
Fort Taber Park and Fort Rodman
Historic fort meets scenic waterfront park with playgrounds, sports courts, and ocean views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Fort Taber Park and Fort Rodman
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic fort meets scenic waterfront park with playgrounds, sports courts, and ocean views.
"Beautiful place, Went there after I finished working and the cool sea breeze just relaxed you and put you at ease."

🚶♀️ Stroll & Relax
Enjoy the cool sea breeze and beautiful scenery for a relaxing experience. Perfect for walks! :walking:
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Bring a picnic to enjoy the expansive green spaces and waterfront views. :sandwich:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fort Rodman
Within Fort Taber Park
Step back in time exploring this impressive 19th-century coastal defense fort.

Waterfront Views
Park perimeter
Enjoy panoramic ocean vistas and the soothing sound of waves crashing.

Playground & Green Spaces
Central park area
Ample room for kids to play and families to relax on the grass.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Waterfront Vibe
Explore History and Recreation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
New in New Bedford: things to do around
🚶♀️ Stroll & Relax
Enjoy the cool sea breeze and beautiful scenery for a relaxing experience. Perfect for walks! :walking:
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Bring a picnic to enjoy the expansive green spaces and waterfront views. :sandwich:
Must do's or must sees in NB?
Checking out the area in July
👟 Active Fun
Great for fishing, biking, and walking. Volleyball and pickleball courts available too! :volleyball:
🏰 History Explorer
Don't miss exploring the historic 19th-century fort. :old_key:
need an isolated place
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll & Relax
Enjoy the cool sea breeze and beautiful scenery for a relaxing experience. Perfect for walks! :walking:
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Bring a picnic to enjoy the expansive green spaces and waterfront views. :sandwich:
👟 Active Fun
Great for fishing, biking, and walking. Volleyball and pickleball courts available too! :volleyball:
🏰 History Explorer
Don't miss exploring the historic 19th-century fort. :old_key:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Fort Taber Park for its beautiful waterfront scenery and relaxing atmosphere, often highlighting the refreshing sea breeze. The park offers a good mix of historical exploration at Fort Rodman and recreational activities like playgrounds and sports courts, making it a versatile destination for families and individuals alike. Some reviews mention that maintenance could be improved in certain areas.
"My wife and I visited our grandson at College in Boston, and the way home we stopped at Castle Island for a stroll and ice cream at Sullivan's. Love to go people watch. Used to fish here as a child before Pleasure Bay was created. Lovely scenery."
William Fitzgibbon
"Wonderful location but not maintained properly"
debraj ghosal
"Beautiful scenery.. Volleyball courts, pickleball courts... playground, nice beach ⛱️"
Tejay Rogers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fort Taber Park is located at 1000 S Rodney French Blvd, New Bedford, MA. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available within the park. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is generally recommended for ease of access.
Yes, Fort Taber Park offers plenty of parking spaces throughout the park, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Parking is generally free.
Absolutely! The park is a great destination for cyclists. There are paths within the park and it's accessible via local roads. :bike:
While Fort Taber Park is a destination in itself, you can explore nearby areas like Gifford Street to see wind turbines or head towards the coast for more scenic views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Fort Taber Park and Fort Rodman are generally free to enter and explore. You can wander through the grounds and the fort without any admission fee. :ticket:
The park grounds are typically open from dawn to dusk. The museum within the fort may have specific operating hours, so it's best to check their official schedule if you plan to visit it.
Yes, Fort Rodman is a key feature of the park and is open for visitors to explore its historic structures and grounds. :old_key:
The volleyball and pickleball courts are usually available on a first-come, first-served basis and are free to use. It's a great way to enjoy some active recreation. :volleyball:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic Fort Rodman, enjoy the waterfront views, relax on the green spaces, visit the playground, and utilize the sports courts for volleyball or pickleball. It's also a popular spot for fishing and walking. :fishing_pole:
Absolutely! The park features a playground, plenty of open space for running around, and the beach area is great for kids to explore. The historical aspect of the fort can also be engaging for older children. :child:
Yes, fishing is a popular activity at Fort Taber Park. The waterfront location provides good opportunities for anglers. :fishing_pole:
Restroom facilities are typically available within Fort Taber Park, especially near the main attractions and playground areas, making it comfortable for longer visits.
Expect beautiful waterfront scenery with expansive ocean views, green lawns, and the historic architecture of Fort Rodman. It's a picturesque setting for a day out. :ocean:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there aren't typically permanent restaurants within the park itself, it's a fantastic spot for picnics. You might find seasonal vendors, but it's best to bring your own food and drinks. :sandwich:
For ethnic restaurants or diverse dining options, you might need to venture into downtown New Bedford. The Reddit community suggests exploring local eateries for authentic experiences.
Check the park's specific regulations regarding grills or barbecues. It's always a good idea to be mindful of designated areas and fire safety if permitted.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic Fort Rodman offers dramatic backdrops, while the waterfront provides stunning ocean vistas. The green spaces and sunset views are also highly photogenic. :camera:
Yes, the western-facing waterfront location makes Fort Taber Park an excellent spot for capturing beautiful sunset photos over the water. :sunriseovermountains:
Landscape, historical, and casual family photography are all popular here. The varied scenery offers something for every photographer. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Explorers
☀️ Outdoor Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Fort Rodman: A Historical Gem
While the fort itself is a major draw, the surrounding parkland complements the historical experience. The park was developed around the fort, creating a unique blend of military history and public recreation. It's a place where you can learn about the past while enjoying the present-day amenities.
Recreational Activities for Everyone
The expansive green lawns are perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, or simply relaxing with a good book. The waterfront location also makes it an ideal spot for fishing, with many visitors casting their lines from the shore. Whether you're looking for active fun or a peaceful escape, Fort Taber Park has something to offer. :volleyball: :fishing_pole:
The Allure of the Waterfront
Visitors often describe the cool sea breeze as incredibly relaxing and stress-relieving. It's a place where you can feel the vastness of the ocean and enjoy the natural beauty of the coastline. Whether you're watching the waves, enjoying a sunset, or simply breathing in the salty air, the waterfront experience is a major highlight. :ocean: :sunriseovermountains:

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit