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CONCORD FOOD COOP 24 ¼ S. Main St. Concord, NH 52 Newport Road New London, NH

SUNFLOWER NATURAL FOODS 390 South Main St. Laconia, NH

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Photo above and on the cover of treats at Finesse Pastries. Photo by Sid Ceaser.

HOW SWEET IT IS TO LIVE IN NEW HAMPSHIRE.When Hippo holds its annual readers’

poll, we ask people to tell us about their favorite things about life in the Granite State, from favorite salon and ski hill to favorite place to get dessert. You can find our March 24 issue with all of those results (as well as past Best Of issues, for even more reader recommendations) at hippopress.com.

In this magazine, we’re taking a deeper look at some of those “Best” categories. You’ll see not just the winners but 10 and sometimes 15 of the top vote-getters in categories such as Best New Eatery, Best Pizza (dine in) and Best State Park. In all of these categories, grabbing a top spot is high praise — tens of thousands of readers vote in our poll and oodles of entries from across the state get a mention.

Here, then, are 151 cool things about New Hampshire — 151 places to eat, shop, play or just hang out. And, best of all, these cool things are chosen by you, Hippo readers. So, what are your plans for this weekend, this evening or your next staycation? Let us recommend some of the “best” ideas...

Best of 2016 A publication of the Hippo

Published by QOL Publications 49 Hollis St., Manchester, NH, 03101603-625-1855(First copy is free; second copy costs $1)

PublisherJody Reesejreese@hippopress.com

Executive EditorAmy Diazadiaz@hippopress.com

Managing EditorMeghan Siegler

Copy edited byLisa Parsons

AdvertisingFor questions regarding advertising, call Charlene Cesarini 603-625-1855, ext. 26

Editorial DesignAshley McCarty

ProductionEmma ConticKatie DeRosaHaylie Zebrowski

Reported byAllie GinwalaAngie SykenyKelly SennottRyan Lessard

PhotosAll photos by Sid Ceaser (ceaserphotography.com) except on pages 50, 62, 73 and 81.

Photos on page 62 of Mine Falls Park in Nashua are by Erika Follansbee (erikafollansbee.com).

IN THIS ISSUE6 New eateries12 Pizza worth staying for20 NH is wine country26 Dine on dessert32 A good cup of joe40 Farm fresh fun50 Farmers markets52 Flowers on display58 State parks62 More outdoor fun64 Bookstores and comic book havens70 Where to find cool tunes76 Hit the links82 Seasons of New Hampshire

4 BEST OF 2016 | INDEX

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New Hampshire welcomed a whole host of new eateries to its burgeoning food scene last year, delighting diners looking for new places to eat out. Some are serving locally inspired classic cuisines while others take a creative route in designing the menus.

Whether you’re craving buffalo tofu, a steak and seafood dinner or a gourmet burger and milkshake, there are plenty of new places to entice your taste buds.

BEST NEW EATERYTOP 10

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1. THE FOUNDRY RESTAURANT | BEST OF THE BEST50 Commercial St., Manchester, 836-1925, foundrynh.comThe Foundry opened its doors last August as the state’s largest certified farm-to-table restaurant, sourcing fish, honey, cheese, meat and more from around 30 local producers. Owned by local businessman, inventor and entrepreneur Dean Kamen, the Foundry serves a seasonally inspired menu of land, sea, pasta and grain dishes, along with lighter fare of soups, sandwiches, flatbreads, salads and a cheese and charcuterie plate. Open Monday from 4 to 10 p.m. and Tuesday through Saturday from 4 to 11 p.m., it also offers a Sunday Riverside brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and features local musicians in the bar and lounge on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

2. PIG TALE | BEST OF NASHUA449 Amherst St., Nashua, 864-8740, pigtalepizza.comLast June, Pig Tale brought its wood-fired oven favorites to Nashua, with a menu of pizzas, plates and snacks emphasising local ingredients and featuring popular items like the deviled eggs, pork belly and shrimp and grits. Regular trips to the farmers market fill the menu, which changes based on what’s fresh and available. Pig Tale is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and from 4:30 p.m. to close (closing times vary) and Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. It hosts beer and wine dinners throughout the year.

