Get a unique glimpse into America’s maritime history and discover the city of Bath, Maine on the City of Ships Walking Tour! Bath has been a cornerstone of American shipbuilding since the 18th century and this popular tour is a wonderful way to learn all about it.
A historic shipbuilding hub often referred to as the “City of Ships,” Bath, ME was America’s fifth largest seaport during its heyday. The town’s shipyards produced some of the most iconic vessels in American history, including the fast and graceful clipper ships that sailed the world’s oceans. This tradition continues today, with the Bath Iron Works still busy crafting seagoing vessels.
Walking through Bath can sometimes make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Our historic town, nestled along the Kennebec River, is home to a collection of elegant, 19th century, Federal-style homes built for ship captains and shipwrights. The downtown area, alive with charming shops, restaurants, and galleries, presents a delightful blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.
In fact, our Bath, ME bed and breakfast, The Inn at Bath is one of the those historic, 19th century homes Bath is known for. Our beautiful Greek Revival home, built as a private residence sometime around 1840, is located in the heart of the Bath historic district.
History buffs or those simply wishing to learn more about Bath will want to take the City of Ships Walking Tour.
The City of Ships Walking Tour
This fun, 90 minute walking tour in Bath’s quaint downtown district covers more than 400 years of history. Each stop on the tour reveals another layer of Bath’s history, from its early days as a bustling port to its current status as a hub for maritime innovation.
The nicely-paced tour is just under a mile long and starts off from Bath’s Waterfront Park, located less than half a mile from The Inn at Bath’s front door. An educator well steeped in Bath’s history leads the approximately 90 minute tour. You’ll view historic homes on Washington Street, visit Bath’s storied shipyard, see the Bath Customs House, and visit the Maine Maritime Museum.
By the tour’s end, you’ll have a deeper connection to Bath’s maritime roots. The City of Ships Walking Tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, or anyone eager to explore Maine in a unique way. It’s a journey through time and a celebration of Bath’s enduring spirit.
Best of all, guests of The Inn at Bath can stay steeped in history, as they are staying in a historic, 19th century Bath home, located just minutes from the tour. What fun!
Visit www.embarkmainetours.com to learn more about tour times, tickets, and other details.
2024 Haunted Bath Walking Tour and Oak Grove Cemetery Tour
The Inn at Bath is hosting a special Halloween event this year that includes two walking tours guided by Emily of Embark Maine Tours, October 25th and 26th, 2024.
The Haunted Bath Walking Tour takes you to homes and other locations in historic Bath with haunting histories!
The Oak Grove Cemetery Tour will give you chills as you are led through and told tales of the residents of one of Maine’s oldest and most significant cemeteries.
Other details of our Halloween weekend include options to write and share gothic horror stories, evening refreshments, and a 2-night lodging special. Visit our Specials and Events page for more details.
We hope you’ll join us for this very spooky, special event!