Exploring the New Fall River/New Bedford Line

The brand-new Fall River/New Bedford line (also known as South Coast Rail) has transformed how travelers can explore hidden gems and communities in southeastern Massachusetts. This exciting expansion of Boston’s Commuter Rail makes it easier than ever to enjoy day trips from Boston without a car, perfect for those on the hunt for culture, history, outdoor adventures, and delicious food. 

Whether you’re searching for local tourist attractions, charming small town experiences, or historic escapes, the Fall River/New Bedford line connects you to some of the most unique places to visit in Massachusetts. There are six new stations on the line: Middleborough, East Taunton, Freetown, Fall River Depot, Church Street (in New Bedford) and New Bedford. Read on for a guide to day trips from Boston along the Fall River/New Bedford line, featuring the top restaurants, shops and attractions at each stop!

1. New Bedford: Maritime History Meets Modern Art

New Bedford is a vibrant coastal city with a thriving arts scene, amazing seafood restaurants, and incredible historic attractions, perfect for a full day’s worth of exploring on a train tour from Boston.

Must-Visit Attractions:

• New Bedford Whaling Museum: Explore the city’s whaling legacy at the New Bedford Whaling Museum amongst a life-size, 66 foot blue whale skeleton; half-scale model of a whaling bark; and many other intriguing exhibits. Historically, the whaling industry was a huge part of New Bedford’s economy and community. The museum explores the history of the industry and its role in the area as well as educating about whale preservation and our collective impact on our communities.
  • Looking to explore New Bedford and make it a day trip from Boston without a car? Keolis massAdventures has you covered! Our brand new Explore New Bedford: Food Tour & Whaling Museum Experience first welcomes you to explore the iconic New Bedford Whaling Museum and then takes you on a journey through history, culture and taste on a walking food tour through downtown New Bedford’s best eateries! This weekend train tour from Boston with Keolis massAdventures includes your round-trip transportation from Boston, including transportation from the New Bedford Station to the Whaling Museum, and back to the station at the end of your trip. 

• Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum: Open daily, you can visit the historic, and huge,  Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum. The house was built in 1834 for whaling merchant William Rotch Jr. and occupies a full city block! Designed by Richard Upjohn, the house is a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture. The gardens were cultivated for both aesthetic and useful purposes through the work of Mr. Rotch himself and his gardener. Interesting fun fact: Mr. Rotch shared his interest in plants with his son-in-law, James Arnold, who was a benefactor of the Arnold Arboretum located in Boston.

• New Bedford Art Museum: Centrally located in downtown New Bedford in a former bank building, this unique museum & gallery features intriguing exhibitions and educational programs. Focusing on local and contemporary art, the exhibitions change throughout the year. Art-lovers can visit during open hours: Thursday – Sunday, 9AM – 5PM.

• Seaman’s Bethel: A historical landmark meaning “house of God”, Seaman’s Bethel was built in 1822 and was the place whalers attended services before they began their dangerous journey out to sea. Among those men were Heman Melville, who was in New Bedford from December 1840 – January 1841. The story of his journey, and Seaman’s Bethel, is immortalized in his novel “Moby-Dick”. 

Best Place to Eat in New Bedford:

• The Black Whale: A visit to New Bedford wouldn’t be complete without seafood. This contemporary bar serves up coastal cuisine alongside harbor views. Locals love The Black Whale for its traditional, overflowing New England lobster rolls, cups of warm clam chowder and fresh, raw, local oysters.

• Endzone Restaurant and Bar: A lively family-run restaurant offering classic bar food, seafood and Portuguese favorites; this truly has something for everyone on the menu.

• Merrill’s on the Waterfront: This harborside seafood restaurant offers breathtaking views of the waterfront in addition to their mouthwatering menu. The menu includes classic coastal New England favorites such as lobster rolls, stuffed quahogs, fish & chips, plus the local favorite Portuguese steaks. They also serve up fresh twists like lobster-crab cakes, lobster quesadillas and orange-ginger scallops.

Photo courtesy of The MadLila.

Unique Shops:

• Bushwood Tailors Opportunity Shop: The sister-shop to Bushwood Tailors in New York City, this unique tailor shop and retail space is focused on sustainability at its core. A place all sustainable shoppers should know about, and add to their must-visit list. 