3. FUNKTION SPIRITS & SPOONFULSBEST OF MANCHESTER931 Elm St., Manchester, 782-5365, funktionspirits.comFunktion made its mark on Manchester’s downtown food scene in September with the goal of “bringing the art of dining back to life.” The clean food menu features bites and sides, small plates and big plates that give diners the choice to build or share a meal. Look for unique dishes like buffalo tofu, grilled cheese and bacon, spicy noodle bowl and monkfish ratatouille. Funktion is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday brunch is served from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. featuring a bloody Mary bar. Enjoy live local music on Thursday nights.

Photos of The Foundry by Sid Ceaser.

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4. THE LOCAL MOOSE CAFE124 Queen City Ave., Manchester, 232-2669, thelocalmoosecafe.comCentered on local and sustainable food, The Local Moose Cafe came to Manchester in September, offering diverse soup and sandwich choices (check out the bahn mi and very curry chicken), some made with spinach, arugula and leafy greens grown in its own greenhouse. Pastry options include muffins, scones, gluten-free and vegan options and the popular house-made doughnuts (maple bacon is a favorite) available Friday through Sunday. The cafe is open Tuesday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

5. VIBES GOURMET BURGERS | BEST OF CONCORD25 S. Main St., Concord, 856-8671, vibesgourmetburgers.comDowntown Concord welcomed a new burger experience in November when Vibes Gourmet Burgers opened along with Buza Dairy Bar. The menu features unique burgers like The Unusual (sliced apple, Vermont cheddar, crispy bacon strips, lettuce, pickled jalapenos and creamy peanut butter) and Chop House (sauteed mushrooms, caramelized onions, tomato, baby Romaine lettuce, creamy blue cheese spread) along with specialty fries, fried green beans, and salads. Vibes is open Monday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.

A cocktail (at left) and a peek at the bar area (right) at The Foundry.

1010 BEST OF 2016 | BEST NEW EATERY

6. THIRSTY MOOSE TAPHOUSE795 Elm St., Manchester, 792-2337, thirstymoosetaphouse.com/manchesterThirsty Moose Taphouse opened its third location in November, bringing its from-scratch kitchen and American bar-and-grill cuisine to downtown Manchester. Known for its chicken wings and house-smoked meats, Thirsty Moose has 100 draft lines with local, national and international beers, plus 50 large-bottle bombers of rarer brews. Trivia night is held every Monday with a different brewery sponsoring each month, and beer dinners are in the works for the fall. It’s open Monday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m., and Sunday for brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

7. 1OAK ON ELM1087 Elm St., Manchester, 206-5599, facebook.com/1oakonelmThe casual fine dining upstairs portion of the two-concept restaurant (also home to The Dugout sports bar) opened on New Year’s Eve. The menu puts a spin on traditional New England favorites, taking dishes folks are familiar with and creating them with a new presentation. This spring, the menu will also take on a celebration of French cuisine. Enjoy paint night at the restaurant the second Wednesday of every month and live entertainment Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Lakes Region Big Band, a 20-piece band, is the staple of Thursday night’s entertainment. Open Tuesday and Wednesday 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Thursday through Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m.

8. FRATELLO’S ITALIAN GRILLE194 Main St., Nashua, 889-2022, fratellos.comThe Fratello’s family of restaurants welcomed its newest member last summer when the downtown Nashua location opened in July. The completely renovated space features a wood-fired pizza kitchen and menu favorites like Fratello’s meatballs — the signature recipe topped with marinara and Parmesan — and Seafood Sophia. Open daily for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., for dinner from 4 p.m. Enjoy various entertainment throughout the week.

At left and on opposite page: Foundry eats. Above, Foundry General Manager Nate Carney.

11BEST OF 2016 | BEST NEW EATERY 11

9. CANOE RESTAURANT AND TAVERN216 S. River Road, Bedford, 935-8070, magicfoodsrestaurantgroup.comMagic Foods Restaurant Group welcomed its newest member and second Canoe Restaurant and Tavern in February 2015. The steaks and seafood menu features a host of land and sea options from starters to specials, along with signature items like the chips (homemade chips with blue cheese sauce, green onion and blue cheese crumbles) and the sweet and sour calamari (Thai sweet and sour sauce, chili paste and scallions). Open for lunch Monday to Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. (lighter fare menu until 4:30 p.m.); dinner Monday to Wednesday, 4:30 to 9 p.m., Thursday to Saturday 4:30 to 10 p.m., Sunday 3 to 9 p.m.

