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Welcome back to Scenic Six.

As you read this, I’m walking the gorgeous Marginal Way during a birthday trip to Ogunquit, Maine. We couldn’t travel far due to my son’s graduation this week, but luckily, we live in New England, where quick and beautiful getaways are always close by.

This week, I’ve got your Boston Harbor Islands guide for the 2025 summer season (Prosecco picnics, anyone?), as well as loads of info about free and discounted attractions and hotels across the region and dates for upcoming events such as the Portuguese Festival in Provincetown and Hillsboro Summer Festival in New Hampshire.

Experience an island getaway in Boston

Yes, Boston has an island escape. And it’s only a ferry ride away. I chatted with Rebecca Smerling, director of programs for Boston Harbor Now, about this summer’s programming on the Boston Harbor Islands. The islands are full of adventures such as camping, swimming, hiking, and more. Expect plenty of free daily events too, as well as ticketed events such as sunset clam bakes and the brand new Prosecco picnics (I’m eyeing those for sure).

Save money on food, attractions, and more this June

There are so many options for how to spend your time in June. Why not let these money-saving tips help guide your plans? Check out this list of hotel, food, transportation, and attraction discounts before planning your New England excursions, and I’ll keep adding to it all month long.

You can now hop on a Tiki Taxi at Hampton Beach

We spend a lot of time at Hampton Beach thanks to a close family member who lives on Ocean Boulevard. That’s why I think this new Tiki Taxi is a great idea. It’s perfect for bar hopping and getting to the other end of the lengthy and boardwalk while enjoying a rest. I chatted with friendly owner and driver Brian Sonia (who’s not above belting out songs and a few dad jokes from behind the wheel) about where the idea came from and how it all works.

Travel Tips

Find out where to get $1 oysters every day of the week in Boston, at places like Publico Street Bistro & Garden, State Street Provisions, and Trillium Fort Point.
Honor Provincetown’s Portuguese roots and fishing traditions at the 29th Annual Portuguese Festival and 78th Blessing of the Fleet on June 26-29. There will be live music, traditional dancing, a crafts fair, food, and more.
Mark your calendars for New Hampshire’s Hillsboro Summer Festival taking place July 10-13, which will bring live entertainment, food, carnival rides, a beer tent, fireworks, and more. Admission is free.

Deals and Steals

Have fun across New Hampshire and beyond this season for less money with the Breathe New Hampshire Fun Pass 2025 book. The book costs $40 and includes coupons for discounts and free admission to amusement parks, water parks, historical sites, museums, zoos, and more. Check out the 2025 discounts.
Heading to Burlington, Vermont? Travelers who buy a Greater Burlington Taste Card can get a buy-one-one-get-one-free entree deal at 15 of the region’s restaurants. The card, which costs $30, is good through Oct. 31.
Catch an outdoor movie for free at Boston Landing. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and relax at a movie on June 12 and 26, July 24, Aug. 14, and Sept. 6. The movies, which range from “Mean Girls” to “Gone With the Wind,” to “Wicked,” begin at 7 p.m. Registration is required.

I’ll leave you with this photo of gorgeous skies over Spectacle Island this past weekend, taken by this newsletter’s editor Zipporah Osei, who was inspired by the Boston Harbor summer programming guide to plan a weekend ferry ride with friends.

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.

Whether you’re traveling this week or planning your next escape, enjoy the journey.