The late Allen C. Haskell, a lifelong New Bedford resident and famed horticulturist, assembled these six acres—the site of a traditional New England-style common, beautiful historic gardens, and one of the oldest homes in the city—over more than 30 years. Today, it’s a public park and unlikely botanical respite, blooming in the heart of New Bedford.

Stroll along meandering paths, explore spiral garden and historic brick buildings, and linger by the beds planted with local favorites as well as exotic rarities. A medley of trees—Japanese maples, six varieties of boxwood, and several specimen trees—loom over artfully landscaped grounds. The collection of ornaments throughout the gardens remain from Allen C. Haskell’s garden, providing distinctive furnishings to enjoy during your visit.

FREE to all.

Hours – open sunrise to sunset

787 Shawmut Avenue
New Bedford, MA 02746

Get directions on Google Maps.

There is no designated parking area, but on-street parking is available.

From Rt. 24 South, take Exit 12 for Rt. 140 South toward New Bedford. Follow for 17 mi. At Exit 3 for Hathaway Rd., take the ramp right. Turn left on Hathaway Rd., then, after 0.4 mi., turn right onto Shawmut Ave. The park is on your right.

Allen C. Haskell was a master horticulturist who used his small garden spaces to showcase unusual or rare plants offered for sale in his nursery. Today the plant collection here includes a wide variety of Japanese maple cultivars, a hydrangea test garden, and specimen trees include a large dawn redwood, variegated maple, several varieties of Chamaecyparis, and a large hosta display garden.

Please note that all buildings, greenhouses, and restrooms are closed to the public except during special events.

Currently Haskell Public Gardens does not allow weddings, elopements, ceremonies, or parties.

There is a trail map posted on a kiosk in the parking area.

We recommend that you take a photo of the map on your phone so you can refer to it during your visit, or download a trail map before you head out.

• Hunting is not permitted at this reservation. Learn more about hunting on Trustees properties.
• Allen C. Haskell Public Gardens is open Sunrise to Sunset 7 days a week.
• No dogs or other pets are allowed on the property.
• Parking is located on the street on Shawmut Avenue.
• PHOTOGRAPHY: We ask that photographers or their clients become Contributing Level Members before conducting portrait sessions at this property. Click here for more information, and to request permission for any portrait sessions.
• The Trustees of Reservations reserves the right, and may give permission to its designated photographers and videographers, or to outside media, to photograph or video visitors and program participants at all its facilities and properties.