10. QUEEN’S PUB & GRILLE 641 Elm St., Manchester, 622-2979, thequeenspub.comThis British-themed restaurant opened last October, bringing a menu of traditional British-pub-inspired food to the area such as fried Cumberland-style sausage, bangers and mashed and pan-seared Scottish salmon along with more than 45 beer selections from England, Germany, Ireland, Scotland, Belgium and the U.S. Hours are Tuesday and Wednesday from 3:30 to 11:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m., Thursday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Enjoy karaoke on Tuesdays, trivia night and ladies night on Wednesdays, open mike on Thursdays, and NASCAR Sundays, plus football nights and other live entertainment.

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BEST DINE IN PIZZAN ew Hampshire has the most pizza places per capita in the country, so we

know you like pizza. Whether you prefer New York style, Greek style or Italian style, southern New Hampshire has a seemingly endless selection

of pizza restaurants, each with its own unique take on the classic pizza pie. From relatively new businesses to stalwart kitchens that have been rolling dough for nearly 60 years, here are the top 15 best pizza places to dine in.

TOP 15

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1. 900 DEGREES | BEST OF THE BEST50 Dow St., Manchester, 641-0900, 900degrees.comSpecializing in pizza made the way it was originally made in Naples, 900 Degrees owes its name to the average temperature of its ovens: 900 degrees Fahrenheit. Its gourmet pizza is produced using wood-fired brick ovens, an authentic dough recipe and fresh Mediterranean ingredients. Try their popular Bella Cosa pizza, made with roasted garlic cream sauce, grana padano, rosemary ham and prosciutto, or the hard-to-find-elsewhere Capricciosa pizza, with house tomato sauce, grana padano, mozzarella, olives, mushrooms and artichoke hearts. Starting at 5 p.m. every Tuesday, 900 Degrees offers a 2-for-1 pizza promotion. It is located in Manchester’s historic Millyard and offers an outdoor deck for dining al fresco. It’s open Sunday through Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday until 10 p.m.

2. PIZZA MAN | BEST OF MANCHESTER254 W. River Road, Hooksett, 626-7499, thepizzamandelivers.comEvery pizza made at Pizza Man is hand-tossed and cooked to perfection directly over the bricks of its stone ovens. Try its signature pizza, The Pizza Man, made with sausage, ground beef, mushroom, onion and lots of pepperoni. Pizza Man also offers traditional subs like steak and cheese and meatball and a selection of pasta-packed dinner entrees. It’s open Monday through Wednesday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday through Saturday until 10 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 9 p.m.

Photos at 900 Degrees by Sid Ceaser. Pizza making (above) and pizza (at left).

Readers Picks

WINNER

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4. VINNIE’S PIZZARIA | BEST OF CONCORD200 Main St., Concord, 224-7727, find them on FacebookCelebrating 58 years of serving the downtown Concord area, Vinnie’s is a cultural mainstay for longtime locals. They specialize in Italian-style pizzas and make their dough and sauce fresh every day. Their pepperoni and hamburger is probably the most popular; they also offer the unique Vinnie’s Special, which has onions, peppers, salami, pepperoni, mushrooms, hamburger, sausage and extra cheese. It’s open Monday from 4 to 9 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 3 to 9 p.m. Hours are subject to change depending on the season.

3. ROMANO’S PIZZA27 Colby Road, Litchfield, 424-0500, romanosnh.comA pizza shop with a more than 20-year history in the area, Romano’s prides itself on making a good, homemade pizza. Try its specialty barbecue chicken or buffalo chicken pizza. Romano’s also offers a wide selection of American and Italian dinners. This year, the owners are putting together a brand new brewery in the basement and hope to add their house-brewed beers to their menu this summer. Once a month, Romano’s hosts a Vinyl Day where they break out the turntable to play old records. It’s open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., on Friday and Saturday until 11 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 9 p.m.

5. CONSTANTLY PIZZA39 S. Main St., Concord, 224-9366, constantlypizza.netThe Constants pride themselves on using freshly sliced vegetables, meats and cheeses, homemade sauce and dough made from scratch daily. Constantly Pizza specializes in Italian-style pizza and offers a wide range of staple pizzas and toppings. They even make two pizzas that weigh more than five pounds each: the meat-heavy The Capone and the meatless The Elliott Ness, each with marinara sauce and seven toppings. You can also get homemade cannoli, tiramisu and more from the famous Mike’s Pastries in Boston. It’s open Monday through Thursday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday until 11 p.m. and Sunday noon to 9 p.m.