• Calico: This trendy boutique offers a curated selection of stylish clothing and jewelry. Some brands you can find there include: Free People, MINKPINK, Rolla’s, Boys Lie. You can also find a custom jewelry bar featuring permanent jewelry by Salted Silver on select dates. 

• The MadLila: An eclectic clothing shop offering stunning vintage and pre-loved pieces. The MadLila is perfect for thrifters who want to visit a shop that already curated pieces for their collection, with displays of fun and unique outfit ideas to inspire you even further. 

Fall River: Waterfront Views & Portuguese Delights

Known for its rich Portuguese heritage, sea-faring history and local tourist attractions, Fall River is a must-stop along the South Coast Rail line. 

Can’t Miss Attractions: 

• Battleship Cove: Tour “America’s Fleet Museum” at this unique place to visit in Massachusetts. Home to historic naval ships and a non-profit memorial and museum, Battleship Cove is an educational and exciting place to visit for all ages. Check out the battleship, destroyer, and climb aboard a submarine! 

• Lizzie Borden House: Step inside the spooky yet fascinating former home of Lizzie Borden, where the notorious murders took place. Now a bed and breakfast offering tours, this truly is a one-of-a-kind experience. Tours range from less-spooky house tours that dive into the history of the house (note: eerie stories included!), to spine-tingling nighttime ghost tours that venture into the basement, giving you the only opportunity to see where the broken hatchet was found. 

• Fall River Heritage State Park: Stroll down the boardwalk to enjoy scenic river views at Fall River Heritage State Park, frolic in the meadow or even relax with a picnic. The mile-long waterfront boardwalk is wheelchair accessible and will provide stunning views of the ships at Battleship Cove. During the busy season you can even take a spin on the historic Fall River Carousel.  

Best Restaurants in Fall River: 

• The Cove Restaurant & Marina: This elegant waterfront restaurant serves American & Portuguese dishes with an emphasis on fresh, local seafood. Open year-round, this restaurant is a must-visit on a spring day trip from Boston when you can sit outside on the deck overlooking the marina. 

• Caravela Restaurant: A casual, family-friendly restaurant serving up authentic Portuguese cuisine. At Caravela’s you can eat in or order your favorites for takeout. Customer favorites include the portuguese steak, shrimp mozambique, and fish & chips. 

• Towne House Fall River: A ‘food complex’ located within a historic townhouse, this venue features Douro Steakhouse, Towne House Tapas & Oyster Bar, and XCafe. Inspired by the elegant, fine dining of yesteryear, Douro Steakhouse is a perfect spot for a date night or celebration dinner. Towne House Tapas & Oyster Bar features Portuguese favorites such as yucca croquettes, shrimp mozambique, and chouriço bombeiro (chouriço served over an open flame)

Shopping in Fall River: 

• Gathering Grounds Cafe: A brand new cafe, bookstore and ice cream shop by local business owner Karl Pelletier will be opening this May in the Fall River Carousel building along the Fall River Heritage State Park. Described in this article as “a cozy retreat for bookworms, coffee connoisseurs, and folks with a sweet tooth”, Pelletier is bringing life back into the carousel building.  Pelletier already has multiple locally-loved restaurants in Fall River and is looking forward to opening this new business along the boardwalk.

• Viva Fall River Visitors Center and Shop: The city’s tourism center was recently expanded to include a brand new Visitors Center and larger storefront. Find locally made goods made by over 40 different artists while perusing all the Fall River has to offer.

• Alexandra’s Boutique: Known across southern Massachusetts as a must-visit place for wedding and prom gowns, this four-floor boutique also carries bridesmaid, quinceañera, pageant, and cocktail dresses. Expert stylists can help you find the dress of your dreams for whichever occasion you are soon to be celebrating.

Photo of Freetown Service Memorial Park, courtesy of the Freetown Historical Society.

Freetown: Nature Trails & Local Favorites

One of the lesser-known stops along the Commuter Rail, Freetown is a quiet retreat with breathtaking nature and local charm. 

