Top Things to Do in Bath, Maine

By Maddie Vincent

Explore the Charm, History & Hidden Gems of the City of Ships

No one knows or loves Midcoast Maine quite like Springer’s Jewelers. As Maine’s oldest jeweler, we’ve proudly served the community from our Bath location for generations—right on the brick-lined sidewalks of Front Street. When we’re not helping you find something beautiful to mark life’s milestones, you’ll find us savoring all the best that this historic town has to offer.

Looking for fun things to do in Bath, Maine this weekend? Whether you’re arriving by boat, road tripping along Route 1, or exploring the Midcoast for the first time, we’ve curated a guide to the best things to do in Bath, Maine—from maritime adventures to local dining, shopping, and coastal beauty.

Shop the Charm

Known as the "City of Ships," Bath blends historic charm with an artistic soul. Whether you're exploring its redbrick-lined streets or strolling along the Kennebec River, you’ll find plenty of spots that celebrate craftsmanship, creativity, and Maine’s maritime heritage. These boutiques stand out for their thoughtful curation and small-town charm.

Lisa-Marie’s Made in Maine – Local pride in every product

Where: 170 Front Street

Vibe: True Maine spirit with an artisan twist

Why We Love It:

Lisa-Marie’s is a one-stop shop for gifts that tell a story. Everything here is made in Maine—by painters, potters, jewelers, and woodworkers who capture the state’s rugged beauty and creative soul. From hand-thrown mugs and blueberry jam to balsam sachets and sea glass jewelry, the shelves are brimming with heart.

Local’s Tip: If you’re visiting from away, this is the place to stock up on souvenirs that actually feel meaningful (and pack well in a suitcase).

Now You’re Cooking – A cook’s playground

Where: 49 Front Street

Vibe: Kitchen store meets culinary candy shop

Why We Love It:

Now You’re Cooking is a dream for anyone who loves food, whether you're a seasoned home chef or just learning to boil pasta. The store is packed with cookware, gadgets, knives, and cookbooks, but never feels overwhelming thanks to the friendly, knowledgeable staff. They also carry Maine-made pantry items, barware, and fun finds for hosts.

Local’s Tip: Don’t miss their cooking classes and tastings—especially around the holidays, when things get extra festive (and delicious).

Mockingbird Bookshop – Thoughtful reads and quiet moments

Where: 74 Front Street

Vibe: Small-town indie bookstore with a literary heart

Why We Love It:

Mockingbird Bookshop is everything you want in a neighborhood bookstore—carefully curated shelves, cozy nooks, and staff picks that feel like personal recommendations.

Local’s Tip: Ask for their Maine author section—it’s a great way to discover stories rooted in local landscapes and voices.

Springer’s Jewelers – Visit us at 76 Front St. to explore timeless craftsmanship, stunning engagement rings, heirloom-worthy watches, and gifts that sparkle like the coast itself.

Where: 76 Front Street
Vibe: Historic elegance meets modern sparkle
Established: Since 1870 – Maine’s oldest jewelry store, and one of the oldest in the United States

Why We Love It:
Springer’s Jewelers isn’t just a jewelry store—it’s a piece of American history. Proudly family-owned and operated for over 150 years, Springer’s has served generations of Mainers and visitors alike with exquisite craftsmanship, exceptional service, and timeless style. We’re honored to be Maine’s oldest jeweler and one of the longest-standing jewelers in the country.

Every visit to Springer’s feels personal, warm, and inspiring—whether you’re shopping for an engagement ring, a vacation memento, or simply a sparkle that speaks to you.

What You’ll Find:

Estate & Vintage Jewelry – Discover one-of-a-kind treasures, from Art Deco brooches to Victorian rings and signed pieces from Tiffany, Cartier, and more.

Nautical-Inspired Keepsakes – From anchor and wave motifs to delicate compass rose pendants and maritime-influenced charms, our jewelry celebrates Maine’s coastal heritage.

Fine Jewelry & Engagement Rings – Ethically sourced diamonds, timeless settings, and signature collections to mark your most meaningful moments.

Luxury Watches – Explore prestigious brands like Tudor and Grand Seiko, or browse vintage timepieces with character and craftsmanship.

Custom Design & Repairs – Work with our expert jewelers to bring your vision to life or restore a family heirloom with care and precision.

Local's Tip: Ask to see our rotating estate collection—you never know what rare gem or antique setting you might discover. And if you’re commemorating your trip to Bath, let us help you find a piece of jewelry that captures the spirit of Maine.

Dine Like a Local

From sun-soaked brunches to waterfront pizza and elegant seafood dinners, Bath’s food scene offers a warm welcome and a taste of coastal Maine in every bite. Here's where locals actually go—whether it's for espresso and pastries or oysters and bubbly at golden hour.

Best Breakfast in Bath, Maine

Solo Pane & Pasticceria – Italian-style breakfast with a Maine twist

Where: 29 Centre Street
Vibe: European café meets neighborhood bakery
Established: Opened in 2022
Why We Love It:
Solo Pane brings the charm of an Italian bakery to the heart of Bath. Think flaky cornetti, frothy cappuccinos, and made-from-scratch Milk-bread. The atmosphere is bright, modern, and inviting—perfect for a slow morning or quick espresso stop.
Local’s Tip: Don’t miss out on the home-made bread options.

