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Get Your Culture On In New Bedford, MA
May 7, 2025
As Massachusetts commemorates 250 years of revolutionary moments, there’s no better time to visit New Bedford. Once known as the “city that lit the world” for its dominance in the whaling industry, New Bedford continues to shine as a must-visit destination filled with history, art, cultural festivals and events, and a diverse culinary scene.
Historical Charm
New Bedford is a city known for its historical charm, picturesque views, and cultural diversity. In the 19th century, the city was a safe haven for freedom seekers on the Underground Railroad, with abolitionist Frederick Douglass making it his first home as a free man. Today, visitors can explore landmarks that played a crucial role in the fight for freedom along New
Bedford’s Black History Trail.
At the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, walk along cobblestone streets, historic 19th-century buildings, and engaging exhibits at the New Bedford Whaling Museum. In the city’s south end, visitors can enjoy the salty sea air at Fort Taber Park. This public park has a playground, a walking path around a Civil War-era fort, and the Fort Taber-Fort Rodman Military Museum and Veterans Memorial.
For those eager to experience maritime history firsthand, join a tour of the working waterfront led by the Fishing Heritage Center, dedicated to sharing the stories of New Bedford’s fishing industry. For a unique on-the-water experience, climb aboard the Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey for a sunset sail. This National Historic Landmark, gifted to the city by Cabo Verde, has served as a fishing vessel, an Arctic exploration ship, and even a transatlantic immigrant transport.
Taste the Tradition
As the number-one fishing port in the nation, visitors can enjoy a robust “boat-to-table” dining scene that celebrates the freshest seafood available, with local favorites such as New Bedford scallops, stuffed quahogs, and cod.
At The Black Whale, visitors can enjoy fine dining and fresh seafood overlooking the working waterfront. The city offers a surprising array of international flavors in family-owned restaurants. For a truly local experience, join New Bedford Food Tours to explore the restaurants on Acushnet Avenue, known as “The Ave,” serving dishes from Guatemala, Mexico, Honduras, and more. The whaling era brought cultures from fishing communities around the world including Portugal and Cape Verde. Visitors can enjoy several Portuguese and Cape Verdean restaurants and festivals.
Celebrate Art and Culture
Find art on every corner, from murals and monuments, outdoor installations, museums, and galleries to live music, theater, and the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra. The New Bedford Art Museum curates exhibitions that celebrate regional and global talent and has a stunning Chihuly Chandelier in their permanent collection. The New Bedford Public Library has a museum-quality gallery that houses the city’s historic art collection including pieces from Albert Bierstadt, William Bradford, Robert Swain Gifford and more.
The Feast of the Blessed Sacrament, the largest Portuguese feast in the world, has filled the streets with music, dancing, and Portuguese cuisine every August for over 100 years. Other events include the annual Pride Block Party in June, the Cape Verdean Recognition Parade in July, and the Guatemalan Festival in August.
Explore New Bedford
New Bedford has always been a city of visionaries. It is a city that embraces its past while looking toward an exciting future. As Massachusetts marks 250 years of revolutionary moments, there’s no better time to explore New Bedford’s visionary voices and moments that make it an unforgettable destination.