Zoo
Buttonwood Park Zoo
Animals, a big park and a solid excuse to get the kids out of the car.
See & Do go look at something
Whale bones, a chapel out of Moby-Dick, a fort, a lighthouse and a zoo. Plenty to justify the drive, even from Boston.
Park & fort
Fort Taber Park
A fort, a waterfront path and the best seat in town when the sun goes down.
Landmark
New Bedford Hurricane Barrier
A giant wall that keeps the ocean out. Show some respect.
Museum
New Bedford Whaling Museum
Actual whale skeletons, hanging from the ceiling. Look up.
National park
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
A national park with cobblestones instead of trees. Wear real shoes.
Lighthouse
Palmer Island Lighthouse
The little lighthouse on every postcard, ours included. Admire it from the barrier.
Historic chapel
Seamen's Bethel
The chapel from Moby-Dick. Yes, that one. Behave.
Waterfront
State Pier
Boats, gulls and a working harbor doing its thing. Stay out of the way.
Theatre
The Zeiterion
Shows, concerts and the one night a year you'll actually dress up.