6. CHELBY’S PIZZA & SUBS284 Mammoth Road, Manchester, 669-4329, find them on FacebookA Greek-style pizza joint with a bar lounge, Chelby’s has long been located on Manchester’s East Side near the Elliot Hospital. Try their pizzas, all made to order with prices based on the number of toppings, or a hot sub or a sirloin tips dinner. They host Paint Nite events about every six weeks. They’re open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday noon to 9 p.m.

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7. 900 DEGREESBrickyard Square, 24 Calef Highway, Epping, 734-2809, 900degrees.comThe No. 1 dine-in pizza restaurant has a second location in Epping. It offers the same menu and specials as the original Manchester location. The Epping location is near the O’Neil’s Cinema. It’s open Sunday through Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday until 10 p.m.

8. PASTA LOFT RESTAURANT | BEST OF NASHUA241 Union Square, Milford, 672-2270, pastaloft.comLocated on the oval in the heart of Milford, Pasta Loft is known for its quality pizzas and bustling nightlife scene. It specializes in brick oven pizza and offers an array of Italian staple entrees, seafood and American eats. There is live music on Fridays and Saturdays in the Brickhouse performance room. You can dine in Monday through Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday through Saturday until 9:30 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 8:30 p.m. Pizzeria hours go later.

Pizzas, ready to eat (at left) and being born (above), at 900 Degrees.

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9. LA FESTA BRICK & BREW PIZZERIA300 Central Ave., Dover, 743-4100, lafestabrickandbrew.comDiners here can eat while watching food get made. La Festa specializes in hand-tossed, traditional New York, deep-dish Sicilian and thin-crust brick oven pizzas. Try the Garlic Knot pizza with garlic knots braided around the crust, made New York-style with fresh tomatoes, basil, olive oil and Parmesan cheese. They also offer a selection of wines and draft and bottled beers. They’re open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday until 11 p.m. and Sundays noon to 10 p.m.

10. KINSLEY HOUSE OF PIZZA118 Kinsley St., Nashua, 882-0554, kinsleyhouseofpizza.comThe family-owned Kinsley House of Pizza makes pizza to order and offers several specialty pizzas as well. They make their sauce and dough fresh every day. Cheese-lovers can try the mac-n-cheese pizza, and daring diners can indulge in the Firecracker, made with crispy chicken, diced jalapenos and ranch dressing. It’s open Tuesday through Thursday and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday until 9 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m.

900 Degrees gets its name from the average temperature of its ovens (shown at left).

At right, a look inside the eatery.

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11. PAPPY’S PIZZA & FAMILY RESTAURANT1531 Elm St., Manchester, 623-3131, pappyspizzaonline.comPappy’s is one of the oldest pizza joints in the Queen City, having opened 35 years ago, and the second-generation owners claim their pizza recipe is about 60 years old. Co-owner Kasha St. Jean says the recipe was first used by the now-closed Pizza By Charles, which for years had been the only pizza place in Manchester. Specializing in Greek-style pizzas, Pappy’s makes pizza to order, and their specialty pizzas largely incorporate ingredients used in their popular hot sub offerings like the Steak Bomb pizza. It’s open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

12. TILTON HOUSE OF PIZZA298 Main St., Tilton, 286-7181, find them on FacebookLocated in Tilton’s historic downtown, the Tilton House of Pizza specializes in Greek pizza styles. Try their loaded house special or their barbecue chicken pizza. They also offer sandwiches, burgers and subs, fresh haddock dinners, gluten-free pizza and a selection of beers and wines. They’re open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday until 11 p.m. and are closed Tuesdays.

13. PIG TALE449 Amherst St., Nashua, 864-8740, pigtalepizza.comA new restaurant featuring local ingredients and gourmet pizza, Pig Tale was recently featured on The Phantom Gourmet. Its pizzas and entrees feature farm-to-table ingredients, and its signature cocktails are made from locally distilled liquors. Try the Pig Tale pizza, made with pork shoulder, bacon, sausage, fontina, tomatoes and pickled onion. It’s open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch, and from 4:30 p.m. to close, and Sunday noon to 8 p.m.

