Overview
The New Bedford Whaling Museum is a maritime museum that showcases the history of whaling and the City of New Bedford's role in the whaling industry. It features a variety of exhibits, including the world's largest ship model, the Lagoda.
The museum is significant for its extensive collection of artifacts related to the whaling industry and its role in preserving the history of New Bedford, a major whaling port in the 19th century.
Location
Address
18 Johnny Cake Hill, New Bedford, Massachusetts
Neighborhood: Downtown
Coordinates
41.636200, -70.934500
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild to warm
- • Whaling History Symposium
- • Spring Garden Tours
summer
Warm to hot
- • Extended hours
- • Outdoor concerts
autumn
Cool to mild
- • Harvest Market
- • Fall Foliage Tours
winter
Cold
- • Holiday lights
- • Winter Whaling History Talks
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets online in advance
- Bring valid ID
- Check weather forecast and dress accordingly
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate, some walking and climbing stairs
- • Some exhibits may have dim lighting
- • Uneven surfaces in some areas
Medical facilities: First aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
Credit cards, Debit cards, Cash
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual and comfortable, Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, Closed-toe shoes recommended for some exhibits, Inappropriate or offensive clothing, Beachwear
Booking Tips
- • At least 1-2 weeks in advance for peak season
- • Official website or authorized ticket vendors
- • 48 hours in advance for full refund
- • Available for online tickets and museum members
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
New Bedford Whaling Museum
Size: 45 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guides, Ticket booking, Event calendar, Exhibit information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Café, Public spaces
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Café
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: T.F. Green Airport, Providence
Distance: 50 miles
Travel Time: 1 hour
From City Center
Distance: 0.5 miles
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: The museum is a source of pride for the community, showcasing the city's rich maritime history and cultural heritage
Historical Significance: New Bedford was once the whaling capital of the world, and the museum preserves this important history
Insider Tips
- Visit the museum's café for a relaxing break
- Check the museum's website for special events and exhibitions
- Combine your visit with a whale watch tour for a comprehensive maritime experience
Local Recommendations
- • Try the local seafood at nearby restaurants
- • Visit the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
- • Explore the historic district and its architecture
- • Ask staff for personalized recommendations
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, Portuguese
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance with the Lagoda ship model
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
Tips: Capture the full grandeur of the ship model
Result: Breathtaking shots of the historic ship
The Grand Panorama of a Whaling Voyage
Best Time: Daytime with natural light
Tips: Focus on the details of the panorama
Result: Unique and historic photographs
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
Distance: 0.3 miles
Walking: 5 minutes
Type: National Park
Seamen's Bethel
Distance: 0.2 miles
Walking: 3 minutes
Type: Historic Landmark
New Bedford Harbor
Distance: 0.5 miles
Walking: 10 minutes
Type: Scenic Viewpoint
Buttonwood Park
Distance: 1 mile
Walking: 20 minutes
Type: Park
New Bedford Art Museum
Distance: 0.4 miles
Walking: 7 minutes
Type: Art Museum
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book tickets online to skip the line"
- "Visit early for a less crowded experience"
- "Don't miss the Lagoda ship model"
- "Combine with a whale watch tour"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
2
Rating
4.6 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
$20