Must-Visit Attractions:

• Freetown-Fall River State Forest: A massive state forest with scenic trails and waterfalls. This state forest is perfect for those who want to get out of the city and explore the great outdoors. 

• Freetown Ledge: Lace up your sneakers for the 3.3 mile Ledge Loop! Located within the Freetown-Fall River State Forest, it is perfect for hiking, birding, and even mountain biking. 

• Assonet Village: According to the Freetown Friends of Historic Preservation this historic village’s name means “a place of stones” and “a song of praise”. Settled along the Assonet River and brimming with history, the village is home to many historic buildings. Some buildings date back to the 1700s, including sea captain’s homes and buildings with the breathtaking Classic Revival architecture.

Restaurants To Eat at in Freetown:

• Shanyoma Asian Cuisine: A casual dining restaurant with top-notch poke bowls and delicious sushi. The fresh ingredients and great service make this a hit among locals and visitors alike. 

• The Profile Tavern: This classic American restaurant has a laid back atmosphere and live music on the weekends. The Profile Tavern has something for everyone, smoking up barbecue such as brisket, pork, & ribs; plus pizza, burgers, and more. 

Unique Shops:

• Vintage Home and Design Studio: Open by appointment only, this design studio curates and refinishes an amazing collection of vintage furniture. If you are looking for that perfect piece of vintage furniture to tie a room together, this is the place to check out. 

• Between the Roses Florist: Brighten up your day with a visit to this local florist shop. Choose from a selection of fresh arrangements or customize your own! 

• Pop Culture: A local small business that specializes in “edible art that speaks to the heart”. Pop Culture’s tasty selection of cake pops, cookies and other confections will have you trying more than one! This is a must-stop shop when visiting Freetown.   

Taunton: A Historic City with Local Flavors

Taunton is a blend of colonial history and modern charm, making it a great stop for spring day trips from Boston. 

Must-See Attractions:

• Taunton Public Library: Situated near the Taunton Green and built in 1093. The Taunton Public Library is one of the original, iconic Carnegie Libraries. Carnegie Libraries were libraries funded by Scottish industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. Carnegie not only believed that libraries were important for communities, so everyone could have access to education. There were 1,681 Carnegie Libraries built in the United States, and another 828 built across the globe.  The Taunton Public Library is one of the few Carnegie Libraries that still fulfills its original purpose. It stands as a stunning example of Classic Revival architecture with a Beaux Arts design. Designed by Massachusetts-born architect Albert Randolph Ross, who was known for designing libraries. Ross was known most notably the Carnegie Library of Washington D.C.

• Taunton Green: The heart of this historic city remains as it was laid out in the 1740s. The Green is at the very center. The Green is a park-like area that was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985. Perfect for a peaceful and scenic walk, down tree-lined paths passing the water fountain and monuments honoring various veterans. 

• Boyden Park: A hidden gem in Massachusetts, Boyden Park is part of the Gertrude Boyden Wildlife Refuge. With over 50 acres of land, Boyden Park also serves as the headquarters for the Taunton Conservation Commission. Pack your lunch and get ready for a tranquil day in nature. There are picnic areas, fishing stations, a wetlands boardwalk, open fields,  and over two miles of nature trails to explore. 

Best Restaurants in Taunton:

• Riverhouse: Located on the riverside, this casual restaurant is a favorite amongst locals. Serving up everything from scallops to steak to shrimp tacos, the menu is crafted from local ingredients. This restaurant is a must-visit when in town, be sure to grab one of their outstanding mocktails!

• Mediterranean Bar & Grill: Casual eatery serving up generous portions of authentic Greek food. From seafood dishes to gyros, and lamb to moussaka, and even spanakopita customers rave about the authentic tastes. Save room for the homemade baklava for dessert!

• The Pearl: This local favorite is worth a day trip from Boston just for a meal here. The Pearl is a Portuguese restaurant offering their full menu plus specials that change daily. Highlights include: the steak regional, linguiça dip, and chouriço bombeiro.

Photo courtesy of the Taunton Antiques Center.

Thrifting Fun in Taunton:

• Taunton Antiques Center: Located right on the Taunton Green this is a treasure trove for vintage lovers. Offers 3 floors of antiques, home decor, a huge collection of records, and more.  

