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New Bedford Self Guided Audio Walking Tour of Whaling History 1
New Bedford Self Guided Audio Walking Tour of Whaling History 2
New Bedford Self Guided Audio Walking Tour of Whaling History 3
New Bedford Self Guided Audio Walking Tour of Whaling History 4
New Bedford Self Guided Audio Walking Tour of Whaling History 5
By Drives & Detours
Free cancellation available
Price is NZ$17 per adult

Features

  • Free cancellation available
  • 2h 30m
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation
  • Multiple languages

Overview

  • Walk the cobblestone streets of New Bedford with a self-guided audio tour that plays automatically on your app. Moving between the historic city centre and working waterfront, you will use your GPS to trace the history of a city shaped by ambition, labour, and the sea.
    Along the way, pass landmarks like the Whaling Museum, Seamen’s Bethel, Mariners’ Home, and Custom House. You will uncover deep history, from Wampanoag coastal knowledge and whale oil fortunes to the abolitionist networks that sheltered Frederick Douglass.
    Explore at your own pace—pause to take in views towards the harbour or linger along the historic blocks. The audio resumes whenever you are ready, allowing you to move freely without keeping up with a group.
    This is a self-guided experience (no in-person guide). Download the tour in advance and use it anytime—it works offline and follows your location along the route.

Activity location

  • The Seamen's Bethel
    • 15 Johnny Cake Hl
    • 02740, New Bedford, Massachusetts, United States

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park Visitor Center
    • 33 William Street
    • 02740, New Bedford, Massachusetts, United States

Check availability

New Bedford Self Guided Audio Walking Tour of Whaling History in Multilingual

  • Activity duration is 2 hours and 30 minutes2h 30m
    2h 30m
  • Opening hours: Mon 8:00 am-8:00 pm
  • English
Price details
NZ$16.71 x 1 AdultNZ$16.71
Total
Price is NZ$16.71

What's included, what's not

  • Inclusions
    Flexible Usage (unlimited access)
  • Inclusions
    Audio Guide
  • Inclusions
    App and Tour Download
  • Exclusions
    Smartphone (bring your own)

Know before you book

    • Public transport options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Works entirely offline once downloaded—no cell service required
    • GPS-triggered audio plays automatically based on your location
    • Flexible - Buy once, use any day/time—access never expires
    • Get the Drives & Detours app download the tour ahead of time

Activity itinerary

New Bedford Whaling Museum (Pass by)

Home to the world’s largest model ship and massive whale skeletons, this museum vividly brings the grueling era of global whaling to life. Walk through immersive exhibits that inspired Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick and shaped America's historic maritime identity.

The Seamen's Bethel

  • 5m
Immortalised as the Whaleman's Chapel in Herman Melville's Moby-Dick, this historic 1832 sanctuary offered comfort to sailors before long, perilous voyages. Step inside to see the poignant memorial cenotaphs lining the walls and a unique pulpit built like the bow of a ship.

New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park Visitor Center

  • 5m
Housed inside a grand 1853 Greek Revival bank building, this visitor centre serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the historic port city. Pick up maps, watch an engaging orientation film, and get expert tips on navigating the historic cobblestone streets.

Nathan and Polly Johnson House

  • 5m
This crucial stop on the Underground Railway served as the first home in freedom for famed abolitionist Frederick Douglass in 1838. Learn how the courageous Johnson family provided safe harbour to freedom seekers in a community deeply committed to abolitionism.

New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center

  • 5m
Discover the stories, gear, and grit behind America's most lucrative commercial fishing port through interactive exhibits and authentic local lore. This dynamic space bridges the gap between historic whaling traditions and the modern life of local seafaring workers.

Johnny Cake Hill

  • 5m
Stroll up this iconic cobblestone incline, which served as the cultural and spiritual heart of New Bedford's historic maritime district. Framed by landmark buildings, it offers an evocative atmosphere that transports visitors straight back into the 19th century.

Custom House Square

  • 5m
Once a bustling harbour car park, this charming urban park is now a beautifully landscaped plaza surrounded by historic architecture. It offers a scenic spot to pause, admire surrounding granite landmarks, and watch local harbour life unfold.

Mariners Home

  • 5m
Originally built in 1787 for whale oil merchant William Rotch Jr., this grand wooden structure was later transformed into a welcoming haven for weary seamen. Positioned at the top of Johnny Cake Hill, it reflects the town’s long history of supporting its mariners ashore.

New Bedford Free Public Library

  • 5m
Housed in a majestic Greek Revival building, this institution is proud to be one of the earliest free public libraries established in the United States. Inside, visitors can discover rare maritime archives, historic art collections, and grand architectural details.

Seastreak Ferry Terminal New Bedford

  • 5m
Experience the bustling energy of an active commercial waterfront where fishing trawlers, cargo vessels, and passenger ferries tie up daily. It offers sweeping views across New Bedford Harbour towards the historic Hurricane Barrier and neighbouring Fairhaven.

New Bedford City Hall

  • 5m
Built following a devastating fire in 1906, this impressive municipal building features striking classical architecture and a commanding presence on William Street. It serves as a testament to the city’s early 20th-century civic pride and resilience.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    The Seamen's Bethel
    • 15 Johnny Cake Hl
    • 02740, New Bedford, Massachusetts, United States

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park Visitor Center
    • 33 William Street
    • 02740, New Bedford, Massachusetts, United States

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