Top 10 best museums in New Bedford

The New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park is a designated area in the city of New Bedford, Massachusetts, United States. It is formally managed by the National Park Service (NPS). The park offers a glimpse into the city's history, particularly its 19th-century prominence due to whaling. Despite being a National Park, only two buildings are owned by the NPS; the administration is shared between the NPS, the city of New Bedford, and private owners.

The Ernestina-Morrissey, formerly known as the Effie M. Morrissey, is a schooner with a rich history of scientific expeditions in the Arctic. These expeditions were sponsored by renowned institutions such as American museums, The Explorers Club, and the National Geographic Society. This makes the ship a significant piece of maritime history, offering tourists an insight into the world of Arctic exploration and scientific discovery.

The Rotch–Jones–Duff House and Garden Museum, originally known as the William Rotch Jr. House, is a National Historic Landmark located at 396 County Street in New Bedford, Massachusetts. This historic site is deeply connected to the city's 19th-century dominance of the whaling industry, and today, it serves as a museum that educates visitors about this significant period in American history.

Fort Taber District, also known as the Fort at Clark's Point, is a historic military fort from the American Civil War era. It is located on Wharf Road within the former Fort Rodman Military Reservation in New Bedford, Massachusetts. This fort holds significant historical value and offers a glimpse into the past, making it an interesting site for tourists interested in history and military architecture.

Fort Taber District, also known as the Fort at Clark's Point, is a historic military fort from the American Civil War era. It is located on Wharf Road within the former Fort Rodman Military Reservation in New Bedford, Massachusetts. This fort holds significant historical value and offers a glimpse into the past, making it an interesting destination for history enthusiasts.

The New Bedford Fire Museum is a local history museum situated at 51 Bedford Street in New Bedford, Massachusetts, United States. It is a place where visitors can learn about the history of firefighting in the city through a collection of firefighting equipment and memorabilia.

The New Bedford Whaling Museum (NBWM) is a museum dedicated to the whaling industry. It is located in the American city of New Bedford. The museum is part of the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, which is a national historic site specializing in whales. This is because the port of New Bedford was one of the most prominent whaling ports in the world during the 19th century.

The Buttonwood Park Zoo, situated in New Bedford, Massachusetts, holds the distinction of being the third-oldest zoo in New England and the 12th-oldest zoo in the United States. This historic zoo, which opened its doors in 1894, is a testament to the rich history and heritage of the region.

The New Bedford Museum of Glass, situated in New Bedford, Massachusetts, is a repository of a diverse collection of glass artifacts. These range from ancient Mediterranean unguent bottles to modern designs by renowned artists such as Dale Chihuly. This wide array of exhibits offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the evolution of glass art and design over centuries.