New Bedford is a small city on the South Coast of Massachusetts, known for its fishing industry and Portuguese Heritage. Much of the historic downtown has been turned into a National Historical Park with the New Bedford Whaling Museum as the focal point. This cobblestoned neighborhood consists of an array of buildings with historic and cultural significance, such as the Seamen’s Bethel and the Fishing Heritage Center. We’ll also venture out of the historic area to visit the zoo, the art museum, and a few places to grab a drink and a bite.
New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center
As Executive Director, Laura Orleans says the Fishing Heritage Center is “much more than a museum.” The center is located in the historic area of New Bedford and features many interactive displays where guests can immerse themselves in the culture of New Bedford’s fishing heritage. Listen to interviews with folks from the fishing industry. Kids will enjoy trying on the gear. Check out the technology that was used on boats of yore. There is also a rotating exhibit located toward the back of the center.
Walking Tour of Historic New Bedford
The “more” part of the museum aspect of the heritage center includes a series of events. The waterfront walking tour is highly recommended. Led by local guide, fishing industry veteran, and photographer Phil Mello, this tour begins at the working New Bedford waterfront where we could see working scallop boats prepare for their journey. The ability to go behind the scenes of this industry was fascinating; Mello is a vibrant storyteller with immense knowledge. Check out the boats in this working harbor: scallop boats (scallops are a prime catch for New Bedford) and draggers. Draggers, otherwise known as trawlers, use nets to round up their catch. Financially, New Bedford is the most successful commercial fishing port in the nation.
After learning about the boats and the fishing trips at sea, the tour continued through New Bedford’s history. Mello described the life of a fisherman, where they headed out for provisions, enjoyed libations, and sought redemption on Sunday mornings. This history tour overlapped with the story of Herman Melville as we were able to venture inside the Seamen’s Bethel, made famous in Melville’s Moby Dick. Inside, notice the pulpit that was added for the movie Moby Dick starring Gregory Peck. The house of worship is non-denominational. As sailors would lose all of their money in nearby houses of ill repute, the Bethel was built to atone and help.
Buttonwood Park Zoo
Our afternoon in New Bedford continues with a visit to Buttonwood Park Zoo. It’s a small zoo but is perfect for little legs. Animals here include seals, a lynx, monkeys, and bears. The elephants are among the highlights of this zoo. It also has a farmyard where kids can get up close and personal with animals.
Cisco Brewers Kitchen
For lunch and a brew with a view check out Cisco Brewers Kitchen. Located along the water on the southeastern side of town, it serves Cisco namesake beer. It also features an array of cocktails with plenty of seafood and sushi on the menu. In the warm weather, enjoy a drink outside while watching the boats enter and leave the harbor.
New Bedford Whaling Museum
One of the star attractions of New Bedford is the New Bedford Whaling Museum. It’s a must-visit for your afternoon in New Bedford. Upon entering the museum, an awe-inspiring whale skeleton hangs overhead. On the first weekend in January, the museum plays host to the annual Moby Dick Marathon where Moby Dick is read for 25 hours straight by various readers. The museum is transformed inviting throngs of patrons into its walls to hear it read aloud. It’s a totally unique experience that brings the city to life during a dreary time of year. The museum is worth checking out at any point though. With a room of scrimshaw, artifacts dedicated to the history of whaling, and a full-scale replica of the whaler, Ernestina, the exhibits will entertain all ages.
Moby Dick Brewing Company
Another good option for food and drink in New Bedford is Moby Dick Brewing Company. It’s a brewpub that serves its own beer. All beverage selections are solid and so is the food. It’s comfort pub food; think fish and chips, sandwiches, and burgers. Located just across the street from the museum, it’s an easy stop for the whole family.
New Bedford Art Museum
Our next destination for our afternoon in New Bedford is the New Bedford Art Museum. Housed in a former bank, the art museum is located just outside the historic district. The museum features rotating exhibits. From traditional pieces to modern and contemporary work, the art museum is always a great stop while in the city.
Ground Floor Coffee
For the perfect way to cap off your afternoon in New Bedford, check out Ground Floor Coffee which is located on the waterfront. Enjoy a superbly crafted coffee and pastry after exploring all that the city has to offer.
As our afternoon in New Bedford comes to an end, we’ve been able to fill a full day in the port city. From its fishing heritage and history to craft beer and contemporary art, there’s plenty to do in the Whaling City.
Check out this excellent video from the Fishing Heritage Center!
