![See More Off Route 24](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/See-More-Off-Route-24.jpg)
Waterfront Sunsets
Fall River’s sunsets, with the USS Massachusetts and the scenic Taunton River as their backdrop, offer a truly unique and unforgettable experience. As the sun sinks below the horizon, a kaleidoscope of warm hues paints the sky, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that is perfect for capturing memories of your visit to the South Coast.
Want the best seat in the house?
Click here to visit the Bicentennial Boardwalk and find the perfect spot along the water.
![Urban Oasis](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Urban-Oasis.jpg)
Urban Oasis
Bristol Community College Pond, 777 Elsbree St.
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![A Treasure Trove of Arts](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/A-Treasure-Trove-of-Arts.jpg)
A Treasure Trove of Arts
Greater Fall River Art Association, 80 Belmont St
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Urban Oasis
Bristol Community College Pond, 777 Elsbree St.
![Urban Oasis](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Urban-Oasis.jpg)
Stretch those road-weary legs and take Exit 5 off Rt. 24 for a break from the bustle at the walking path that surrounds the idyllic pond on the Fall River campus of Bristol Community College. Located at the northeast corner of the campus (accessed via Parking Lot 12), the pond serves as a bridge between the urban environment and the tranquility of nature.
The stroll around the pond is approximately a mile long and attracts people from all walks of life looking for a peaceful retreat and the opportunity to commune with nature without having to go traipsing around in the woods.
Although you can see the highway through the trees on one side and sports fields on the other, the pond creates an illusion of isolation, seclusion and peace that the cars can’t shatter. The trees that ring the pond and the animals that reside in its habitat create an oasis on the otherwise urban grounds. You’re likely to encounter birds, bunnies and frogs at the very least. Grab your camera, and maybe a snack, and spend some time at this hidden gem before hitting the road!
A Treasure Trove of Arts
Greater Fall River Art Association, 80 Belmont St.
![A Treasure Trove of Arts](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/A-Treasure-Trove-of-Arts.jpg)
Located in a historic residential neighborhood in the city’s Highlands area, the Greater Fall River Art Association holds many treasures within the walls of this 3-story Victorian home. Founded in 1955, the GFRAA plays a vital role in enriching the cultural landscape of Fall River and fostering a sense of creativity and connection among its residents. The GFRAA is home to 5 resident artist studios and a gallery that hosts rotating art shows.
The home on Bemont Street has artistry woven into the very fabric of its architecture, from its intricate stained-glass windows to the magnificent, curved staircase whose walls are lined with Approximately 40 pieces of art that the U.S. Works Progress Administration (WPA) commissioned during the 1930s. The WPA Gallery represents work by regional artists produced in the mid 1930’s as part of the Federal Art Project of the Works Progress Administration, a federal program to create work for artists during the Great Depression.
Take a step inside and go back in time before you head off to your final travel destination!
Gallery Hours
Saturdays 5pm-8pm, Sundays 1pm-4pm
Weekdays: by appointment only; (508) 673-7212
All Aboard!
Old Colony & Fall River Railroad Museum, 41 N Main St.
Located in the Children’s Museum of Greater Fall River, the Old Colony & Fall River Railroad Museum displays a rich collection of miniature model trains and railroad memorabilia.
It offers an immersive look into the history of the Old Colony Railroad’s influence on the community, featuring restored train cars, vintage locomotives, and authentic artifacts. The setup, resembling a living “I Spy” game, invites visitors to delve into the detailed miniature towns and buildings.
Spanning over 240 feet of tracks, this museum is a delightful destination for all ages, but it’s important to note that it operates on select weekends due to its volunteer-run status. For opening hours and special events, check their Facebook page.
A Sweet Ride
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Nestled within the historic surroundings of Battleship Cove, the Fall River Carousel & Carousel Creamery is the perfect respite from the road, and a great place to take in the beautiful scenes of the waterfront.
The centerpiece of the experience is Carousel No. 54, a beautifully restored antique wooden ride from the Philadelphia Toboggan Company, dating back to around 1919. With its 48 handcrafted horses, the carousel is a true work of art. The carousel was moved from Pennsylvania to North Dartmouth’s Lincoln Park in 1920, where it remained until the park closed in 1987. Attracting notable figures like Eleanor Roosevelt and John F. Kennedy during its peak, the park’s closure prompted the Fall River community to fundraise to prevent the carousel’s destruction. It was then relocated and continues to be a cherished Fall River gem.
Before you leave, don’t forget to treat yourself to a scoop of delicious ice cream at the Carousel Creamery!