14. C.C. TOMATOES209 Fisherville Road, Concord, 753-4450, cctomatoes.comFirst opened in 2005, C.C. Tomatoes specializes in brick oven pizza and Italian food. The “C.C.” in the name is from the names of owner Doug Dow’s two children, Corbin and Campbell. Try their Rustica pizza, made with grilled chicken, roasted peppers, tomato sauce and mozzarella balls. C.C. Tomatoes also offers a long list of wines that can be ordered by glass or by the bottle. It’s open Monday through Thursday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday until 11 p.m.

15. ALLEY CAT PIZZERIA486 Chestnut St., Manchester, 669-4533, alleycatpizzerianh.comA hidden gem of growing popularity in downtown Manchester, Alley Cat caters mostly to the take-out and delivery clientele, but there are a few seats for folks to dine in and enjoy their hand-tossed and thin-crust pizza. They specialize in New York-style pizzas. Try The Black Cat, made with Cajun chicken and red onion. They also offer calzones, hot subs and buffalo chicken tenders. Alley Cat is open for dining Monday through Thursday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and until 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

900 Degrees owner Priscilla Lane-Rondeau.

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O ver the past 20 years, New Hampshire’s winery scene has grown like a vine, from the first tiny operation in South Hampton to now dozens of wineries. Here are some of the very best in the state, many of which grow their own grapes in rustic vineyards, host weddings

and fancy dinners and push the boundaries to come up with delicious, original wines.

BEST WINERYTOP 10

1. LABELLE WINERY | BEST OF THE BEST345 Route 101, Amherst, 627-9898, labellewinerynh.comSince its opening in 2012, LaBelle Winery has grown by leaps and bounds, with an expansive array of more than 30 wines both dry and sweet, many featuring New Hampshire produce. Its Granite State Red wine blends the French hybrid red grape marechal foch with ripe blueberries. LaBelle also produces a line of seasonings, coffees, maple syrups and jams based on some of its popular wines. It had its first grape harvest at its on-site vineyard in 2015 and hopes to begin releasing wine varietals made from those grapes in the coming years. For LaBelle’s current offerings, it gets all of its grapes from the Finger Lakes region of New York. The winery recently invested in a high-end filtration system to produce a higher-quality flavor and mouthfeel. Expansion is planned for a 48-acre “artisan village” across the street to feature a chocolate shop, distillery, brewery, inn and land for more grapevines. Wine tastings are available in The Bistro restaurant at the bar or tables while the winery is open, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. It’s open Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. You’ll pay $8 for a sampling of five wines or $13 for 10 wines. Guided tours are available on weekends from noon to 5 p.m. The winery also features an art gallery.

2. FLAG HILL WINERY & DISTILLERY | RUNNER-UP297 N. River Road, Lee, 659-2949, flaghill.comWhen the doors to this winery opened in 1996, it had only four kinds of wine to offer. Today, Flag Hill’s on-site vineyard grows six varieties of grapes and all of its wines are produced and bottled at its location in Lee. The winery proudly makes wines from the types of grapes that can be grown in the local region and offers popular varietals such as De Chaunac, Niagara, Cayuga and La Crescent. Flag Hill also produces a range of fruit wines and award-winning liquors from its distillery, which in 2004 became the first to begin operating in the state since Prohibition. Its tasting room is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Photos of LaBelle Winery by Sid Ceaser. Menu & directions available online.www.900degrees.com

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It’s Hotin Here!

Best of NH Winner 9 years running

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Readers Picks

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(603) 734-2656

22 BEST OF 2016 | BEST WINERY

3. FULCHINO VINEYARD | HONORABLE MENTION187 Pine Hill Road, Hollis, 438-5984, fulchinovineyard.comInspired by his Italian grandfather, from whom he inherited a wine press, co-owner Al Fulchino started Fulchino Vineyard with his wife in 2006. There they produce signature red blends like Mirabella, a velvety and full-bodied wine with notes of blackcurrants, and Bianco, which is a white related to a riesling with notes of crisp apple and pear. They also offer a few fruit wines made from peaches and strawberries. Fulchino grows 85 percent of the grapes it uses on its vineyard. The land is also home to a nursery that grows annuals, perennials, ornamental grasses, trees and shrubs, and they raise Angus and Hereford cattle for beef. The winery is open daily from April through October. In November and December it is open from Thursday through Sunday, and from January through March the winery is open on the weekends. Hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

