New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park Visitor Center Points Of Interest

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Last Updated: December 7, 2025

The New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park Visitor Center is a must-visit point of interest in Massachusetts for those interested in learning about the history of whaling in America.


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Summary

The center is located in the heart of New Bedford, a historic whaling city, and offers visitors a wide range of exhibits and interactive displays.

One of the main attractions at the Visitor Center is the "Whale Hunt" exhibit, which allows visitors to experience what it was like to be part of a whaling crew during the 19th century. The exhibit features a life-sized replica of a whale boat, as well as interactive displays that simulate the harpooning and processing of a whale.

Another popular exhibit at the Visitor Center is "The Hunt for Moby-Dick," which tells the story of the famous whale and the impact it had on American culture. The exhibit features rare artifacts, including a first edition of Herman Melville's classic novel.

Visitors can also explore the center's collection of historic buildings, which includes the Seamen's Bethel, a historic chapel that was featured in Melville's novel, and the Mariners' Home, a boarding house that was once home to whaling crews.

Other highlights of the Visitor Center include a film about the history of whaling in New Bedford, a museum store where visitors can purchase souvenirs and books, and guided tours of the city's historic whaling district.

Overall, the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park Visitor Center is a unique and educational destination that offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into America's whaling history. So, it is a good reason to visit if someone wants to learn about the history of whaling in America.

       

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