Bath Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Bath, Maine? Read this guide for a comprehensive itinerary, must-see attractions, outdoor adventures, best food, accommodation options, and local culture.


Introduction to Bath

Bath is a charming town situated in Sagadahoc County, in Mid Coast, in Maine, in New England, in the United States of America, in North America. Bath is primarily known for shipbuilding, with the world-famous Bath Iron Works located here. Apart from this, Bath is also famous for its vibrant history, natural beauty, and iconic cultural attractions.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through some of the best things to do and see in Bath, Maine. From must-see cultural attractions and natural sites to outdoor adventures and scenic routes, this guide will help you plan a memorable trip to Bath.

List of Places to Visit in Bath

Here’s a list of some of the best places to visit in Bath, Maine:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bath is home to several culturally significant attractions, including:

  • Maine Maritime Museum: The Maine Maritime Museum is a must-visit site in Bath, with exhibits on the history of shipbuilding in Bath, along with exhibits on Maine’s maritime history.
  • Bath Historical Society Museum: If you’re interested in local history, don’t miss the Bath Historical Society Museum, which has exhibits on the history of Bath.
  • Chocolate Church Arts Center: The Chocolate Church Arts Center is a historic church that has been converted into a performing arts center, hosting concerts, plays, and art exhibitions.

Natural Attractions of Bath: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bath offers several outdoor adventures and scenic routes:

  • Kennebec River: The Kennebec River runs along the edge of Bath and is perfect for boating, fishing, or just strolling along the banks.
  • Reid State Park: Reid State Park is a beautiful park located on the coast, with sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and stunning views of the ocean.
  • Halcyon Heights Biking and Hiking Trails: The Halcyon Heights Trail System is a network of trails that are perfect for hiking or mountain biking. The trails wind through woods and fields with lovely views of the surrounding countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bath

Bath offers several hiking and biking routes, including:

  • Whiskeag Trail: The Whiskeag Trail passes through the forests and wetlands of Whiskeag Creek, offering hikers and bikers spectacular views of Bath’s natural beauty.
  • Bath Heritage Trail: The Bath Heritage Trail is a walking and biking trail that passes by Bath’s most historic sites.
  • Thorne Head Preserve: The Thorne Head Preserve is a lovely wooded trail that takes hikers through wetlands and forests, offering spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Bath: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best activities and tours to do in Bath:

  • Coastal Maine Photo Tours: If you’re a photography enthusiast, Coastal Maine Photo Tours offer group and private tours of Bath’s beautiful coastline and historic downtown.
  • Maine Foodie Tours: Maine Foodie Tours offer food tours of Bath, where you can sample some of the best local cuisine, including lobster rolls, clam chowder, and blueberry pie.
  • Maine Maritime Museum Lighthouse Cruise: Take a lighthouse cruise along the Kennebec River with the Maine Maritime Museum and see some of Maine’s most iconic lighthouses.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bath

Here’s a week-long itinerary if you’re visiting Bath:

Day Activity
Day 1 Maine Maritime Museum
Day 2 Reid State Park
Day 3 Bath Heritage Trail
Day 4 Coastal Maine Photo Tours
Day 5 Halcyon Heights Biking and Hiking Trails
Day 6 Maine Foodie Tour
Day 7 Thorne Head Preserve

Food and Drink Scene of Bath

Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Bath:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Rolls: Maine is famous for its lobster rolls, and some of the best ones can be found in Bath.
  • Clam Chowder: Clam Chowder is another Maine classic, and the version in Bath is not to be missed.
  • Blueberry Pie: Maine’s official state dessert is blueberry pie, and the blueberries in Bath are some of the best in the world.

Local Beverages

  • Shipyard Brewing Company: Shipyard Brewing Company is a local brewery that makes some of the best beers in Maine.
  • Lobster Craft Beer: If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Lobster Craft Beer, which is brewed with live Maine lobsters.
  • Maine Root Soda: Maine Root Soda is a locally-made soda, made with all-natural ingredients.

Where to Stay in Bath: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some of the best accommodation options in Bath:

  • Kennebec Inn: The Kennebec Inn is a historic bed and breakfast, located in the heart of Bath.
  • Waterfront Inn: The Waterfront Inn is located on the banks of the Kennebec River and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding countryside.
  • Hampton Inn Bath: The Hampton Inn Bath is a modern hotel, located just minutes from the Maine Maritime Museum.

What to Buy in Bath: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring back from Bath:

  • Lobster-themed souvenirs: You can find several souvenirs that are shaped like Maine lobsters, including bottle openers, fridge magnets, and keychains.
  • Maine sea salt: Maine’s sea salt is harvested from the pristine waters of the North Atlantic, and is a perfect gift for foodies.
  • Handmade crafts: Bath is home to several artisans, who make handcrafted pottery, jewelry, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Bath

Bath has a rich cultural history, which is reflected in its architecture, museums, and arts scene. Bath is also home to a vibrant shipbuilding culture, and the people here take great pride in the quality of their work. Bath is known for its friendly and welcoming locals, so be sure to strike up a conversation with someone while you’re here.

Best Time to Visit Bath

The best time to visit Bath is in the summer months, from late June to early September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and most of the outdoor attractions are open.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bath

Do:

  • Take a stroll along the Kennebec River.
  • Visit the Maine Maritime Museum.
  • Try some lobster rolls.

Don’t:

  • Litter.
  • Pick flowers or disturb wildlife in any way.
  • Ignore traffic signals and signs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bath

Bath is a safe town overall, with a low crime rate. However, it’s always good to be cautious when traveling, especially in tourist areas. It’s best to lock valuables in a safe and keep an eye on your belongings.

Health in Bath

Bath has excellent medical facilities, including Mid Coast Hospital, which is located just a few miles from Bath. However, it’s always good to have travel insurance when traveling to cover any emergency medical expenses.

Getting to Bath: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some transportation options to reach Bath:

Airports Near Bath

  • Portland International Jetport (PWM): Portland International Jetport is the closest airport to Bath, located 40 minutes away.
  • Augusta State Airport (AUG): Augusta State Airport is located an hour away from Bath.

Bus Stations Near Bath

  • Concord Coach Lines: Concord Coach Lines offers several daily trips from Portland to Bath.
  • Greyhound: Greyhound has several daily trips from Boston to Augusta, with a stop in Bath.

Other Options

  • Amtrak Downeaster: The Amtrak Downeaster runs from Boston to Brunswick, Maine, which is a 30-minute drive from Bath.

How to Get Around in Bath

Bath is a walkable town, and most of the attractions are located within walking distance of each other. Alternatively, you can rent a bike or car to explore the town and the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Bath: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions from Bath:

  • Boothbay Harbor: Boothbay Harbor is a picturesque coastal town located just 30 minutes from Bath, with several seafood restaurants, antique stores, and art galleries.
  • Popham Beach State Park: Popham Beach State Park is a stunning beach located just 20 minutes from Bath, with a lighthouse and several hiking trails.
  • Portland: Portland is Maine’s largest city, located just an hour away from Bath, with excellent restaurants, breweries, museums, and art galleries.

Conclusion

Bath, Maine, is a destination that offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or outdoor adventures. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has helped you plan your perfect trip to Bath and given you an unforgettable experience!