4. ZORVINO VINEYARDS226 Main St., Sandown, 887-8463, zorvino.comAs with so many family-owned vineyards, Zorvino started as a hobby. It began with 150 cold-climate vines planted in the 80-acre area of Sandown, and today there are about 2,000 vines on site. Zorvino is known for its off-dry fruit wines and unusual vegetable wines made from pumpkins, beets or rhubarb. Among its most popular wines are the pinot grigio and the sangiovese, and the peach wine is flying off the shelves, according to Zorvino’s wine director. About 25 to 35 percent of the grapes used in its wines are grown in its own vineyard. The tasting room is open seven days a week year-round from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

5. MOONLIGHT MEADERY23 Londonderry Road, Londonderry, 216-2162,moonlightmeadery.comUnlike traditional wine, mead is an ancient beverage produced from honey and can often be blended with various fruits to make melomels. Moonlight Meadery, which started production in 2010, offers sweet selections from pyments made with grapes and cysers made with apples to its award-winning Utopian #9. Moonlight’s products are available in 33 additional U.S. states, Japan and Australia. Visit the Londonderry meadery and try a flight of four meads for $8 or seven meads for $13. You can sample their Utopian mead (worth $125 per bottle) for $10. A tour costs $10 or you can get a tour with a flight of seven mead samples for $20. Moonlight Meadery is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Fridays, when it’s open until 7 p.m. It’s open Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

At left, LaBelle Winery function space.

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6. HERMIT WOODS WINERY72 Main St., Meredith, 253-7968, hermitwoods.comThe wine produced at Hermit Woods is defined by an attention to detail and a handcrafted combination of locally sourced fruit, honey and flowers. It was originally located in the Sanbornton woods once occupied by famous hermit Joseph Plummer. All the wines are vegan with the exception of the meads. None use grapes, and all the fruits used are from New Hampshire, Maine and Vermont. Try its signature Heirloom Crabapple, an award-winning wine made from whole heirloom dolgo crabapples, or the Petite Blue, a Burgundy-style blueberry wine with some of the characteristics of pinot noir. Wine tasting is $6 for a 12-ounce glass for five different wines or $8 for a 19-ounce glass for six different wines. Learn about their unique barrel aging process with a $20 tour, which includes wine tasting. Hermit Woods is open every Sunday, Monday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays until 6 p.m.

7. SWEET BABY VINEYARD260 Stage Road, Hampstead, 347-1738, sweetbabyvineyard.comA family business started in 2008 by Lewis Eaton, the winemaker, and his wife Stacey, the office manager, Sweet Baby Vineyard grew into a boutique winery winning several international awards. Their handcrafted apple-cranberry wine is made from 100 percent locally sourced apples fermented together with the cranberries. Having recently moved to an eight-acre farm in Hampstead, the Eatons are planting 1,500 new plant vines this year. Year-round tastings are $3 per person for a sample flight of up to six varieties and you can purchase a $5 souvenir glass. They are open Thursdays and Fridays from noon to 4 p.m. and weekends from noon to 5 p.m. Tastings end at 3:30 p.m. on weekdays and 4:30 p.m. on weekends.

8. JEWELL TOWNE VINEYARDS183 Whitehall Road, South Hampton, 394-0600,jewelltownevineyards.comThe first commercial winery in New Hampshire, licensed in 1994, started with six grapevines planted by Dr. Peter Oldak, an emergency room physician, in 1982. Today, Jewell Towne Vineyards boasts more than 60 varieties of grapes and more than 150 medals from national and international competitions. Besides its own grapes, Jewell Towne also uses grapes from the Finger Lakes area of New York. Famous for its non-oaked chardonnay with notes of citrus, the winery also offers unique rosés like its steuben and a seyval with hints of passionfruit and nectarine. It’s open weekdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and weekends until 5 p.m.

9. COPPER BEECH WINERY146 Londonderry Tpke., Hooksett, 400-2595, copperbeechwinery.comDespite being a relatively young winery, having opened its tasting room in 2014, it boasts winning awards within two months of opening. A small boutique winery in the woods near scenic Lake Massabesic, Copper Beech prides itself on making small batches of handcrafted dry fruit wines aged at least one year before bottling. Its Bold Blackberry wine made from 100 percent New Hampshire-grown blueberries won the bronze medal at the 2014 Eastern States Exposition. Also try its Liquid Sunshine, an ultra dry mead from locally sourced honey with notes of wildflowers. Copper Beech will reopen for the season at the end of May, after which it will hold regular tasting hours on weekends from noon to 4 p.m. until Christmas.

