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Now’s the time to book that Cape Cod getaway
Find out what’s ahead for the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom, why Cape Cod travelers should book soon, and what else is worth a trip this week.
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Hampton Beach has always been a special place for us, as we have family in the area, and catching shows at the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom has been a decades-old tradition. When a sunkissed beach day concludes with live music in a storied venue steps from the ocean, it’s hard to beat that level of contentment. I’m sharing the ballroom’s 2026 entertainment lineup.
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Also on tap this week is info about Cape Cod summer rentals, Panda Fest, discounted Amtrak fare, and more.
Plan a Hampton Beach getaway
The Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom is gearing up for its 99th season ahead of a multi-million dollar redevelopment. I’ve got the 2026 entertainment lineup as well as detailed plans for the property’s future. If you’re planning a beach weekend around a show, check out what there is to see and do at the classic summertime getaway.
Raise a pint at this standout brewery in Maine
We enjoy checking out breweries when we travel and this one is on my list. Allagash Brewing Co. in Portland, Maine was just named one of the 10 best brewery tours in America by USA Today readers. It was chosen for its selection of tours in which visitors can learn about the brewing process and sample featured releases.
Don’t delay in booking your Cape Cod getaway
Travelers considering a Cape Cod vacation this summer should book now, according to short-term rental experts. “For the peak season in July and August we’re about 65% occupied,” Blake Decker, CEO of Pretty Picky Properties, told me during a recent chat. What’s more, Cape Cod was just named among the best destinations for a Memorial Day weekend getaway by Conde Nast Traveler.
Travel tips:
- Enjoy a meal outside during Food Truck Friday at Roger Williams Park in Providence, R.I., kicking off April 17 and running through Sept. 25. Each week features more than 15 food trucks, live music, beer and wine, train and carousel rides, and more. Admission is free.
- Nantucket will be full of daffodils for the island’s 50th Annual Nantucket Daffodil Festival, taking place April 24-26. Festival goers will enjoy a flower show, antique car parade, dog parade, children’s events, hat pageant, and more.
- Panda Fest, billed as one of the biggest outdoor Asian food festivals in the country, returns for its second year May 15-17 at Ohiri Field at Harvard University in the Allston neighborhood of Boston. More than 80 food vendors, as well as live performances and artisan markets will mark the event. Those interested can get tickets here.
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- Amtrak just launched a spring sale with up to 25% off regularly priced adult fares when booked by March 13 for travel between April 13 and June 5. Meanwhile, train travelers can book one-way fares from Boston to Providence for $10 and from Boston to New York City for $25 using Amtrak’s Night Owl fares, special fares for trips between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m.
- Waltham’s food scene has something for everyone, according to the Waltham Chamber of Commerce. Discover where to get a meal for under $20 in Waltham.
- Book a discounted summer stay on Lake Winnipesauke during The NASWA Resort’s “sizzlin summer special,” valid Sunday to Thursday nights. Guests must stay a minimum of two nights between July 6 and Aug. 14. Rates at the 1935 waterfront resort start at $189 and travelers should use the code SIZZ.
- Spending time in Boston? Check out 10 free things to do in Boston in March.
I’ll leave you with this photo of Boston’s first 6 p.m. sunset of the year, taken by Michael.
Where have you traveled lately? Please share your photos by sending them to [email protected] and they may be featured in an upcoming Scenic Six newsletter.
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Whether you’re traveling this week or planning your next escape, enjoy the journey.
— Kristi
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