New Bedford

Acushnet Heights, New Bedford Neighborhood

South Coast offers a serene setting with abundant green spaces, including nearly 40 nearby parks like Little League Fields and the Girl Scouts Of Ri Property, perfect for relaxing outdoor activities. The area features mostly single detached homes alongside small apartment buildings and duplexes, providing a variety of housing sizes from lofts to four-bedroom options. Convenience is enhanced by the presence of over 900 restaurants and cafes and access to essential services such as pharmacies and schools, both public and private. Well-connected by multiple bus lines with nearby highway access, this community supports easy travel and access to key amenities.

South Coast is a very good community to buy a home in for those who prefer a slower-paced environment. There are over 900 green spaces nearby for residents to unwind in, such as Horseneck Beach State Res and Bliss Street Conservation Area, which makes it easy to access them. This community is very quiet overall, as noise from the streets and other parts of the city is rarely an issue.

Highlights of Acushnet Heights

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🌳 Clasky Common Park

This historic green space along Purchase Street is a beloved neighborhood centerpiece, featuring walking paths, playgrounds, and seasonal events that bring the Acushnet Heights community together in the heart of New Bedford.

🏫 Carney Academy

Located on Morgan Street, Carney Academy is a public elementary school known for its dedicated staff and vibrant multicultural student body, serving as a cornerstone of family life in Acushnet Heights.

🍽️ Acushnet Avenue Restaurant Row

Stretching through Acushnet Heights, Acushnet Avenue is famed for its diverse lineup of Portuguese bakeries, Brazilian churrascarias, and local diners, making it a foodie destination unique to the neighborhood.

🛒 Amaral’s Market

This family-run Portuguese grocery store on Acushnet Avenue has served the neighborhood for generations, offering imported specialties, fresh bread, and a friendly local vibe that’s integral to daily life in Acushnet Heights.

🚴 Acushnet Rail Trail Access

The neighborhood offers close access points to the Acushnet Rail Trail, a paved path ideal for biking, jogging, and strolls, letting residents easily enjoy scenic views and a safe green commute to nearby towns.

A New Bedford Neighborhood

This August in Acushnet Heights

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

July 30–August 2, 2026

Feast of the Blessed Sacrament

Madeira Field, New Bedford

This four‑day free Portuguese cultural festival in New Bedford is the world’s largest of its kind, featuring music, parades, traditional food, and community spirit—perfect for Acushnet Heights residents looking to celebrate local heritage.

August 13, 2026

Scallopalooza at the New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center

New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center

A family‑friendly event with scallop shucking contests, food trucks, music, and demonstrations about local fishing gear—great for neighbors curious about New Bedford’s maritime roots.

August 7, 14, 21, 28, 2026

Summer Sound Series — outdoor concerts

Downtown New Bedford (Purchase & Union Streets) • 6:30 PM–8:30 PM

Free, block‑party style concerts featuring local talent like Neal McCarthy Electric and Jammin’—a fun evening outing just a short ride from Acushnet Heights.

August 17, 2026

3rd EyE Open Hip Hop Festival

Downtown New Bedford (Custom House Square, Wing’s Court, Sixth Street)

An inclusive, all‑ages festival with live hip hop, break‑dancing, art, vendors, and interactive activities—ideal for families and arts‑minded locals from Acushnet Heights.

August 15–16, 2026

Twelfth Night by Shakespeare in NB

Rotch‑Jones‑Duff House & Garden Museum • 7:30 PM

Enjoy a live outdoor performance of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night in the beautiful gardens—an enriching arts experience within easy reach of the neighborhood.

From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Acushnet Heights

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Acushnet Heights

Neighborhood Characteristics

Full Guide →

Demographics

Full View →