Things to Do: Exploring the South Coast from Fall River to Wareham

Whether you are visiting for a weekend or lucky enough to call Buzzards Bay home, the South Coast is packed with hidden gems and legendary landmarks. From monumental maritime history and world-class museums to tranquil coastal trails and family-friendly wildlife encounters, there is an adventure waiting around every bend. Pack your sunscreen, grab your walking shoes, and dive into the best things to see, do, and experience along the bay!

Fall River

  • Battleship Cove is a world-renowned maritime heritage museum right on the waterfront. Step aboard the historic USS Massachusetts, explore a Cold War submarine, and view the country’s largest collection of WWII PT boats. It’s an immersive, hands-on journey through history that coordinates beautifully with a stroll along the adjacent Fall River Heritage State Park boardwalk.
  • The Narrows Center for the Arts: Housed in a historic mill building, this thriving cultural anchor features an eclectic art gallery and a top-tier acoustic music venue hosting incredible touring performers from across the country.
  • Lizzie Borden House: (A Bed and Breakfast & Museum) stands as one of the most famous true-crime landmarks in American history. Visitors can step directly inside the 1892 Victorian home where the notorious unsolved double axe murders took place. The historic property functions as both a museum and a uniquely spine-chilling destination for travelers looking to explore local history from a slightly macabre angle.

Westport

  • Horseneck Beach State Reservation stands out as one of the most magnificent stretches of coastline in New England. Offering two miles of sandy beach, breezy walking paths, and excellent conditions for windsurfing and birdwatching, it is the ultimate summer day trip destination.
  • Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary: Just down the road from the beach, this Mass Audubon property features miles of pristine walking trails winding through salt marshes, coastal ponds, and woodlands—a true paradise for hikers and nature photographers.

New Bedford

  • New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park and the world-class New Bedford Whaling Museum capture the city’s legendary past as “the city that lit the world.” Walk the beautiful cobblestone streets of downtown, marvel at massive blue whale skeletons, and step inside the world’s largest ship model.
  • Whaling City Expeditions: Get a different perspective of the nation’s top commercial fishing port by taking a guided harbor tour or a relaxing sunset cruise out past Palmer’s Island Light.
  • Buttonwood Park Zoo is highly praised as one of the finest small zoos in the United States. It’s an ideal, walkable destination for families, featuring interactive nature play areas, a train ride, and up-close encounters with native New England wildlife as well as international species.

Fairhaven

  • Fort Phoenix State Reservation: Rich in Revolutionary War history, this scenic oceanfront park features a historic fort bastion, expansive lawns for picnics, a public beach, and a half-mile paved hurricane barrier path offering panoramic views of the harbor and Buzzards Bay.
  • West Island & The Multi-Use Path: For a tranquil day in nature, head out to the West Island State Reservation trails or take a leisurely bike ride or stroll along the town’s flat, beautifully scenic multi-use recreation path.

Mattapoisett & Marion

  • Shipyard Park & Ned’s Point Light: Located in Mattapoisett, this is the quintessential spot to watch boats bobbing in the harbor. You can tour the historic 1838 stone lighthouse, let the kids run on the grassy lawn, or catch an outdoor evening concert at the gazebo during the summer months.
  • The Sippican Lands Trust Trails: Tucked away in Marion, these protected conservation lands offer a beautiful escape into nature, featuring serene wooded boardwalks, quiet salt marshes, and pristine coastal vistas perfect for birdwatching.

Wareham

  • Cape Cod Canal Cruises (leaving out of nearby Onset Pier) offers a fantastic way to experience the world’s widest sea-level canal. Enjoy a narrated afternoon history cruise or a lively evening music cruise as you glide beneath the iconic railroad and highway bridges.
  • Onset Beach: Tucked into a sheltered bay, this soft-sand beach features calm, gentle waves that are absolutely perfect for families with small children, kayaking, or paddleboarding.

Looking for more local inspiration? To discover even more of what makes this region so incredibly special, be sure to check out the South Coast Almanac. Now published in collaboration with the Buzzards Bay Coalition, this fantastic regional magazine is the ultimate insider guide to southeastern Massachusetts. From hidden-gem trails and coastal recreation to the latest updates on local art, culture, and dining, their beautifully curated stories and monthly “8 Great Things” event lists will help you uncover the absolute best hidden spots and happenings all around Buzzards Bay.