Fall Activities
Fall in New Bedford is a wonderful time to enjoy the last warm days of the year. The season is also packed with food festivals and cultural events, making for the perfect opportunity to explore the city. Mornings are a great time to take a refreshing walk along the harbor on the Blue Lane. As the weather starts to cool down, head indoors and spend hours exploring our museums. So, get ready to discover why fall is the perfect time to visit New Bedford.
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Chowderfest
New England is known for its clam chowder, and New Bedford is no exception. Every year, dozens of local restaurants compete for the title of best chowder. Make sure you come with an appetite! You get to be the judge as you sample chowder at each booth.
New Bedford Harbor Tour
In early Fall, take advantage of New Bedford’s mild weather on a two-hour boat ride through New Bedford’s harbor. You’ll explore the same waters Herman Melville once sailed as you take in scenic views, watch commercial fishing boats come and go, and learn interesting facts about New Bedford’s history.
Oktoberfest
The biggest craft beer festival in New Bedford takes place every year along New Bedford’s working waterfront. Enjoy a huge selection of beer, live music, and food trucks. Drink good beer for a good cause – ticket proceeds go towards helping at-risk teens and educational programs in the Greater New Bedford area.
All things pumpkin spice
Whether it’s a freshly brewed pumpkin ale at Moby Dick Brewing Company or a pumpkin spice latte at Groundfloor Coffee, we’ve got your pumpkin spice fix covered. Did we mention pumpkin spice ice cream? Head to Dairy Maid or Acushnet Creamery for homemade pumpkin spice ice cream. You’ll find other Fall flavors, like maple walnut, along with some classic and unique flavors on the menu.
The Horror Family
Do you like to go all out for Halloween? Check out this hidden gem downtown, where you’ll find the best collection of horror-themed toys, apparel, and props. They specialize in providing high-quality, unique, and rare horror and fantasy items.
Parks
New Bedford’s public parks are a great place to lay out a blanket and read a good book this time of the year. Motivated by the city’s maritime history? Grab a copy of Moby Dick and read the story that was inspired by Herman Melville’s days of whaling in New Bedford.
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park Visitor Center
If you need an indoor activity on a cool or rainy day, head to the visitor center just a few blocks from City Hall. Inside, you’ll learn about New Bedford’s history dating back to native Wampanoags, the whaling industry, and notable residents of the city. Park rangers are available to offer knowledgeable insights, or you can do a self-guided tour of the center.
New Bedford Public Library
One of the earliest municipal libraries in Massachusetts, the New Bedford Public Library is home to the world’s third-largest collection of US Whaling materials. The library also houses early 19th-century Quaker materials, an extensive genealogy collection, and a collection of pieces from world-renowned artists such as Albert Bierstadt.
New Bedford Art Museum
The museum, a former bank building, creates a unique setting for the New Bedford Art Museum situated in the heart of downtown. The museum specializes in offering an eclectic mix of contemporary art and an exploration of sight, sounds, and smells. Check out the New Bedford Gallery to view pieces from the city of New Bedford’s historic art collection offered on loan by the New Bedford Free Public Library located across the street.
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