South Coast Rail unlocked: Daytrip to New Bedford and Fall River
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New Bedford station. Photo: David Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images
The South Coast Rail launches today, connecting New Bedford and Fall River to the state's Commuter Rail system. And, for now, it's free.
Why it matters: The extension connects the southeastern cities to Boston for the first time in 65 years, and unlocks the region for Bostonians looking for a day trip.
The latest: South Coast fares will be free through the end of March and on weekends in April, as well as Patriots' Day on April 21.
Plus: Commuter Rail parking at one of the six South Coast station lots will be free between today and April 30 (though you'll have to pay if the parking lots are full).
Pro tip: Stick to the New Bedford and Fall River stops.
- Skip the East Taunton, Freetown and Church Street stops unless you want to hail a ride to nearby hiking trails.
New Bedford
🐋 For the history buffs: Visit the Whaling Museum. It gives you a window into the massive industry that shaped the city throughout the 18th and 19th centuries and the legacy that endures today.
- There's also the Fire Museum, Art Museum and, for the architecture nerds, the Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum.
- Assembly Row Park has a statue of Frederick Douglass, who built a new life as a free man in New Bedford. (He lived on Elm Street, but his house is long gone.)
🏖️ For a beach day: The New Bedford stop is a 10-minute ride to East Beach near Fort Taber Park.
- A 20-minute ride gets you to West Island Town Beach in Fairhaven, which is the next town over.
👟 For scenic views: Check out the Harbor Walk, a pedestrian and bike path in the South End alongside the city's massive hurricane barrier.
- Watch the walkway light up after sunset.
🦞 Where to eat: The Black Whale for the bacon-wrapped scallops and lobster rolls.
- Churrascaria Novo Mundo, near the Harbor Walk, for some flame-grilled chicken.
Fall River
🪓 The most high-profile landmark may be the home of Lizzie Borden, who was acquitted of murdering her parents with an axe.
- It's a museum and bed and breakfast.
Some less gory options: Battleship Cove, which houses five historic U.S. naval ships and other watercraft, and the Children's Museum.
🦀 Where to eat: The Cove by the Commuter Rail station for seafood and steak.
- Or, with a 10-minute ride, get the grilled octopus or paella at Sagres.
For some snacks, check out Big Bazaar Indian Grocery and Cinderella's Bakery (get the Portuguese sweet bread and Chouriço rolls).