Butler Flats Light New Bedford
Historic sparkplug lighthouse in New Bedford Harbor, a picturesque landmark with a storied past and early solar power innovation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Butler Flats Light New Bedford
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic sparkplug lighthouse in New Bedford Harbor, a picturesque landmark with a storied past and early solar power innovation.
"Beautiful sparkplug lighthouse, nicely visible from the Harborwalk."
📸 Best Photo Spots
Harborwalk offers prime, unobstructed views for stunning lighthouse photography. :camerawithflash:
💡 Historic Landmark
Appreciate its status on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1898! :historic_building:
Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Butler Flats Lighthouse
New Bedford Harbor
Iconic sparkplug lighthouse, a historic beacon guarding Buzzards Bay.
Harborwalk Views
New Bedford Harborwalk
Enjoy picturesque, unobstructed views of the lighthouse from the scenic waterfront path.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Views & Photo Ops
Understanding Its Status
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Best Photo Spots
Harborwalk offers prime, unobstructed views for stunning lighthouse photography. :camerawithflash:
💡 Historic Landmark
Appreciate its status on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1898! :historic_building:
☀️ Solar-Powered Beacon
One of the first solar-powered lights after automation in 1978. ☀️
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Best Photo Spots
Harborwalk offers prime, unobstructed views for stunning lighthouse photography. :camerawithflash:
💡 Historic Landmark
Appreciate its status on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1898! :historic_building:
☀️ Solar-Powered Beacon
One of the first solar-powered lights after automation in 1978. ☀️
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Butler Flats Lighthouse to be a beautiful and historic landmark, particularly appreciated for its picturesque views from the New Bedford Harborwalk. Its unique 'sparkplug' design and historical significance as an early solar-powered light add to its charm. While direct access is limited, its scenic presence makes it a worthwhile stop for photographers and history enthusiasts.
"Butler Flats Light Station is an adorable sparkplug lighthouse built in 1898 that has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1987."
Abigail Epplett
"Beautiful sparkplug lighthouse, nicely visible from the Harborwalk."
Emily Fishman
"Butler Flats Lighthouse is a nice lighthouse to photograph and visit."
Robert Alberg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The best way to see Butler Flats Light is from the New Bedford Harborwalk. You can park in the downtown New Bedford area and walk along the waterfront for excellent views.
Yes, there are several parking lots and street parking options available in downtown New Bedford, which is a short walk from the Harborwalk where the lighthouse is visible.
While you can't walk directly to the lighthouse as it's in the harbor, you can get very close and enjoy fantastic views from the New Bedford Harborwalk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Butler Flats Lighthouse is a visible landmark from the public Harborwalk, so no tickets are required to view it from shore.
As the lighthouse is viewed from the public Harborwalk, there are no official visiting hours. You can see it anytime, though daytime and sunset offer the best views.
Generally, access to the interior of Butler Flats Lighthouse is not permitted as it is a historic structure and often privately maintained or part of maritime operations.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset provide beautiful lighting for photographing Butler Flats Light. Full moon nights also offer a unique, romantic perspective.
The New Bedford Harborwalk offers the most direct and unobstructed views for excellent photography of the lighthouse.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local FAA and city ordinances before flying a drone near the lighthouse or harbor area.
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