BATH (AP) – Its blend of quaint New England shops and restaurants, a world-class maritime museum and a working waterfront have made Bath a place worth visiting, according to a nonprofit preservation organization.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation based in Washington, D.C., has listed the city as one of America’s Distinctive Destinations for 2005. There are only 12 cities and towns on the list, which includes Key West, Fla.

“Bath is a jewel hidden in plain sight,” said Richard Moe, president of the trust, in a written statement. “A small, historic and relatively unspoiled New England town, Bath had the good sense to hang on to what makes it so special.”

Bath beat 79 communities from 44 states for the honor, becoming the only Maine community to be recognized this year for its cultural heritage tourism.

Heritage tourism means an effort to bring travelers to Bath to experience its historic assets, its architecture, and its cultural diversity.

The historic preservation trust described Bath, with a population of 10,000, as an old seafaring town nestled beside the sparkling Kennebec River. It said the city is known for its treasure-trove of maritime history and historic buildings.

The recognition is one city representatives gladly received.

“I don’t think our story has been told yet,” said Leslie Trundy, co-coordinator for Maine Street Bath, which promotes the city’s commercial district.

“People don’t see our downtown, which is so vibrant. All they see from Route 1 is Bath Iron Works.”

City Councilor Andrew Winglass, a local business owner, said the designation means the city’s revitalization efforts are working.

“Bath is undergoing a resurgence, call it a renaissance,” he said.