Just a few minutes off Route 1 in Bath, Maine, the Maine Maritime Museum is where centuries of seafaring history meet the salty air of the Kennebec River. Bath has been called the “City of Ships” since the 1800s, and this museum puts you right in the heart of that legacy. From full-size schooners to hands-on exhibits, it’s a stop that can turn a quick detour into an entire afternoon.

If you’re fascinated by shipbuilding, love maritime art, or just enjoy a scenic stroll along the river, the museum blends indoor galleries with outdoor trails, piers, and working boatyards. It’s immersive without feeling stuffy, making it perfect for families, history buffs, or anyone looking to stretch their legs and soak in the view.

Why It’s Worth the Stop

You can stand beneath the full-scale sculpture of the Wyoming, the largest wooden ship ever built in the United States, and imagine the sound of hammers and the smell of fresh-cut timber. Step inside to explore shipwright tools, historic photographs, and stories of Maine’s shipyards that once launched vessels around the world.

If you visit in summer, don’t miss the boat tours that depart right from the museum’s dock, taking you past historic lighthouses and working shipyards, including Bath Iron Works, where massive Navy destroyers are still built today.

Know Before You Go

• Location: 243 Washington St, Bath, ME — less than a mile from Route 1

• Hours: Open daily year-round; check website for seasonal hours and tour schedules

• Admission: Paid entry, with discounts for seniors, children, and members

• Parking: Free, on-site

• Accessibility: Most exhibits and outdoor areas are wheelchair accessible

• Pro Tip: Arrive in the morning to catch both a museum visit and an afternoon boat tour