![A Sweet Ride](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/A-Sweet-Ride.jpg)
Al Fresco Fun
Fall River Family Picnic Grove, 994 Jefferson St. Extension
If you’re craving a break from the chorus of “Are we there YET?!”, this family picnic grove on the banks of the South Watuppa Pond could be a trip saver! It’s a beautiful outdoor space with a large picnic area with 17 metal picnic tables, including two that are handicap accessible. The area stays cool even on the hottest summer day because it is surrounded by tall trees and greenery, which makes it a great spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Visitors can also take advantage of the playground and play areas for children, as well as the facilities for cooking and grilling.
Before you go, stop by one of Fall River’s many ethnic markets, like Portugalia Marketplace or Chaves Market, or bakeries, where you can get sweet and savory treats from all over the world!
![A Titanic Adventure](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/A-Titanic-Adventure.jpg)
A “Titanic” Adventure
Maritime Museum at Battleship Cove, 70 Water St
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![Peace On Earth](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Peace-On-Earth.jpg)
Peace on Earth
St. Anne’s Shrine, 818 Middle St.
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A “Titanic” Adventure
Maritime Museum at Battleship Cove, 70 Water St.
![A Titanic Adventure](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/A-Titanic-Adventure.jpg)
“I’m King of the World!” Have your own “Titanic” moment at the Maritime Museum, home to a 28-foot long scale model of the RMS Titanic used in Twentieth-Century-Fox’s 1953 film Titanic. The museum houses a diverse collection which includes more than 150 scale models, 30,000 photographs, videos, uniforms, audio recordings and more.
The museum also tells the tale of the Fall River Line (which operated from 1847 to 1937), a fleet of luxury steamships that carried passengers from New York City and Boston to summer homes in Newport. The Maritime Museum hosts temporary exhibitions as well as a Kid’s Cove Fun Space. They have a great gift shop too!
Admission to Battleship Cove gains you entrance to the Maritime Museum, but you can also purchase singular admission at $10 for adults and $8 for children ages 4-12.
Peace on Earth
St. Anne’s Shrine, 818 Middle St.
![Peace On Earth](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Peace-On-Earth.jpg)
Even for those who may not identify as religious, St. Anne’s Shrine offers a serene and tranquil environment that can be appreciated for its architectural beauty and historical significance. Completed in 1906, this iconic parish has played a central role in the spiritual and cultural life of the community, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s rich tapestry of history.
Perched atop a hill overlooking the historic Kennedy park, the 155 feet tall, gothic-style church is an iconic part of Fall River’s skyline. Today, the Saint Anne’s Shrine is the largest indoor Catholic Votive Light Shrine in Southern New England and is home to the country’s largest collection of faceted stained glass, with 171 windows total. The iconic facade of St. Anne’s Church is indeed a prominent feature in Fall River’s skyline, and the lower level of the church, housing the shrine, is a place where anyone can find solace and quiet contemplation.
The upper church at Saint Anne’s is currently undergoing extensive renovation work. However, the lower shrine is still open to the public and regularly holds mass. Current hours are Monday-Saturday 10:00am-4:00pm and Sunday 12:00-4:00pm. For more information, visit the Shrine’s website at https://st-annes-shrine.org/.
Whether it’s sitting in silent reflection, admiring the beauty of the surroundings, or simply taking a moment to pause and appreciate the splendor of the space, St. Anne’s Shrine welcomes all who seek a moment of peace and tranquility.
![Into The Woods](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Into-The-Woods.jpg)
Into the Woods
Southeastern Massachusetts Bioreserve
2400 Blossom Rd. Westport
Fall River’s geography is 50/50 urban environment and nature, the latter being the 515-acre Copicut Woods in the Southeastern Massachusetts Bioreserve. This expansive 16,000-acre area safeguards the Watuppa and Copicut watersheds and offers free access for hiking, biking, running, or enjoying the tranquil environment. If you’re short on time but want to enjoy nature, there are accessible ways to appreciate the Bioreserve.
Stretch your legs and get a dose of wildlife by walking the Tattapanum Trail, a loop trail extends just over 1 mile and is in the northwest corner of the North Watuppa Pond. For a more more challenging excursion, the 20-mile Bioreserve Loop Trail offers a comprehensive tour of the Fall River’s eastern forests and is very dog-friendly. Start from the Watuppa Reservation headquarters at 2929 Blossom Road, where trail maps are available.
Cheers! Hometown Breweries
Troy City Brewing, 16 Anawan St.
Canned Heat Craft Beer, 52 Ferry St.
