastern Massachusetts, Wonder Bowl features 40 lanes, full-service snack bar & grill and 200+ feet of luncheon counter overlooking the lanes. click for more details

Established in 1852, the New Bedford Free Public Library is among the earliest free municipal libraries in the United States. The core of the library’s original holdings contained books, periodicals and other materials purchased from the New Bedford Social Library (founded in 1807), which had assimilated the collections of the Encyclopedia Society, New Bedford Library Society, New Bedford Athenaeum and… click for more details

Lighting the Way: Historic Women of SouthCoast explores the historical impact of women from the region. Learn the stories of educators, philanthropists, abolitionists, crusaders for social justice, investors, confectioners, sister sailors, mill workers, and others as you walk through downtown New Bedford. Lighting the Way encompasses a historical walking trail in downtown New Bedford with accompanying trail map and mobile… click for more details

Ready to embark on a whale of a good time? Discover this one-of-a-kind collection of sites, stories, and adventures curated by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism. The Massachusetts Whale Trail links nearly 40 museums, attractions, whale watching excursions, historic sites, and tours dedicated to our special connection with these beloved creatures of the deep. Explore locations in Southeastern… click for more details

New Bedford Food Tours' guided culinary tours will take guests on engaging journeys into the cultural and historical contexts of the Whaling City, a place that has always been inextricably tied to the sea. Sample a variety of local foods infused with New Bedford's diverse heritage, from Portuguese and Cape Verdean dishes to New England classics that blend culinary innovations… click for more details

Embark on a tour of the historic port of New Bedford, the nation's #1 Commercial Fishing Port! Board "The Acushnet" on Pier 3 and bask in the aromas of The Whale's Tail, Mirasol's Cafe Express, and The Black Whale- all excellent places to quench your thirst and satisfy your appetite before or after your tour. Sail the same waters as Herman… click for more details

The New Bedford Preservation Society has created mobile tours of the city's historic neighborhoods. These tours will give a sense of place by providing the context for the role of history and architecture in the city's growth and prosperity. Download the app builder PocketSights, search for 02740, and scroll down to "New Bedford Pathways." Then get to walking! The current tours… click for more details

Need to stretch your legs and catch some sunshine? #NBCreative is here to help with three self-guided public art walks in the North End’s Love the Ave and the Seaport Cultural District’s waterfront and downtown. New Bedford artists love to light the way into the future. In return, they ask that you practice social distance guidelines as you self-guide your… click for more details

The Blue Lane is a cohesive designation for the city’s waterfront path from the CoveWalk and HarborWalk along the South End peninsula to the planned RiverWalk on the banks of the Acushnet River in the North End. Spanning the shoreline of the city as a signal to residents and tourists of a contiguous set of recreational pathways that allows travel… click for more details

Weekends starting June 16; every day during July through September. Find out why New Bedford was the 19th Century’s world capitol of industrial whaling. What caused the decline of this source of oil energy? What can we learn from the earliest globalized energy industry and the women and men who toiled on the sea and land? Join a park ranger… click for more details

Alison Wells is a Trinidadian artist whose paintings have been exhibited in solo and group exhibitions in galleries and museums in the United States, the Caribbean and Europe. Some of these include D’art Contemporaine in Pont Aven, France, the National Museum of Trinidad and Tobago in Port of Spain, Trinidad; The New Bedford Art Museum and New Bedford Whaling Museum… click for more details

The Drawing Room is a carefully curated product & design shop featuring handcrafted, original work by New England artisans. Our focus is on quality craftsmanship whether you are looking for wearable art – or a statement piece to hang on your wall. The Drawing Room is a place to find creative inspiration – plus the materials you need to… click for more details

A non-collecting 21st century museum focusing on exhibitions, educational programming, and public outreach, DATMA presents international exhibitions and programs that demonstrate the impact of new technologies in art and design, contributing to educational, economic, and cultural life in the South Coast Region and beyond. click for more details

