new bedford whaling museum

Able to browse at a leisure pace. Lots of educational items for kid and adults alike. Should allow at least a couple of hours to do justice with exhibits. The overhead hanging of whale skeletons are a sight to see, and remember!

While visiting Boston, we decided to go to New Bedford to see the museum. It gives a thorough look at the industry and culture that surrounded whaling. One of the large whale skeletons hanging in the main entryway is still secreting oil. There is something for everyone, including a room full of models, visual artwork, a video of Portugese whalers from the mid-1900s, a ship model to climb on, and an elevator to a roof balcony to look over charming New Bedford.

Thoroughly enjoyed the trip. Not only great history of whaling, but an unexpectedly broad history of the region, galleries, and ship/naval history.Larger than expected and undergoing an expansion.Excellent school/educational activities witnessed.Went with 2 families and 4 kids under 14y.o.

The NB Whaling Museum is such a fun and educational place. The kids will love to see how Whale Oil was made and used in New England. You are also close to Seamen's Bethel which is a must see for family. Cobblestone streets will lead you to the Waterfront and many restaurants.

Whaling helped the city evolve into one of the most prosperous in America and this gem of a museum transports the visitor through it's humble beginnings, financial ascendancy and eventual return to economic earth because of the decreased demand for whale oil. The signature of Herman Melville on a ship's log, priceless paintings from the period, scrimshaw and perhaps the centerpiece of the exhibits - an 89 foot, half-scale model of the bark Lagoda (largest ship model in the world) - are just a few of the captivating sights within it's walls. To know and understand New Bedford, this temple is a must-see.

Located in the heart of "old" New Bedford, the Whaling Museum is packed with fascinating collections, generally well-laid out with lots of information. There were a few places where things seemed a bit jumbled as if they needed someone to rearrange things or put them back in order, but otherwise it was very nicely done. Our first stop was the Wattles’ Family art galley and this is not to be missed: this room is not so much about whaling or whales but nevertheless contains some powerful artwork by New Bedford artists.The main exhibitions are on the upper level and there’s plenty to see. The “model” ship designed mainly for kids is lots of fun for adults as well and is the centerpiece in it’s own galley, laid out like an old library with upper levels on either side. There’s also a very well-done, and informative gallery covering the impact the outrageous and Cape Verdeans have had on whaling, particularly out of New Bedford. Lastly, the whale skeletons are simply overwhelming; and the scrimshaw room is incredible. There is also an observation deck that gives out onto the harbor — a great place to stop and sit as well, weather permitting. Speaking of sitting, there are plenty of places to sit and relaxThe tour takes about 1-2 hours and there is an admission fee. Parking is on the street or in the nearby public garage.

The history of whaling comes alive with a 1/2 scale model of a whaling ship,art, photos and memorabilia from whalers, and a retrospective view of the importance and impacts of the whaling industry. Yes, protection and preservation are represented as well.You'll see scale models of whales, boats, equipment and learn the stories of the people who held this challenging profession. Did you know that many runaway slaves worked on whale ships to escape their potential captors.....now you do! Learn more at the museum.The beautiful museum was funded by the family of whale ship owners, so the bent is on the importance of this activity during its heyday. You'll learn about the international whaling industry and the transition of Port of New Bedford to America's #1 Fishing Port (who knew?)Finally - talk with the docents. They gave us excellent information that added color to the exhibits.

This is a great event at a lovely, warm museum full of beautiful things and nice people. Anyone who has a love of literature should attend the Moby Dick Marathon. People who truly love the book read for 25 hours, some camp out in sleeping bags on the upper level of the museum. The exhibit in the museum pertaining to Moby Dick is always amazing. On a snowy night in January, with Christmas lights still glowing, walking the cobblestones streets I this quaint area of town is heavenly. There is something for everyone in the museum.

With the recent release of the movie adaptation of the book In the Heart of the Sea: The Tragedy of the Whale Ship Essex by Nathaniel Philbrick -- the actual historical basis for Herman Melville's Moby Dick - I decided to go take another visit at the Whaling Museum. When I was growing up we used to have field trips to this museum all the time, and I think it proves itself to be a great place since I can say I still like going there after all these years. It has a lot of things for both kids and the historically-inclined adults. There are mock-ships for people to go around and walk about, whale skeletons (the smell has gone away - when they first got their last whale skeleton they were cleaning it out, but there is no smell left!), scrimshaw elegantly designed, biographies of people involved in whaling etc. And since it is located so centrally in downtown, it is right across the street from a few other Historical attractions, as well as only a 10 min walk to the harbor and the Ernestina - a functioning old-time ship. If you visit New Bedford, this is a must-see!

This is what New Bedford is all about. This is what put New Bedford on the map. The people that work here make the museum what it is. They love and believe in what they are doing. When you step aboard the "ship" that is constructed indoors, you become a child at heart. What a great experience.

Fantastic display about all things "whaling" - the biology of the whales, evolution to current whaling regulations, use of the different parts of the whale, local history of whaling, maritime aspects, dangers of whaling profession...you name it. The exhibits and interpretive material is first class...you can read as much or as little as you want and still learn something. The layout of the museum tells a story. The scrimshaw exhibit is pretty spectacular. A definite must-do if anywhere near New Bedford.

The New Bedford Whaling Museum offers exhibits in every conceivable area of whaling: stories about whaling, whale exhibits, scale model whaling ships, international whaling regulations, scrimshaw, and more.

Step back in time to discover the unique history of the whaling industry. Visit New Bedford, the "Whaing City" and see how it got its name. The exhibits are well maintained and the docents (museum guides) are very knowledgeable about everything concerning whales and the industry that Herman Melville portrayed in "Moby Dick". You can step aboard the Lagoda which is a replicaof a whaling ship or walk around the museum and see exhibits from seagoing journeys. The museum is located in scenic downtown New Bedford with an inspiring view of an actual working waterfront which is also easily accessed and pedestrian friendly. Close by are local shops and restaurants that offer a variety of local flavor. Come to New Bedford and enjoy history.

Been to the museum many times and I have learned something new every time. The history of New Bedford is well exhibited from the whaling years to the Cape Verdeans on board the Ernastina. There is do much more to see and breath in.

Very happily surprised by this excellent museum! So much more than I expected. The enthusiastic staff and well designed flow of the floors sent us on a learning adventure! Also, the visitors center was wonderful- staffed by people who love their venue. Want to come back in warmer weather and do the whole historical park around the museum.