Fall River boasts two dog-friendly craft breweries—
Troy City Brewing and Canned Heat Craft Beer— that cater to both casual drinkers and beer enthusiasts with a family-friendly, vibrant community vibe. These breweries serve a wide range of handcrafted beers, from traditional to innovative. Whether tasting a new brew, enjoying food truck fare, or enjoying live music, there’s always something memorable happening at one of these local breweries.
![Canned Heat](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Canned-Heat-Small.jpg)
![A Living Time Capsule](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/A-Living-Time-Capsule.jpg)
A Living Time Capsule
The Lafayette-Durfee House, 94 Cherry St.
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![A Work of Art](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/A-Work-of-Art.jpg)
A Work of Art
Fall River Museum of Contemporary Art, 44 Troy St.
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A Living Time Capsule
The Lafayette-Durfee House, 94 Cherry St.
![A Living Time Capsule](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/A-Living-Time-Capsule.jpg)
Nestled in a residential neighborhood not far from Fall River’s downtown, the Lafayette-Durfee museum has been dutifully preserved to showcase life in colonial New England museum. It was named after Fall River Judge Thomas Durfee, the original owner of the house who frequently hosted his friend and infamous Revolutionary war figure, General Marquis de Lafayette, during his visits to New England.
The house contains 18th century relics including hand stitched clothing, civilian muskets and military weapons, medical equipment, and household items.
Each year, the House hosts several exciting and unconventional events, perfect for the history buff in your life. Events range from educational talks, to living history walkthroughs, to experiential workshops that teach you how to churn butter, make candles or weave fabric like they did in the 1700s. You can even grab tea with Martha Washington herself!
Admission is free, with a suggested donation of $3. You can find more information about the house and view the full calendar of events at their website: http://www.lafayettedurfeehouse.org/.
A Work of Art
Fall River Museum of Contemporary Art, 44 Troy St.
![A Work of Art](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/A-Work-of-Art.jpg)
One of the city’s more recent additions to the cultural landscape, the Fall River Museum of Contemporary Art, or FR MoCA, is a prestigious contemporary art space that hosts a wide variety of exhibitions that include works in various forms such as painting, sculpture, installation art, digital art, and more. Founded and operated by two natives turned international artists, FR MoCA is a captivating blend of local roots and global perspective. The emphasis on sophistication suggests a high standard for artistic expression and curation, while the inclusive and welcoming environment indicates a commitment to making art accessible to everyone, regardless of age or background. This combination of qualities makes FR MoCA a vibrant cultural hub within the community, offering enriching experiences for visitors of all kinds.
More Ways To Explore
with our self-guided tours
![Ice Cream Tour](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Ice-Cream-Tour.jpg)
Ice Cream Tour
![Meat Pie Tour](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Meat-Pie-Tour.jpg)
Meat Pie Tour
![Latin American Food Tour](https://www.vivafallriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Latin-American-Food-Tour.jpg)
Latin American Food Tour
Upcoming Events
Free Pickelball Courts in Fall River
Discover the best free pickleball courts in Fall River, where you can enjoy a fun and competitive game!
Lafayette Park pool getting $1M upgrade. Your summer guide to pools, beaches, splash pads
Get ready for summer with this list of pools, beaches and splash pads in Fall River!
2024 Borden Light Marina Charity Poker Run
Learn all about the 2024 Borden Light Marina Charity Poker Run!
Wings on the Watuppa: Birdwatching in the Bioreserve
Register for a birdwatching event on the Watuppa Reservation with Mass Audubon!
POESIA: 1st Annual Fall River Portuguese Poetry Festival
Viva Fall River, in Collaboration with Newport Poetry, the City of Fall River, and the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Present the First Annual “POESIA: Fall River Portuguese Poetry Festival.”
Diman students, hiking group connect to improve Fall River’s Bioreserve
Learn more about how local high school students are working to make Fall River's Bioreserve more accessible!
Guide to Cannabis & CBD Dispensaries in Fall River
View a list of local dispensaries in Fall River!
Take a Walk Around Fall River!
Whether you're a local seeking new routes or a visitor eager to explore, Fall River offers an array of outdoor adventures for nature enthusiasts of all ages.
Riding Around the ‘Riv – “Novice Adventures in Bike Repair” (Post 1)
Follow along as Sarah Labossiere documents "Novice Adventures in Bike Repair"!
Riding Around the ‘Riv – “Overview of Some City Cycling Routes, Paths and Trails” (Post 1)
Read about all of the wonderful places you can ride your bike in Fall River!