Vintage Towns and Adventurous Escapade: 5-Day Itinerary in New Bedford

• Day 1: Visit Historic New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
  10 minutes (1.3 miles) from the New Bedford Regional Airport

  Begin your adventure in New Bedford by visiting the Historic New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, a museum featuring numerous exhibits that highlight the city's past as the world's top whaling port. You can also take a guided walking tour of the museum's whaling-era buildings.

• Day 2: Kayak at Clark's Cove
  7 minutes (2.5 miles) from the Historic New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park

  Take an unforgettable kayaking adventure at Clark's Cove. Paddle along the cove's serene waters to see the stunning scenery and majestic marine wildlife. Botanical gardens nearby offer a perfect opportunity for a serene picnic.

• Day 3: Wander around the Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum
  9 minutes (2.6 miles) from Clark's Cove

  Travel back in time to the 19th century and explore the Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum. Admire the restored interiors, furniture and art that reflect the era's social and intellectual environment. Delight in the Museum's delicious refreshments available in the Museum's Tea Room.

• Day 4: Hike the Freetown-Fall River State Forest and Watuppa Reservation
  19 minutes (11.1 miles) from the Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum

  For a spectacular view of the city’s charming landscapes, head to Freetown-Fall River State Forest and Watuppa Reservation. The park features numerous trails for adventurous hikers of all skill levels. The park harbors numerous hills and lakes offering a serene atmosphere.

• Day 5: Get a bird's eye view of New Bedford at Fort Phoenix State Reservation
  18 minutes (7.4 miles) from Freetown-Fall River State Forest and Watuppa Reservation

  Capture a breathtaking view of the city's scenic coast at Fort Phoenix State Reservation. This stunning locale features panoramic views and picturesque picnic spots, providing a perfect spot for the last day of an unforgettable adventure in New Bedford.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Historic New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park (2 hours, free)
• Clark's Cove Kayak Rental (3 hours, $35 per person)
• Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum (2 hours, $8 Admission)
• Freetown-Fall River State Forest and Watuppa Reservation (4 hours, free)
• Fort Phoenix State Reservation (2 hours, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: $43 per person

Transportation

Travelers will find that renting a car or taking a taxi are the most convenient ways to get around New Bedford. However, the city also features an extensive bus network that connects major tourist attractions. Taxis typically cost $2.50 per mile and rental cars, like at Enterprise, begin at $45 per day.

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Whaling Museum and the Buttonwood Park Zoo. If you have less time, prioritize your itinerary to include the Historic New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park and the Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum.

Airports

New Bedford Regional Airport is located just a few miles from the city center. The airport code is EWB and offers daily flights to and from several major US cities.