Fort Taber-Fort Rodman Military Museum
Historic Civil War-era fort and military museum offering panoramic Buzzards Bay views and recreational park amenities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Park is lively, events often held
Fort Taber-Fort Rodman Military Museum
Best Time
Park is lively, events often held
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Civil War-era fort and military museum offering panoramic Buzzards Bay views and recreational park amenities.
"A New Bedford treasure with impressive fort views and a gem of a military museum."
Check Museum Hours First
The museum is a highlight! Confirm operating hours before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Explore the Park Grounds
Beyond the fort, enjoy walking paths, beach access, and picnic spots with great views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fort Taber Exterior
South end of the peninsula
Explore the impressive 19th-century Civil War-era fort from the outside, offering a glimpse into its historical significance.
Fort Taber-Fort Rodman Military Museum
Adjacent to the fort
Discover donated artifacts and memorabilia, preserving New Bedford's rich military history with veteran volunteers.
Buzzards Bay Vistas
Throughout the park
Enjoy breathtaking 270° panoramic views of Buzzards Bay from the fort's strategic location.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Fort Taber's Grandeur & Museum Access
Beyond the Fort: Park Amenities & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Museum Hours First
The museum is a highlight! Confirm operating hours before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Explore the Park Grounds
Beyond the fort, enjoy walking paths, beach access, and picnic spots with great views.
Event Day Buzz
Food truck festivals and other events draw crowds but offer a lively atmosphere.
Respect the History
Be mindful of the historical significance and any posted restrictions.
Must do's or must sees in NB?
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Museum Hours First
The museum is a highlight! Confirm operating hours before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Explore the Park Grounds
Beyond the fort, enjoy walking paths, beach access, and picnic spots with great views.
Event Day Buzz
Food truck festivals and other events draw crowds but offer a lively atmosphere.
Respect the History
Be mindful of the historical significance and any posted restrictions.
Volunteer Stories
Chat with veteran volunteers at the museum for in-depth historical insights.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Fort Taber is widely praised as a New Bedford treasure, offering a combination of historical significance and beautiful coastal scenery. Visitors appreciate the panoramic views, the park's amenities like walking paths and a beach, and the valuable exhibits at the Military Museum. Some wish for greater access to the fort's interior, and occasional concerns about litter in certain areas have been noted.
"A New Bedford treasure. This 19th century fort sits at the the south end of a peninsula jutting into Buzzard's Bay where it provided protection for New Bedford Harbor. The location provides a 270° panaramic view. The park is operated by City of New Bedford Parks and Recreation and includes a playground, beach, bike/walking path, fishing pier, picnic areas and restrooms. There is also a military museum on site. Awesome place to spend time. A gem."
Mark Donahue
"Excellent fort. Just wish we could enter the parade ground. No public entrance."
Diane Gannon
"Went to the New Bedford Food Truck Festival for the second year in a row. The park is nice and the view is great. It was a great day weather wise and the food was fantastic."
Robert Haldeman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fort Taber is located at the south end of New Bedford, MA. It's accessible by car, with parking available within the park. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, there is parking available within Fort Taber Park, which is convenient for visiting both the fort and the museum.
The park features walking and biking paths, making it accessible for those who prefer to arrive on foot or by bicycle, especially if coming from nearby areas.
Using a GPS or map application on your phone is advisable. The fort is a prominent landmark at the peninsula's tip.
Fort Taber is part of the New Bedford waterfront, offering views of the harbor and potentially nearby wind turbines.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Fort Taber Park is generally free. However, access to the interior parade ground of the fort itself may be restricted.
Museum hours can vary, and it's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information, especially regarding special events or anniversaries.
While the park is free, the museum may have an admission fee or suggest donations. It's advisable to confirm this directly with the museum.
Public entrance to the fort's parade ground is often restricted, though you can view it from the outside.
The museum celebrates anniversaries and hosts speaker series. The park also hosts events like the New Bedford Food Truck Festival, which can affect access and crowds.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Fort Taber Park offers a playground, beach, bike/walking paths, fishing pier, picnic areas, and restrooms, in addition to the historic fort and museum.
The museum houses donated artifacts and memorabilia from New Bedford veterans, preserving local military history.
Absolutely! The fort's architecture, the panoramic views of Buzzards Bay, and the museum exhibits offer excellent photo opportunities.
The park grounds are generally accessible, but the historic fort itself may have uneven terrain. The museum's accessibility should be confirmed directly.
You'll get a 270° panoramic view of Buzzards Bay, offering a scenic and expansive vista.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no permanent restaurants within the fort or museum, picnic areas are available. Local food trucks often visit during festivals.
New Bedford has a variety of dining options, from seafood to ethnic cuisine. Exploring the city center will offer more choices.
Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is a great option, with designated picnic areas available in the park.
Yes, Fort Taber hosts events like the New Bedford Food Truck Festival, offering a wide array of food options.
During festivals, expect a diverse range of food trucks offering everything from local favorites to international dishes.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the fort, the panoramic views of Buzzards Bay, and the museum exhibits all provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's best to check with the City of New Bedford Parks and Recreation or local authorities before flying a drone.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for capturing the fort and the bay. Midday provides clear views but can be harsh.
Photography policies within the museum can differ. It's polite to ask museum staff or look for signage regarding photography rules.
The juxtaposition of the historic fort with the modern waterfront and natural scenery offers unique photographic possibilities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during a community event like the Food Truck Festival for added entertainment and diverse food options. The walking paths are also stroller-friendly, allowing for easy exploration of the park's scenic beauty. Remember to bring beach essentials and snacks to maximize your family's enjoyment.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Photographers
While direct access to the fort's parade ground may be limited, the exterior architecture and its strategic placement are historically significant. Photographers will find ample opportunities, from the fort's imposing structure to the sweeping 270° panoramic views of Buzzards Bay. 🚶♂️ Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Fort Taber-Fort Rodman
The Military Museum plays a vital role in preserving the legacy of soldiers from the region. It houses a diverse collection of donated artifacts, uniforms, photographs, and personal accounts from veterans. This museum is not just a repository of objects; it's a testament to the stories and sacrifices of individuals who served. Veteran volunteers, often with firsthand knowledge, are dedicated to sharing these narratives, making the museum experience deeply personal and informative.
Visitors often express a desire to explore the fort's interior parade ground, but access is frequently limited. This restriction, while understandable for preservation, means many visitors experience the fort primarily from its exterior. However, the surrounding park provides ample space for exploration and appreciation of the fort's scale and its commanding position on the peninsula.
Exploring Fort Taber Park
The park's most striking feature, aside from the fort, is its 270° panoramic view of Buzzards Bay. This expansive vista provides a sense of openness and natural beauty, making it an ideal location for relaxation and enjoying the coastal environment. The park is also a popular venue for community events, such as the well-attended New Bedford Food Truck Festival, which transforms the space into a vibrant hub of activity and culinary delights.
While the park is generally well-maintained, some visitors have noted occasional issues with litter in certain areas, particularly within the bunkers of the fort. Efforts are ongoing to keep the park pristine, but community awareness and responsible use are key to preserving its beauty for everyone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit