Scenic Six
Plus: Your Massachusetts apple picking guide and the best corn maze in America.
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New England is such a special place during the fall season, full of gorgeous foliage and outdoor fun.
I recently explored a historic garden with my daughter at the Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens in North Andover. The beautiful Trustees of Reservations property was the summer home of Helen Stevens Coolidge and her husband John Gardner Coolidge from 1914 to 1962 (Coolidge was a descendant of President Thomas Jefferson and Isabella Stewart Gardner’s nephew). It’s a very enjoyable — and affordable — activity: admission to the garden is free.
This week, I’m sharing what makes “second summer” so special on the Cape, as well as info about apple picking in Massachusetts, a Maine farm just named the best corn maze and pumpkin patch in America, Nantucket Restaurant Week, the new African American Museum of Rhode Island, and more.
Welcome to ‘second summer’ on Cape Cod
Imagine the beauty and charm of Cape Cod but without the crowds. It’s called “second summer” and it’s happening right now. I chatted with Cape residents about the best way visitors can enjoy it. Check out what they had to say.
Your Massachusetts apple picking guide
One of my favorite fall traditions is going apple picking with the family. If it’s one of yours too, check out this handy Massachusetts apple picking guide that breaks down the cost, activities, and food available at dozens of orchards across the state this season.
A Maine farm has the best corn maze and pumpkin patch in America
Treworgy Family Orchards in Levant, Maine has the best corn maze and pumpkin patch in America, according to USA Today readers. This year, the farm’s corn maze design commemorates the 250th anniversary of America. Find out what’s happening on the farm this season.
Travel tips
- The Trustees of Reservations, a nonprofit preservation and conservation organization in Massachusetts, is hosting many Halloween-themed events in October. Check out the schedule.
- Visit the new African American Museum of Rhode Island, the state’s first museum dedicated to Black history. The inaugural exhibit is “Welcome to the Neighborhood: Mapping Black Providence 1940s—1970s” and the museum is open Thursday through Sunday.
Deals and steals
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- Raffles Boston is celebrating its third anniversary with a limited-time anniversary special: a two-night stay in a deluxe room for $915 — a rate inspired by the hotel’s Sept. 15 opening date. The offer is available from Sept. 15-29 (for 15 days) and valid for stays between Nov. 19 and March 31, 2027.
- Need ski gear? Head to the 55th Annual Ski and Snowboard Sale at Pats Peak in Henniker, N.H. on Nov. 1 for new and used ski equipment and clothing. What’s more, shoppers can get 20% off items in the mountain’s ski shop and enjoy an Oktoberfest celebration.
If you are visiting the city this month, check out 10 free things to do in Boston in September.
I’ll leave you with this photo I took at the Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens.
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.
— Kristi
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