Gallery X is a contemporary, cooperative art gallery of visual, performing and literary artist members that promotes cultural outreach through community partnerships, educational programs, and monthly exhibits. click for more details

The gallery features a collection of fine art and high-end crafts from South Coast artists. click for more details

Christine Maiato FitzGerald is a New Bedford native, and has exhibited her photography and paintings in several group and solo shows in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. MaiatoFitz Art also features unique, high-end gifts created by local artisans. click for more details

New Bedford Art Museum is dedicated to engaging a diverse audience in relevant exhibitions, exemplary education, and creative experiences as a vital innovative center for the arts. Hours of Operation: Thursday-Sunday 9am-5pm. Closed Monday-Wednesday. Reservations are not required. Tickets may be purchased in person or online.  click for more details

New Bedford Ballet presents dance performances and high level dance training for the people of southeastern Massachusetts. click for more details

Check out the New Bedford Creative website for more information on our cultural districts, wicked cool places, creative directory, calendar of events & more. click for more details

Founded in 1915, the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra (NBSO) is one of the oldest regional orchestras in the United States. Led by Dr. David MacKenzie, whose 30-year career spans the worlds of symphonic music, opera and musical theater, the NBSO is a fully professional orchestra performing the full range of the world’s great classical and new music repertoire. click for more details

At Painting at Splash, you are the artist! Add some wine (BYOB) and you will surely tap into your creative side. With step-by-step instruction and a little music, you and your friends will create your very own masterpiece with a splash of your own uniqueness. NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! (Just a desire to have fun) click for more details

After 9 years working in the Harrison Ave Studios in Boston’s S.O.W.A Art District, Paradise Mcfee moved his gallery and studio to New Bedford’s historic downtown.   click for more details

New Bedford's annual Seaport Art Walk was founded in 2013 by local artist Jessica Bregoli and was the city's first large format outdoor public art installation. Each summer local artists install sculptures and murals, strategically placed along New Bedford's working waterfront and Seaport Cultural District.   click for more details

Steeple Playhouse is a community arts center with Your Theatre, Inc. as its resident community theater group. A prominent downtown New Bedford landmark, the steeple appears on the city seal. Built in 1829 as the First Baptist Church, it came to be known as the "Birthplace of Robert's Rule of Order." Purchased in 2017, Your Theatre, Inc. worked with a… click for more details

The University Art Gallery features exhibition of local, national and international art. Catalogs, lectures and other educational programming are provided in connection with each exhibition. click for more details

The Zeiterion Theater, the city's performing arts center, offers a full calendar of events and features a broad range of the highest caliber of national and international performing artists and programs set in a meticulously restored Vaudeville era theater. click for more details

TL6 The Gallery is a one-of-a-kind shop, specializing in handmade, unique and custom designs. The artists exhibiting at TL6 are local and regional artists making everything from jewelry and pottery, to handmade t-shirts and knits, to fine art paintings and photography.   click for more details

Your Theatre, Inc. is a community theater group that produces four to seven shows each season. Striving for the highest excellence, the group draws from the surrounding communities for the best talent, both on stage and off. click for more details

Cork Wine and Tapas is New Bedford’s most unique & boutique event space. Located in Historic Downtown, your guests will enjoy an intimate and fun atmosphere. Whether it’s a birthday party, bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, after party, or a business meeting, you're guaranteed to have a great experience! With features such as an in room fireplace, private bar and restrooms… click for more details

Cotali Mar Restaurante offers a contemporary menu with international influences, a fine selection of fresh seafood, steak, pasta, and many specialty entrées. The sophisticated Grande Ballroom accommodates up to 250 guests with a private relaxing bridal suite.The old world Wine Cellar is a unique venue for a celebration of up to 100 guests. The stunning Courtyard features a marble fountain… click for more details

