Deals on Day Trips, Play Trips and More

Despite the possible trickle-down effect of that good old Greek debt crisis, Melrose families still need some kind of getaway now and then. In the interest of getting you out of town, we present two outing ideas, as well as a smattering of other deals and steals. (As always, remember to check with merchants for additional conditions.)
 
Don’t forget you're part of this column too. Let us hear about deals you've seen. Just add them to our comment box, at the bottom of this page. Then come back each week and see what we’ve uncovered together.

Mayor's Holiday Special

Deal: Sometimes that Menino really pulls through for the common folk. Here's an example: Right now, you can score half-price tickets for several Boston holiday shows (The Nutcracker! Holiday Pops!) via the MayorsHolidaySpecial.com Web site, up and running through Jan. 12. (Cross your fingers that the date you want is included.)

Good through: Jan. 12

CrossFit Route 1

Deal: Been curious about CrossFit? This may be the week to find out more. In partnership with the Sportaholics.com, CrossFit Route 1 is offering two CrossFit classes for only $20, instead of the usual $50—but for this week only. Hey, your muscles like bargains too, you know.

Good through: Sunday, Nov. 13 (go to Sportaholics.com for deal)

Garden Nails & Spa

Deal: Flip-flop season may be over, but easy-to-slip-off-ballet-flats-with-no-socks season is going strong. Get yourself a hearty November pedicure and manicure for only $39, Monday through Thursday at the Garden Nails & Spa in Saugus (the one in the Michael's-Panera plaza, off Route 1 South). We suggest you ask for Ben; the man is a master of foot massage.

Good through: No expiration currently

Amtrak Downeaster

Deal: We'll be the first to admit that a trip to coastal Maine is not the first thing to spring to mind when imagining late-fall family adventures. Yet maybe it should. Right now, the Boston-to-Portland locomotive is free on Sundays for kids (and half-price for kids all other days). Further incentive necessary? Certain trips are buy-one-get-one free for adults. Some buying restrictions (e.g., buy three days in advance) do apply, so be sure to check the Amtrak Web site behore heading to North Station.

Good through: Kids' Sunday deal expires June 2012; adult deal runs through December 2011

Solar Panel Jewelry

Local Etsy Deal of the Week: Now this is what we call renewable: Medford-based Etsy shop owner Jonathan Hunt has established quite a niche business for himself, using fragments of actual solar panels to craft everything from tie tacks to rings to necklaces. Turns out that solar panels are much more attractive--and colorful--than you might expect, as with Hunt's sterling silver cuff links (order them silver-plated instead for $35 less) or hexagon ring. (Hunt and his wife Alicia also run a nifty, frequently updated "easy greening for families" lifestyle blog; check it out at Green Lifestyle Consulting.) If you find something that suits your fancy, use the coupon code MELROSEPATCH for a lovely 10 percent off discount.

Good through: Monday, Nov. 14