New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
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New Bedford Whaling at a glance
- Best time
- April–May, September–October
- Trip length
- 1–2 days
- Don't miss
- Nathan & Polly Johnson Virtual Tour
- Nearby city
- New Bedford, MA
Explore this park
About New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
"The town itself is perhaps the dearest place to live in, in all New England..nowhere in all America will you find more patrician-like houses, parks and gardens more opulent, than in New Bedford…all these brave houses and flowery gardens came from the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans. One and all, they were harpooned and dragged up hither from the bottom of the sea." H. Melville, "Moby-Dick"
Weather Information
In New Bedford, Massachusetts, you’ll experience all four seasons in their full glory!
- Summer
are warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 56°F to 83°F, perfect for enjoying the coastal breeze.
- Winter
are chilly, with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 45°F, occasionally bringing snow to the scenic city.
As the year turns, fall brings crisp, cool weather, with temperatures between 30°F and 70°F, offering the ideal backdrop for stunning autumn foliage. By spring, the weather begins to warm up again
Operating Hours
Welcome to New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park! The Visitor Center and Garden provide a distinctive urban park experience. Operating hours vary seasonally and may differ from those of our local partners/businesses within the park boundary and throughout the city. Please refer to the Visitor Center hours listed below for access and note that park grounds remain open year-round. Holiday Closures: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
- MondaySunrise to Sunset
- TuesdaySunrise to Sunset
- WednesdaySunrise to Sunset
- ThursdaySunrise to Sunset
- FridaySunrise to Sunset
- SaturdaySunrise to Sunset
- SundaySunrise to Sunset
Common questions
Planning New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
The summary above covers timing and highlights. These go deeper on reservations, crowds, and logistics.
Reservation rules vary by season and activity for New Bedford Whaling. Check the Permits tab on this page and Recreation.gov before you travel — campground, tour, or backcountry permits may apply even without park-wide timed entry.
See Permits tab →