A 50-acre waterfront park that provides over a mile of ocean frontage located on the southern peninsula of the city which projects into Buzzards Bay. The park incorporates historical landmarks such as Fort Taber and offers many amenities. The Community Center is available for receptions. Capacity: 205 people (standing), 120 people (sitting. click for more details

Inner Bay Cafe & Grille, along New Bedford's seashore, serves authentic Portuguese cuisine from Portugal and features a full service function room, for up to 80 people, and bar area. The front door opens onto a bar area, filled with small cafe tables; a staircase leads upstairs to a second-floor lounge area and neatly separates the bar area from the… click for more details

You deserve an officiant who will help make your ceremony unforgettable. Steve, a lifelong resident of New Bedford, is the son of Portuguese immigrants who relocated to the United States from Lisbon, Portugal. He was appointed by the Governor of Massachusetts to serve as a Justice of the Peace. You can read more about Steve by visiting https://bristolcountyjp.com/ click for more details

Located on the shore of Clarks Cove in New Bedford, welcome to the historic Kilburn Mill. Home to a diverse array of tenants, from an Antique Mall to maritime business suppliers and creative space, Kilburn Mill is the perfect location for your business and storage needs. Conveniently located off major highways and close to downtown New Bedford, Kilburn boasts easy… click for more details

Private event space Available at the newly-renovated Merrill’s on the Waterfront, enjoy a casual atmosphere with spectacular views of New Bedford’s Harbor and fishing fleet. The menu also includes high quality meat and poultry dishes, as well as nightly specials. click for more details

New Bedford’s newest Hotel and venue offers versatile event space in the heart of downtown New Bedford, Massachusetts.  Natural light from the large scale windows and open concept, stylish pre-function spaces help to welcome your guests in a comfortable setting. Let us help you celebrate the next milestone in your life! From weddings, rehearsals dinners to bridal showers, baby showers, engagements… click for more details

Distinctive, Unforgettable Events Depart from traditional venues and give your guests an experience they’ll never forget at the New Bedford Whaling Museum. Nestled among 18th and 19th century homes and cobblestone streets, with unparalleled harbor views, the Museum is a distinctive venue for intimate gatherings, weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate events, conferences and large celebrations. Your guests will enjoy beautiful galleries, event… click for more details

Greek Revival in style and built by shipwrights in 1834 for whaling merchant William Rotch Jr., the Rotch-Jones-Duff (RJD) House and Garden Museum epitomizes the “brave houses and flowery gardens” described by Herman Melville in Moby-Dick. The property encompasses a full city block of gardens which include a boxwood parterre rose garden, a boxwood specimen garden, a woodland garden and… click for more details

In 1830, The Port Society started offering church services at Seamen’s Bethel to whale men before they shipped out on whaling voyages. This historic church, with a unique pulpit representing the front of a ship, was immortalized in the novel “Moby Dick” by Herman Melville. If you love history, this would be an ideal place for a wedding ceremony. Contact… click for more details

The United Fishermen Club is one of the area’s best kept secret’s when it comes to both authentic Portuguese and Portuguese-American cuisine. In addition, they offer a wide variety of Greek, Mediterranean and Seafood selections to choose from. The UFC also has a brightly lit and tastefully appointed bar and function room, with 700 person capacity, appropriate for a party… click for more details

The Wamsutta Club, one of New Bedford’s landmarks (built in 1821), offers a warm ambiance complemented by fireplaces and spectacular chandeliers making your wedding private, comfortable and elegant. There are many function rooms to choose from whether you have 50 guests or 300 guests. Capacity: 300 people. click for more details

Situated in a refurbished whaling-era building, the Waypoint Event Center is the perfect blend of old and new, with 3,000 square feet of function space for full service meetings, social events, and weddings. The elegant SeaLoft boasts cathedral ceilings with a rustic flair. The outdoor patio and fountain or indoor Vineyard room are great for cocktails, meeting spaces, and wedding… click for more details