It has been 50+ years since we visited New Bedford and we were very pleased to find this new (to us) whaling museum. It is chock full of New Bedford whaling history, including a half-scale whaling ship inside the museum. The exhibits were fascinating, and in many cases, information we had never heard before about the sailors, their ships, and their lives. Although we spent 2.5 hours touring, I am sure we did not see it all. Well worth the trip and the time.

Excellent presentation of whaling back in the day. Excellent exhibits of various paintings, drawings, artifacts, glassware, scrimshaw, whale skeletons, bones etc. we spent more than 5 hours there and need to go back to see the rest. There was metered street parking. I suggest you start at the top floor3rd) and work your way down. The museum cover whaling around the world.

Truly an amazing museum and collection of all things whaling. The replica tall ship was fantastic. So much to see and learn. Culturally, environmentally & geographically. Plan on a few hrs. if you don’t have little kids. Well worth a few hrs

This is a wonderful museum and it is great for all ages. They tell the story of Native Americans, the impact of Europeans, the slave trade and contributions of ex-slaves, the development of industrial mills, as well as the whaling industry. There are works of art, historical artifacts, multimedia presentations, and scientific displays that would interest everyone. The whale skeletons are phenomenal. This is a museum to which we could return many times and still enjoy.

This museum was actually larger than I expected and had a great variety of exhibits. It’s true that it’s great for all ages. There were exhibits geared towards younger audiences and lots of information to read for individuals interested in New Bedford’s history — including things related to the textile industry. There was much more to see than simply things about the history of whaling, so that was a pleasant and welcome surprise.

The museum is a hidden little gem. Very interesting displays and artifacts, including some things that you can touch and experience. Loved boarding the half scale vessel and learning about whale ship living conditions. The whale skeletons and replicas of the heart and fins are amazing. Even though the gift shop items were way too expensive, I would definitely visit again

Although we only live one hour away, this was our first visit to the museum. The whale skeletons and models of a whale heart bring an awareness of just how large these creatures are. Displays of whale teeth, baleen, bones and more were fascinating. We happened upon a tour being led by Larry, and we were so glad we joined it. Larry is a wonderful guide with a wealth of information about whales, sailors, the ships themselves, New Bedford, and all sorts of interesting facts and trivia. He even played some sea shanties and explained why they were important to the sailors. At the end of the tour, Larry mentioned that the new director of the museum planned to emphasize the art work, possibly at the expense of, what we believe is the true purpose of the museum - to show how New Bedford was built on whaling. It would be a shame if this happens. We were pressed for time and missed some of the exhibits, as you need a minimum of three hours to truly take it all in. You would be very fortunate if on your visit, Larry is giving tours that day! He was remarkable in his knowledge and passion for all things New Bedford.

The Whaling Museum has three floors of exhibits. An elevator is available for those having trouble with stairs. It is suitable for families. There is a half scale model of an actual whaling boat which you can board. The displays are clear and some include a short video on the topic. There is a 3D movie in a small theater which is shown periodically during the day. There are numerous docents who are very friendly and add to your enjoyment of the visit. A great couple hour visit!