Mae’s Café & Bakery – Cozy brunch in a converted Victorian

Where: 160 Centre Street
Vibe: Homey, cheerful, and full of sweet smells
Established: Longtime local favorite
Why We Love It:
Mae’s is a Bath classic known for scratch-made baked goods, hearty breakfasts, and charming outdoor seating in warmer months.
Local’s Tip: The case of fresh-baked muffins, cookies, and cakes are hard to resist—so don’t. Take one (or three) to go.

Café Creme – The heart of Front Street’s coffee culture

Where: 56 Front Street
Vibe: Community hub with great coffee and casual eats
Established: A beloved staple for over a decade
Why We Love It:
This cozy café is an equal parts meeting place and breakfast stop. With locally roasted coffee, bagel sandwiches, and daily pastries, it’s the kind of spot where you’ll see regulars reading the paper or catching up with neighbors.
Local’s Tip: Try the flavored specialty lattes!

Best Lunch in Bath, Maine

Burano’s Wood Fired Pizza – Creative pies with waterfront views

Where: 128 Front Street
Vibe: Industrial-chic with a casual coastal feel
Established: New on the scene, already a hit
Why We Love It:
Burano’s dishes up wood-fired pizza with blistered crusts, creative toppings, and an unbeatable view of the Kennebec. Add in house cocktails, local beer, and a stylish interior, and you’ve got the perfect lunch spot.
Local’s Tip: The hot honey pizza is a fan favorite—pair it with a local lager on the patio.

Kennebec Tavern – Riverfront dining with something for everyone

Where: 119 Commercial Street
Vibe: Nautical, classic, and crowd-pleasing
Established: A longtime Bath go-to
Why We Love It:
Overlooking the water, Kennebec Tavern offers everything from lobster rolls and chowder to burgers and grain bowls. It’s a great spot for families, large groups, or anyone craving comfort food with a side of harbor breeze.
Local’s Tip: Time your lunch for high tide—the riverside views are unbeatable.

Bath Brewing Company – Craft beer and classic pub fare

Where: 141 Front Street
Vibe: Laid-back and lively
Established: 2018
Why We Love It:
This community-focused brewery offers house-made beers and elevated pub food in a relaxed, two-story space. Think fish and chips, giant soft pretzels, and fried pickles—all made for pairing with something on tap.
Local’s Tip: Try a beer flight to sample a few of their rotating seasonal brews—it's the best way to discover your new favorite.

Best Dinner in Bath, Maine

J R Maxwell & Co. – Old-school seafood and steakhouse charm

Where: 122 Front Street
Vibe: Warm, wood-paneled, and classic
Established: 1979
Why We Love It:
Maxwell’s is the kind of place where locals celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and quiet Tuesdays. The menu leans into Maine staples with a timeless charm and reliably good service.
Local’s Tip: Ask for a table in the back room for a cozier, quieter dinner.

OystHERS Raw Bar & Bubbly – Feminine, fresh, and fizzy

Where: 97 Commercial Street
Vibe: Coastal chic with a champagne twist
Established: 2023
Why We Love It:
This women-owned gem celebrates the ocean’s bounty with local oysters, inventive small plates, and a curated list of bubbly. It's refined but relaxed, with just the right touch of sparkle.
Local’s Tip: The rotating oyster menu and weekly specials make it worth repeat visits.

Linden + Front – Modern dining with global inspiration

Where: 244 Front Street
Vibe: Sleek, stylish, and unexpected
Established: 2024
Why We Love It:
Linden + Front offers an elevated but approachable dinner experience in the heart of Bath. Seasonal dishes, inventive flavor combinations, and a modern aesthetic make it feel like something straight out of Portland, without leaving town.
Local’s Tip: The cocktail program is a standout—don’t skip the bar menu.

Make the Most of Your Day in Bath

A walkable downtown, rich maritime heritage, and easy access to nature make Bath the perfect spot for a Maine day trip or weekend getaway. Here's how to explore it like a local:

Step aboard the Mary E, the oldest Maine-built wooden schooner still afloat, or dive into shipbuilding history at the Maine Maritime Museum
Wander Front Street, home to locally owned shops, galleries, and bookstores—perfect for slow browsing and unique finds
Hike through Thorne Head Preserve, where wooded trails lead to salt marshes, overlooks, and quiet river coves
Catch a performance, concert, or exhibit at the Chocolate Church Arts Center, a 19th-century landmark turned cultural hub
Bring your binoculars and spot osprey, herons, and even the occasional bald eagle at Sewall Woods or along the Whiskeag Trail
Stroll the Bath Waterfront Park, where you can watch the shipyard in action or simply sit and take in the view of the Kennebec River

Things to Do in Bath, Maine This Weekend

From Art Walks and summer concerts in Library Park to the famous Heritage Days Festival, Bath offers a full calendar of seasonal fun. Local favorites include:

Saturday Farmers Market (waterfront location!)
Live music at the Chocolate Church Arts Center
Outdoor movies, festivals, and tall ship events throughout the summer

Visit Springer’s Jewelers

As the oldest jewelry store in Maine, Springer’s has been a part of Bath’s history for over 150 years. Whether you’re celebrating a memory or starting a new tradition, stop in to find your sparkle.

📍 76 Front Street, Bath ME