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New England beach towns to know
Plus: July 4th events, Vermont State Fair, and Providence Restaurant Weeks coming soon.
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Welcome back to Scenic Six.
New England has so many fun beach towns, so we asked readers to share their favorites. I’ve also got plenty of recommendations for those traveling to Cape Cod and the Islands this summer, including which Cape beaches have stepped up security for the Fourth of July.
Plus: Mark your calendars for Providence’s restaurant week and Vermont’s State Fair (which has been running since 1846!).
Readers share their favorite beach towns in New England
After Bar Harbor, Maine was named among the most beautiful beach towns in the world by Travel + Leisure, we asked readers for their favorites and they chose sandy spots in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. Some of their picks brought back great memories and activities I highly recommend, such as biking the gorgeous Shining Sea Bikeway in Falmouth or renting a jeep on Nantucket and cruising to Great Point Lighthouse at the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge.
Book a luxury suite with sweeping views of the Mystic River
Those heading to charming Mystic on the coast of Connecticut this summer can check out The Stanton House, the newest addition to The Whaler’s Inn. Guests can choose from 10 luxury suites, including penthouses with sweeping views of the Mystic River and iconic Bascule Bridge. While you’re there, explore Mystic’s maritime history, shops, museums, cruises, and — of course — the pizza made famous by the 1988 movie “Mystic Pizza.”
Get help planning your summer on Cape Cod and the Islands
Are you heading to Cape Cod and the Islands this summer? The region is chockfull of incredible experiences, so I asked the town clerks who know the area best for restaurant, beach, and activity recommendations. Check out their tips in these travel guides for each town and start filling up your summer calendar with fun.
Travel Tips
- The 51st Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular is always a festive night in Boston at the Hatch Shell along the Charles River. This July 4, the free concert will include LeAnn Rimes, Leslie Odom, Jr., and Bell Biv DeVoe. And, of course, guests will enjoy the music of the Boston Pops as well as a colorful fireworks finale.
- Speaking of Fourth of July, police are stepping up safety measures at beaches in Dennis on that date so it’s a good idea to brush up on the rules before you go.
- Yearning for a big fair experience this summer? Check out the Vermont State Fair in Rutland Aug. 12-16, which first opened in 1846, and is one of the oldest state fairs in the United States. There will be live music, rides, food, livestock, shows, and more.
Deals and Steals
- Here’s your chance to check out The Vermilion Club in Boston while snagging a meal deal all summer long by downloading this Lunch Pass. The pass, valid through Aug. 31, is good for a 15% discount on lunch only, excludes alcohol, and can be used multiple times.
- Go sailing in Maine this summer by taking advantage of a summer sailing package at The Inn at Sunrise Point in Lincolnville. The package includes a two-hour schooner sail for two out of Camden Harbor, a bottle of red or white wine, and a fresh seasonal flower arrangement in your room for $195 in addition to your room charge.
- Enjoy two weeks of dining specials during Providence Restaurant Weeks, taking place July 6-19. Get breakfast, lunch, and dinner specials, prix fixe menus, signature cocktails, and more.
Want more deals? I’m updating a running list of New England travel discounts all June long.
I’ll leave you with this photo of Montpelier, Vermont, taken by Kelly Chan (who produces this newsletter!).
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Whether you’re traveling this week or planning your next escape, enjoy the journey.
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