Fall River Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, and accommodations in Fall River, Massachusetts, with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Fall River

Welcome to Fall River, a charming city located in SouthCoast, Eastern Massachusetts. This scenic destination boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural wonders, making it an excellent place to explore for travelers of all ages and interests.

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture aficionado, Fall River has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit, eat, stay, and explore, along with some insider tips to make your trip to Fall River unforgettable.

List of Places to Visit in Fall River

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Fall River is home to several historical and cultural landmarks that are worth a visit. Here are some of the must-visit attractions:

Battleship Cove

Battleship Cove is one of the most popular attractions in Fall River, especially for history buffs. This maritime museum is home to the world’s largest collection of World War II naval vessels, including the USS Massachusetts battleship, the destroyer USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr., the submarine USS Lionfish, and the PT-617 and PT-796 PT boats.

Lizzie Borden House

The Lizzie Borden House is a must-visit spot for true crime enthusiasts. This 19th-century house is where Lizzie Borden’s father and step-mother were brutally murdered in 1892, and it’s now a museum that offers tours and overnight stays for those who dare to spend the night in a real-life murder house.

Fall River Historical Society

The Fall River Historical Society is a fantastic place to learn about the city’s rich history. The museum has several exhibits that showcase the city’s past, including Victorian-era artifacts, local industry exhibits, and photographs of Fall River’s neighborhoods.

Natural Attractions of Fall River: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Fall River is surrounded by natural beauty, including forests, beaches, and rivers. Here are some of the best outdoor attractions to explore:

Freetown-Fall River State Forest

Freetown-Fall River State Forest is a great spot for hiking, biking, fishing, camping, and picnicking. The forest covers over 5,000 acres and features several ponds and streams, as well as a network of trails that offer stunning views.

The Quequechan River Rail Trail

The Quequechan River Rail Trail is a 2.5-mile long trail that offers scenic views of the Quequechan River and several historic landmarks, including the Fall River Granite Mills and the Battleship Cove.

Heritage State Park

Heritage State Park is a beautiful park located on the waterfront, featuring a boardwalk with incredible views, picnic areas, and a visitor center where you can learn about the city’s history.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fall River

Fall River has several hiking and biking routes that offer scenic views and a chance to explore the beautiful natural surroundings. Here are some popular routes:

  • The Quequechan River Rail Trail
  • The Pocasset River Greenway
  • Copicut Woods Trail System

Best Things to Do in Fall River: Activities and Tours

Fall River offers a wide range of activities and tours that cater to a variety of interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Fall River:

  • Take a tour of the Battleship Cove
  • Visit the historic Lizzie Borden House
  • Explore the Fall River Historical Society
  • Hike or bike along the Quequechan River Rail Trail
  • Enjoy a picnic at Heritage State Park
  • Go fishing or camping at Freetown-Fall River State Forest

Week-Long Itinerary for Fall River

Here’s a suggested seven-day itinerary for a trip to Fall River:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Battleship Cove
Day 2 Tour the Lizzie Borden House
Day 3 Hike or bike along the Quequechan River Rail Trail
Day 4 Explore the Fall River Historical Society
Day 5 Enjoy a picnic at Heritage State Park
Day 6 Go fishing or camping at Freetown-Fall River State Forest
Day 7 Visit the Fall River Arts & Culture Historic District

Food and Drink Scene of Fall River

Fall River is known for its fantastic food scene, with many delicious dishes that reflect the city’s history and culture.

Must-Try Dishes

Here are some of the must-try dishes in Fall River:

  • Linguica and chouriço sausage
  • Clams and other seafood dishes
  • Portuguese sweet bread
  • Stuffed quahogs

Local Beverages

Fall River has several local beverages that are worth trying, including:

  • Portuguese wine
  • Beer from the local breweries like Canned Heat Craft Beer Company and Troy City Brewing

Where to Stay in Fall River: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Fall River has several accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses.

Here are some suggestions:

  • Hampton Inn Fall River/Westport
  • Comfort Inn & Suites Fall River
  • Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast

What to Buy in Fall River: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Fall River offers several souvenir and local product options for travelers to bring home. Here are some recommendations:

  • Portuguese pottery and ceramics
  • Local artwork and crafts
  • Portuguese sweet bread

Local Culture and Customs of Fall River

Fall River’s culture is heavily influenced by its Portuguese heritage, which is evident in the local cuisine, traditions, and festivals. The Feast of the Blessed Sacrament is the largest Portuguese festival in the United States, held annually in August and attracting thousands of visitors.

Best Time to Visit Fall River

The best time to visit Fall River is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and there are several outdoor activities and festivals to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fall River

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Fall River:

Do:

  • Take a tour of the Battleship Cove
  • Visit the Lizzie Borden House
  • Explore the natural attractions of Fall River

Don’t:

  • Leave your belongings unattended in public places
  • Wear expensive jewelry or accessories in public

Safety and Health

Safety in Fall River

Fall River is generally a safe city, but it’s always important to take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some tips:

  • Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas
  • Keep your valuables close to you at all times
  • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas

Health in Fall River

Fall River has several medical facilities that cater to your healthcare needs. If you need emergency care, head to Charlton Memorial Hospital or Saint Anne’s Hospital.

Getting to Fall River: Transportation Options and Logistics

Fall River is easily accessible by air, road, and rail.

Airports Near Fall River

  • Boston Logan International Airport
  • T. F. Green International Airport in Providence

Bus Stations Near Fall River

  • Peter Pan Bus Lines
  • Greyhound Bus Lines

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train Service from Providence or Boston to the New Bedford train station
  • Taxi or rideshare services

How to Get Around in Fall River

Fall River is a compact city that’s easy to navigate by foot, bike, or car. If you don’t have your own vehicle, taxi and rideshare services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Fall River: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Fall River is located within driving distance to several other exciting destinations, including:

  • Newport, Rhode Island
  • Cape Cod, Massachusetts
  • Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Conclusion

Fall River is a hidden gem that offers a fantastic blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has helped you plan your trip to Fall River and has given you some insight into the best things to see, eat, and do in this beautiful city. Happy travels!

This mill, now a doctor's office, is constructed from local Fall River granite. This mill, now a doctor's office, is constructed from local Fall River granite. Grand Saloon inside the ''Priscilla,'' a palatial ship in the Fall River Line's fleet. Grand Saloon inside the ''Priscilla,'' a palatial ship in the Fall River Line's fleet. The Braga Bridge, a city icon, connects Fall River to points west via I-195. The Braga Bridge, a city icon, connects Fall River to points west via I-195. Battleship Cove's Battleship Cove's "Big Mamie" The South Watuppa Pond in winter The South Watuppa Pond in winter The Borden family graves at Oak Grove Cemetery The Borden family graves at Oak Grove Cemetery pastéis de nata pastéis de nata Al Mac's Diner Al Mac's Diner The Lizzie Borden House The Lizzie Borden House St. Anne's Catholic Church closed in 2018. Community efforts to restore and preserve the church are underway. St. Anne's Catholic Church closed in 2018. Community efforts to restore and preserve the church are underway. Horseneck Beach in Westport, MA Horseneck Beach in Westport, MA