Visiting the New Bedford Whaling Museum
Discover the underwater world of whales, the dramatic story of whaling and its impact, and the maritime history of Southcoast Massachusetts at the New Bedford Whaling Museum – located in the heart of New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park. Marvel at five massive whale skeletons, the world’s largest ship model (Lagoda), and America’s longest painting. Explore whale science and conservation, learn how Yankee whalers sailed the seven seas, enjoy works by internationally known maritime artists.
Museum Hours
Beginning on July 23, 2020, the Museum’s hours are:
Wednesday – Sunday
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The Reading Room & Library are temporarily closed.
Museum Rules
1. Face coverings required
2. Stay at least 6 feet away from others
3. Wash your hands or use sanitizing stations located throughout the Museum
4. Follow the new directional signs in the Museum
Whaling Museum Admission
Online ticketing is now our primary method of selling admission. We have maximum capacity caps in effect at the Museum and tickets are sold on a first-come-first-served basis.
TIMED ADMISSIONS: In an effort to better manage the flow of crowds and maximize the ability for you to social distance, the Museum has instituted a timed admission system. You will need to choose a two-hour block of time for your visit.
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Members |
FREE |
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Adult |
$19 |
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Senior (65+) |
$17 |
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Students (19+) |
$12 |
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Child & Youth |
$9 |
Children aged 3 and under are FREE
Extend your admission for an additional $5 and include the Rotch-Jones-Duff House & Garden Museum.
Become a Member
Members enjoy free admission year-round and many other benefits. Before you purchase your admission ticket, CONSIDER BECOMING A MEMBER!
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EBT Card to Culture Program The Museum does not process EBT. Cash or other payment must be provided for admission. This discount program is being offered in collaboration with the Massachusetts Cultural Council and the Executive Office of Health and Human Services’ Department of Transitional Assistance. |
Group Tours
We are not currently offering docent-led group tours at the Museum.
Audio Tours
Audio tours add depth and understanding to your visit, as narrated by our curators and subject matter experts. All audio tours are FREE and accessible online using your personal internet-connected devices. Free wifi is available throughout the Museum for your convenience. We recommend that you bring your own headphones to enjoy the tours.
Access the audio tours HERE.
Parking
Metered Street Parking is available throughout the central business district (downtown), curbside parking is available for hourly-metered parking. Free two-hour parking is available along Johnny Cake Hill.
The Elm Street Garage is located one block north of the National Park Visitor Center (at North Second and William Streets) and two blocks from the Whaling Museum. Vehicle height limit: 6’3″. Directions to Elm Street Parking Garage: From I-195, take Exit 15 (Route 18 South – Downtown). Take RIGHT at the first traffic light onto Elm Street. Garage is approximately 500 feet on your RIGHT.
