City of New Bedford


The New Bedford area is one of the superlatives - tastiest seafood, the best waterways, and the friendliest people. The quality of life as well as the variety of cultural, economic, geographic and educational advantages provides a progressive atmosphere, rich in heritage and opportunity. New Bedford's proximity to metropolitan areas makes it one of the most desirable places in which to live, work and play. New Bedford is one hour from Boston; half an hour from Providence and Newport, Rhode Island; an hour from Cape Cod; and a departure point for passenger ferry service to Martha's Vineyard and Cuttyhunk.

New Bedford, the "Whaling City," best known as the 19th century Whaling Capital of the World, is home to the largest museum in the United States devoted to American Whaling and was given Whaling National Historic Park status. The days of "Black gold" are recalled at the Whaling Museum in the heart of the city's cobblestone historical district where Herman Melville immortalized the Seaman's Bethel in his novel, Moby Dick. Visitors can sit in Melville's pew where he gathered inspiration for his novel.

The Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum is another testament to New Bedford's rich history. Built in 1834, this whaling merchant's mansion is a superb example of 19th century Greek Revival architecture. The house and formal gardens are the best example of the "brave houses and flowery gardens" described by Herman Melville in Moby Dick. The Zeiterion Theatre is New Bedford's very own performing arts center. New Bedford also has many factory and off-price outlets, as well as a full calendar of festivals and fairs. Two visitor centers are open to the public year-round.

Neighbors to the east and west are the towns of Fairhaven and Dartmouth. Fairhaven's center is filled with impressive architecture, its waterfront still busy. Dartmouth rambles from shady street to salt marshes to conservation land to Padanaram harbor. Both towns are worth a visit.