Hazelwood Park

A Seaside Escape with History

Located on Clark's Point in New Bedford's South End, Hazelwood Park spreads across 23 scenic acres with stunning views of Clark's Cove stretching toward Buzzards Bay. This waterfront location combines historical charm with recreational options for both active play and quiet relaxation.

A Step Back in Time

The land that makes up today's park traces back to three separate 19th-century country estates. As residential and commercial development began pressing into the area, the city of New Bedford acquired the land in 1902 to preserve it as public green space. The park takes its name from one of those estates - the "Hazelwood" property owned by Joseph Congdon.

The Gothic Revival house at the center of the park was built between 1839 and 1840 for Congdon, at a time when Clark's Point was still largely forested. He laid out a formal English garden on the grounds, an early shaping of a landscape that would eventually become a public park. The Howland House, dating to 1890 and situated near Brock Avenue, is distinguished not just by the main structure but by its substantial carriage house and stable. A third historic building, the Coffin-Howland House, is also on the grounds - fire-damaged and currently fenced off, it may incorporate sections of Congdon's original 19th-century carriage house, making it one of the more intriguing remnants of the park's estate past. Both the Howland House (now repurposed as the Rosemary S. Tierney Community Center) and the Gothic Revival house are recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.

The landscape itself has an impressive pedigree, designed by Warren Manning, who trained under the legendary Frederick Law Olmsted (the mind behind Central Park). Take a moment to climb the prominent hill for some elevated views that put the park's scenery into perspective. There's even a church within the grounds, adding another layer to the park's rich historical character.

Get Moving or Just Relax

The rolling lawns and well-kept green spaces offer plenty of room to spread out. If you're feeling beachy, head to the adjacent West Beach for some swimming or shoreline wandering - just bring water shoes as the beach floor can be rocky. For those who prefer wheels, the Saulnier Memorial Bike Trail connects you all the way to Fort Taber Park, making for a lovely ride or walk.

Nature enthusiasts should keep their eyes peeled - depending on when you visit, you might catch glimpses of ducks, geese, or even ospreys hunting over the cove.

Family Fun Central

Got kids? The large playground is popular with children, featuring modern equipment including slides, swings (with options for the little ones), climbing ropes, and a small zip line. The mulch-covered ground and plastic slides (instead of scorching metal ones) show thoughtful attention to comfort and safety.

Sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the basketball courts and tennis courts, while scattered picnic tables within the park make it easy to turn your visit into a day-long affair. Some tables offer views overlooking the beach - great for a sandwich with a side of serenity.

Beach Day Bonus

During summer months, the beach area comes alive. The waterfront setting is ideal for soaking up some sun, building sandcastles, or even renting kayaks to explore Clark's Cove from the water. Having beach access right alongside the park's other amenities gives Hazelwood added versatility throughout the seasons.