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Plus: Eight things you should know about navigating Boston's busy summer season, discounted ice cream on the Cape, and more.

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You’re reading the award-winning Scenic Six, Boston.com’s guide to New England travel. Sign up to get hidden gems, travel tips, and must-visit spots in your inbox every week.

Welcome back to Scenic Six.

Summer is nearly here, and it’s going to be Boston’s busiest yet. Between the FIFA World Cup, America 250, and Sail Boston 250, millions of visitors will descend upon the city. 

This week, I’m sharing fun details about the tall ships gliding into Boston Harbor next month. I also have information about the Dead of Summer Music Festival in Vermont, discounted ice cream on the Cape, and more than a dozen great hiking spots across Mass. and N.H.

The tall ships are coming to Boston 

More than 60 ships, representing 20-plus countries, are coming to Boston for Sail Boston 250 from July 11-16 and many hail from New England. The global fleet includes dozens of Class A vessels, which means they are more than 131 feet long. Find out where the ships are from and what activities are planned. 

Boat tours in Maine are causing a splash nationwide

Speaking of boats, two boat tours in Maine just ranked among the best in the nation: Acadian Boat Tours in Bar Harbor and Sea Princess Cruises in Northeast Harbor. Find out where they go, what you’ll see, and how often they run before planning your excursion.

Great hiking spots in Mass. and N.H., including a brand new one

Looking for a satisfying hiking spot this season? Local experts share some of the best hikes in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, and they are full of history, wildlife, and gorgeous views. Or check out the new 91-mile urban hiking trail, Boston Boundless Trail, that just debuted.

Travel tips

• Visiting Boston for the first time this summer? Here are eight navigation tips you should know.

• BermudAir is adding three new destinations from Boston this winter: Belize, Turks and Caicos, and Guatemala City. Find out when service begins.

• Music lovers can check out the Dead of Summer Music Festival in Manchester, Vermont, July 9-12. Here’s the line-up.

Deals and steals

Note: Scenic Six arrives in inboxes Tuesdays at noon. If these deals are reaching you too late, sign up now to be the first in the know.

• Spending time in the Berkshires this weekend? Admission to MASS MoCA in North Adams is free June 13 during MASS MoCA Community Free Day (a $25 savings per adult ticket). 

• If you’re traveling to Cape Cod, Sundae School is offering 76 cent cones and small cups on June 14 in celebration of its 50th anniversary (a nod to the ice cream shop’s opening year, 1976).

• Water enthusiasts planning an outing at Water Country in Portsmouth, N.H. this summer can save up to 45% on admission when selecting a visit date online in advance.

If you’re spending time in Boston, check out 10 free things to do in the city in June. 

I’ll leave you with this photo of the Charles River Esplanade, 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.

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

— Kristi