Summer's not over yet! Here are our favorite places and spaces and things to do
James E. KukstisSummer is full of traditions, from big celebrations like the Fourth of July to smaller, everyday treats like heading out for ice cream or catching some sun at the beach. We asked Wicked Local staffers to share which places and activities live permanently on their summer must-do lists.
Lake Quannapowitt
Melissa Russell - Regional Features Editor
It is easy to take Lake Quannapowitt in Wakefield for granted because of its accessibility, right off of Route 128 in Wakefield, but it is in fact, a very special place. “Walking the lake” is a popular activity for those lucky enough to live nearby, and the 3ish-mile, mostly paved route around the lake is popular for running, dog walking, bird watching or just strolling with a large iced coffee from nearby Honey Dew Donuts or a cone from Meletharb ice cream. The tree-lined shores and town common with picturesque bandstand are perfect for lounging with a good book or tossing a Frisbee around. There are a couple of well-maintained playgrounds, a Saturday farmers market, concerts, Fourth of July fireworks and some pretty nice restaurants within walking distance in downtown Wakefield.
Then there’s the lake itself. It is a shimmering beauty, especially at sunrise or sunset. You can fish or rent kayaks and stand up paddleboards through Wakefield Community Boating or learn to sail through Quannapowitt Yacht Club.
Spectacle Island
Spectacle Island is one daytrip we make every summer.
It has a fascinating if not glamorous history and today it’s one of the most popular of the Boston Harbor Islands for walking, swimming, and spectacular views of Boston, and they have bathrooms and snacks.
Go via Boston Harbor Ferry, or if you have your own boat, it’s the only Boston Harbor Island where you can tie up for the day (for a small fee). Slips are first come first serve and fill up fast.
Mt. Moosilauke
Jesse Floyd - Regional Director of Multimedia
Mt. Moosilauke in Benton, New Hampshire means a gentle hike up the Gorge Brook trail to find 360-degree views which can include the Adirondacks in New York. The mountain, just over 4,000 feet, is a bit further from Boston than Monadnock, has a similar summit and about half the people.
More:Hiking goals: Mansfield couple climbing 48 tallest mountains in New Hampshire
Myles Standish State Forest
Ruth Thompson - Community obituaries reporter
I enjoy spending time at the Myles Standish State Forest which touches the towns of Carver, Plymouth and Wareham. There is acre after acre of deep rich dark woods that allows you to disappear from the world for a while. There are also several ponds, cranberry bogs and recreational areas which add to the uniqueness of the area.
Vermont Institute of Natural Science
Margaret Smith - Health reporter
Located at 149 Natures Way in Quechee, Vermont, the institute features a bird rehabilitation center, live bird programs, nature trails, songbird aviary, reptile exhibit, forest exhibit, kids' scavenger hunts, and more.
Salem Willows
Check out Jennie's full write up of her time at Salem Willows here - best not read hungry!
Nine Lives Thrift Shop
Holly Camero - Education reporter
While Fryeburg, Maine is well known for the annual Fryeburg Fair – always the first week in October – if you are traveling to Fryeburg be sure to stop at the Nine Lives Thrift Shop. Here you can find everything from housewares to bed linens to books to games to antiques, all at a discount. Need a blender? Take a look in the kitchen room. If you don’t find one today, be sure to check back as inventory changes daily. Looking for a good book to read while on vacation? The Book Nook likely has just what you are looking for. Need games for the kids? The Kids Room has everything from games to books. Did you forget to pack an extra pair of shorts for yourself or the kids? Head upstairs and check out the thrift shop’s inventory of clothes. They even have a dressing room. Proceeds from the thrift shop benefit the Harvest Hills Animal Shelter.