Welcome to New Bedford!

Situated in the southern New England and the heart of the South Eastern Massachusetts on the shores of beautiful Buzzards Bay, the historic city of New Bedford is 58 miles (96 kilometers) south of Boston, Massachusetts, 31 miles (56 kilometers) east of Providence, Rhode Island, 28 miles (48 kilometers) west of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and just a ferry or plane ride away from Martha’s Vineyard, MA.

In 1841, writer Herman Melville shipped out from New Bedford which inspired him to write Moby-Dick, describing the opulence and courage of the city. A famous old whaling port, New Bedford continues to earn its living and pride from the sea. Today, New Bedford is America’s #1 fishing port with a large fishing fleet, spoiling visitors and locals alike with fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants.

Whether you’re a history buff or just looking to spend the day at sea, New Bedford offers a variety of attractions and activities to suit all interests. From the largest museum in America devoted to the whaling industry, one of the finest smaller Zoos in America, to the first free home of Frederick Douglass, New Bedford’s museums and attractions are sure to inspire, intrigue and delight.

New Bedford is also home to the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, the only National Park addressing the history of the whaling industry. Want culture? Visit the New Bedford Seaport Cultural District, comprised densely of businesses and cultural attractions all within a short walking distance! The summer season offers a full calendar of festivals and events, including the largest celebration of Portuguese culture in the nation! No wonder New Bedford bears the title of the 7th most creative city in America, according to Richard Florida, Atlantic Magazine!

Travel down a cobblestone path. Comb the beach. Shop antiques. See history come to life.  And, while you’re here, we hope you experience everything that makes us proud to call this incredible City “home.”

Start planning your adventure at www.DestinationNewBedford.org

 


New Bedford Brand Guidelines

In May 2018 the City of New Bedford revealed its updated brand and family of logos.

The vision for our brand springs from the roots of who we are and is intended to capture a colorful palette of people, history, and technology, to take pride in our diverse strengths, and to remind us that from our very inception, together we have been lighting the way. Thus, you will not only find reference to “Lucem Diffundo” meaning “I diffuse light” in our City Seal, but also in our new tagline “lighting the way” accompanied by our new logo, a modern depiction of Palmer’s Island Lighthouse which still stands today in New Bedford’s inner harbor.

Use this Brand Guildelines PDF to explore the new Brand Guidelines for the City of New Bedford.

Click here to download the PDF, or you can view the flip book online.