• Taunton Thrift: This small thrift store is located inside a stunning brick building attached to the Taunton Antiques Center. Find clothing and accessories for people of all ages at reasonable prices.

• Fratelli’s Bakery & Cafe: Finish off your shopping with a delightful dessert from Fratelli’s Bakery & Cafe. This family-run bakery is known for their freshly baked goods. The delicious smells waft out and welcome you into the bakery! Choose from delightful bites such as muffins, doughnuts, cheesecakes, and carrot cakes.

Middleborough: Small-town Charm & Outdoor Escapes

If you’re craving a peaceful spring day trip from Boston, Middleborough offers outdoor adventures and historic charm. 

Where To Visit:

• The Herring Run: Located just a mile and a half away from the Middleborough Station: you could walk there! This scenic park offers a beautiful little waterfall and a unique opportunity to see herring swimming upstream on the herring run. From late March through April you can easily see the herring jumping their way up the ladder. Visit the Herring Run at 47 Wareham St., Middleborough, MA 02346.

• The Robbins Museum of Archaeology: Named for the first State Archaeologist of Massachusetts, Maurice “Doc” Robbins, The Robbins Museum of Archaeology houses over 200,000 pieces of archaeological, cultural, and ethnographic collections. Take a journey through time and Indigenous history on your visit with a self-guided tour.

• The Barn on Benson’s Pond: These cranberry bogs are family-owned and run by third-generation cranberry farmers. Open by appointment or you can book with Keolis massAdventures for a one-of-a-kind day trip from Boston! Learn about cranberries on a stroll around the bogs on our Exclusive Guided Walking Tour of a Working Cranberry Farm. For a more hands-on experience, you can book our customer favorite Become a Cranberry Bogger for a Day adventure! You’ll suit up to learn how cranberry farmers grow, cultivate and harvest the berries! 

Best Places to Grab a Bite:

• Central Cafe: This casual family-owned restaurant has been around for over a century, and for good reason! Serving up American classics like burgers, wings, salads and pizza, it is a local favorite. Dave Portnoy of Barstool Sports visited for his “one bite” review of their pizza and gave it a 7.9!

• Coffee Milano Cafe: A cozy coffee shop you probably saw on TikTok last year when it went viral for inviting customers to dance their way into the shop in exchange for a free coffee! The friendly staff and delicious breakfast, lunch and brunch menu makes this shop a must-stop when visiting Middleborough. 

• Tom & Jimmy’s: A visit to Middleborough wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Tom & Jimmy’s. Loved by locals, this cool spot is open year-round. Their menu includes everything from ice cream cones to towering sundaes and custom-made ice cream cakes. 

Photo courtesy of Coffee Milano Cafe.

Unique Shops to Check Out:

• Middleboro Antique Co-op: With over 20,000 square feet and 160 vendors, the Middleboro Antique Co-op has antiques, collectibles and vintage finds for every treasure hunter. From furniture to vintage glassware, pins, posters, records and games, the vendors’ available items are always changing. The only constant in this shop is a uniquely fun shopping experience – you never know what you might find!

• True Grit Art Gallery: A intimate gallery showcasing art created by local and regional artists, True Grit Art Gallery is a true Massachusetts hidden gem and must-visit on a day trip from Boston. The galleries include paintings, pottery, photography, prints and even handmade jewelry! 

• Massgrailz Vintage: Thrifters, this one’s for you! Are you looking for a carefully curated collection of vintage clothing? Stop in to Massgrailz Vintage for a large selection of clothing, sneakers, hats and streetwear! 

Ride the Fall River/New Bedford line for the Best Day Tours from Boston via Train

With all of the new possibilities now accessible via the Fall River/New Bedford line, exploring Massachusetts’ coastal and historic southeastern towns is easier than ever before. Whether you’re looking for a spring day trip from Boston, a foodie adventure, or a scenic getaway, the communities off of the Fall River/New Bedford line offer something for everyone. 

For an effortless way to experience these destinations, consider joining a weekend day tour from Boston with Keolis massAdventures. Keolis massAdventures takes care of all the planning so you can explore the top places to visit in Massachusetts!