Five New England Summer Excursions Without Filling the Tank
New England is a treasure trove of summer adventures, offering a plethora of experiences that won't leave you broke or stranded at a gas station. From the thrill of catching a minor league baseball game to the serenity of a beach day, the region has something for every type of traveler. Let's dive into five unique and captivating excursions that will make your summer unforgettable.
1. Baseball and Beach Bliss in Worcester and Old Orchard Beach
The WooSox Experience
Worcester, Massachusetts, is home to the Worcester Red Sox, a Triple-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. Polar Park, their state-of-the-art ballpark, is a gem for baseball enthusiasts. The park boasts a large concourse area, offering views nearly as good as those from the seats closer to the action. The WooSox have a fun, family-friendly atmosphere with mascots like Smiley Ball and Woofster the WonderDog. It's a treat to see the prospects on the rise, playing alongside players on rehab assignments. The local eats, including George's Coney Island hot dogs, Table Talk pie, and Polar soft drinks, add to the charm. The MBTA Commuter Rail makes it easy to get there, with a 15- to 20-minute walk to Polar Park.
Old Orchard Beach, Maine
Just a short train ride away, Old Orchard Beach is a summer paradise. The soundtrack of the beach is a delightful mix of gently breaking waves, happy children, and seagulls circling for French fries. The beach is nearly deserted, offering a peaceful escape. Palace Playland, with its roller coasters and arcade, adds to the fun. The Downeaster train from North Station makes it easy to get there, with adults paying around $27 each way. The beach is free, and Palace Playland offers an unlimited ride day pass for $52.50 on weekdays and $54.50 on weekends and holidays.
2. Exploring Historic Portsmouth
Strawbery Banke Museum
Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a treasure trove of history, and Strawbery Banke Museum is its crown jewel. The museum chronicles over three centuries of life in the Puddle Dock neighborhood, from colonial times to the early 20th century. The homes and gardens are a feast for the eyes, with architectural details that will delight anyone interested in restoration. The museum does an excellent job of narrating the stories of the people who lived here, from early craftspeople and shopkeepers to wealthy merchants and sea captains. The Warner House, one of the oldest brick residences in northern New England, is a standout, with fascinating murals in the front hall and stairwell.
The Warner House and Langdon House
The Warner House, built in 1716-17, is a must-see, with guided tours available on Thursdays through Sundays. The Langdon House, built in 1784, was once the home of Governor John Langdon and is a testament to the wealth and status of the early wealthy class in Portsmouth. The homes are open for tours, with the Warner House costing $10 for adults and $5 for children, and the Langdon House costing $15 for adults and $7 for children.
3. Art and Light on Cape Ann
Cape Ann Museum
The Cape Ann Museum is celebrating its 150th anniversary with a bang. After 20 months of renovation, the museum reopens with redesigned galleries showcasing Cape Ann's fishing and granite quarrying history. But it's the art collection that truly shines, featuring artists like Fitz Henry Lane, Winslow Homer, and Edward Hopper, all drawn to the extraordinary light of Cape Ann. The museum reopens with a blockbuster exhibition, "Avery, Gottlieb & Rothko: By the Sea," featuring three of the greatest modern Cape Ann painters.
Art and Nature on Cape Ann
The exhibition explores the work of Milton Avery, Mark Rothko, and Adolph Gottlieb, who spent parts of three decades summering and painting together on Cape Ann. The commuter rail from North Station to Gloucester is a convenient and affordable way to get there, with a 10-minute walk to the museum. The museum offers timed tickets for the exhibition plus general admission, with adults paying $25 and seniors and Cape Ann residents paying $20.
4. Cycling the Cape Cod Canal
CapeFLYER and the Canal
The CapeFLYER, a weekend train service between Boston and Cape Cod, offers a unique opportunity to explore the Cape Cod Canal. The train ride is free for bicycles, and the canal bike path is a paved, roughly 7-mile trail shared by dog walkers, strollers, joggers, and bicyclists. The path offers stunning views of the ducks and herons, small boats, and massive barges. The Bourne Historical Society operates the recreated 1627 Aptucxet Trading Post, and the Cape Cod Canal Visitor Center provides insights into the canal's construction and maritime traffic management.
Exploring the Canal
The Cape Cod Canal Visitor Center is a must-visit, with the retired patrol boat Renier as its largest exhibit. The visitor center is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is free. Just beyond the visitor center, Town Neck Beach in Sandwich offers a perfect spot for a picnic and some sun. The CapeFLYER operates one round-trip from South Station to Cape Cod on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with adults paying $35 and seniors and persons with disabilities paying $17.50.
5. A Summer of Discovery in New England
These five excursions offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of New England, where history, art, and nature intertwine. From the thrill of baseball and the serenity of the beach to the allure of historic homes and the captivating light of Cape Ann, there's something for everyone. So, pack your bags, grab your friends and family, and embark on a summer of discovery in New England. You won't regret it, and you won't break the bank either!