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24 BEST OF 2016 | BEST WINERY

10. GILMANTON WINERY AND RESTAURANT528 Meadow Pond Road, Gilmanton, 267-8251, gilmantonwinery.comLocated on the nine-acre farm that once belonged to author Grace Metalious of Peyton Place fame, the winery produces more than a dozen wines from grapes grown on site and beyond, including Peyton Place Rosé and Green Apple Riesling. The farm started as an alpaca farm, which is still in operation. They grow six different types of grapes and some of their wines also use South American grapes. This year, Gilmanton Winery won two medals at the Finger Lakes International Wine Contest. The winery is open Thursday to Saturday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (tasting ends at 5 p.m.) and Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (tasting starts at 1 p.m.). The winery restaurant offers brunch on Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., lunch on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and special five-course dinner events once a month.

LaBelle Winery owner and cellar master Cesar Arboleda and owner and winemaker Amy LaBelle.

ManchesterArea’s Best

SeafoodRestaurant!

Hooked • 110 Hanover St. Manchester606-1189 • HookedNH.com

Ignite • 100 Hanover St. Manchester644-0064 • Ignitebng.com 107034

Ann, Melissa, & the entire Hooked on Ignite crew want to thank their family,

friends & guests for a terrific year and invite you to come back

for Lunch, Happy Hour, Dinner & Late Night.

Home & Garden Furniture Accessories • Estate Jewelery

176 Route 101 Bedford, NH | 488-2488Open: Tues, Wed, Fri & Sat 10-5 Thur 10-6 (closed Sun, Mon)

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Open Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm; Sunday 10am-3pmbedfordvillageinn.com | Two Olde Bedford Way, Bedford NH | 603.472.2001

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One of New England’s Not-To-Be Missed Restaurants and Best Martinis in New England - Yankee Magazine’s Travel Guide To New England.

Best Chef, Best Restaurant Overall and Best Date Place in Manchester - Hippo Press Newspaper. Diner’s Choice Best of New Hampshire - Open Table.

Best Martinis in New Hampshire 8 years in a row - New Hampshire Magazine. Best Restaurant, Southern New Hampshire - Taste of the Seacoast Magazine.

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BEST DESSERTS

S et your sweet tooth free exploring the many dessert options New Hampshire has to offer. From a gourmet French patisserie to a shop filled with cupcakes, local

dessert makers are serving up a selection of classic cakes, pies and cookies as well as European pastries, whoopie pies and even an edible chocolate bag filled with cake and berries.

TOP 15

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1. FINESSE PASTRIES | BEST OF THE BEST968 Elm St., Manchester, 232-6592, finessepastries.comEnjoy a taste of Paris in downtown Manchester at this gourmet French patisserie serving made-from-scratch palmiers, eclairs, madeleines and an array of gateaux — French cakes — such as absolute, opera, success, and the popular coffee & cognac, made with mousseline, almond dacquoise and meringue sticks. Finesse offers baking and cooking classes so folks can learn the art of making French macarons, breads, puff pastry, croissants and brioche from classically French-trained pastry chef and owner Chelsey Erickson and her staff.

3. THE BLACK FOREST CAFE | BEST OF NASHUA212 Route 101, Amherst, 672-0500, theblackforestcafe.comWhether you’re in the mood for Dutch apple pie, old-fashioned coconut cake, shortbread cookies or coffee cakes, the Black Forest Cafe has something for every sweet tooth. Along with their cookies and sweet bites (find cookies, cupcakes, bars and whoopie pies) and cakes, tarts and pies (find fruit tarts, cheesecake, fruit and chocolate pies), they serve lunch and dinner, Sunday breakfast and craft cocktails.

4. FREDERICK’S PASTRIES 109 Route 101A, Amherst, 882-7725, pastry.netServing classic tortes, cheesecakes and plenty of pastry from three locations, Frederick’s Pastries has earned a reputation as one of the region’s premier cake specialty shops. The cake menu features a wide selection of flavors such as mocha Kahlua, Black Forest, chambord, strawberry mousse, M&M mania, vanilla coconut cream, German chocolate and its signature purple velvet. The purple velvet torte has three layers of purple pound cake, filled with cream cheese frosting, frosted with buttercream and topped with white chocolate curls.

2. BREAD & CHOCOLATE | BEST OF CONCORD29 S. Main St., Concord, 228-3330A staple for many in downtown Concord, Bread & Chocolate offers an array of croissants, eclairs, cream puffs, loaves of bread, brownies, bars and cakes such as carrot, vanilla lemon and chocolate raspberry. Sticky buns are one of the shop’s most popular items, along with its classic fruit tart, made with custard, fresh fruit and a glaze on top.

Photos at Finesse Pastries by Sid Ceaser. On the opposite page, macarons and above, French butter cream cookies.

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2828 BEST OF 2016 | BEST DESSERTS

5. CARINA’S CAKES | BEST OF MANCHESTER37 Crystal Ave., No. 8 (Plaza One), Derry, 425-9620, facebook.com/Carinas.CakesSpecialty cakes are the main focus for Carina’s, with Oreo, peanut butter and chocolate chip cookie dough as the current popular flavors. You’ll also find whoopie pies and cupcakes made twice a week with flavors such as strawberry, toasted coconut, Rolo, and triple chocolate.

6. FREDERICK’S PASTRIESBedford Square, 25 S. River Road, Bedford, 647-2253, pastry.netThe second of Frederick’s New Hampshire locations, it makes cookies, cupcakes and cheesecake in flavors like chocolate peanut butter, plain New York style, raspberry and strawberry truffle. Mixing up the full-size serving, they also make cheesecake cups in miniature single servings of flavors like chocolate lovers and peanut butter brownie.

7. THE CRUST & CRUMB BAKING CO.126 N. Main St., Concord, 219-0763, thecrustandcrumb.comThe certified local bakery in downtown Concord serves fruit tarts, pies, bread, three-layer cakes, mousse cakes, European-style and American cookies — you’ll find biscotti, anginetti and linzer cookies along with oatmeal raisin, snickerdoodle and chocolate chip — not to mention multiple flavors of whoopie pies such as classic, salted caramel, blueberry with lemon filling and raspberry with coconut filling.

At left, Finesse Pastries’ head chef and owner, Chelsey Erickson. At right, lemon sables (a shortbread lemon cookie).

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29BEST OF 2016 | BEST DESSERTS 29

8. BUCKLEY’S BAKERY & CAFE436 Daniel Webster Highway, Merrimack, 262-5929, buckleysbakerycafe.comAt this newest member of the Michael Timothy’s Dining Group family, pastry chefs offer a variety of scones, breads, croissants, traditional pastries like rum balls and coconut bombe, cookies, pies and cakes alongside breakfast items, salads, paninis, pizza, coffee and smoothies.

9. BAKED DOWNTOWN CAFE & BAKERY1015 Elm St., Manchester, 606-1969, bakeddowntown.comSet in the center of downtown Manchester, Baked serves a wide array of bakery items from stuffed cupcakes and whoopie pies to bars, tarts and Danish pastries. Started as a delivery neighborhood bakery in 2008, Baked grew into two retail locations that consist of a bakery and cafe offering soup, salads, sandwiches, coffee, tea and smoothies.

10. BEDFORD VILLAGE INN2 Olde Bedford Way, Bedford 472-2001, bedfordvillageinn.comHoused inside the restaurant, the Bedford Village Inn’s bakeshop offers a dessert menu that changes eight to 12 times throughout the year featuring seasonal selections. A couple of signature items you’ll always find on the menu are the coffee collection, an assortment of selected cheesecake, pastry, biscotti and candy, and the chocolate bag. Designed exactly as it sounds, the edible bag-shaped chocolate shell is filled with chocolate mousse, vanilla cake, chambord simple syrup and berries.

11. MICHELLE’S GOURMET PASTRIES & DELI819 Union St., Manchester, 647-7150, michellespastries.comKnown for their specialty cakes available for folks who walk in to purchase or call ahead to have them personalized, Michelle’s also features a number of other desserts like ricotta pie squares, Napoleons, bread pudding and flourless chocolate cake. One of the bakery’s most popular items is its chocolate chip cookie.

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12. QUEEN CITY CUPCAKES790 Elm St., Manchester, 624-4999, qccupcakes.comGourmet cupcakes fill the displays in this downtown Manchester shop, a family-run business that bakes small batches daily. While the menu selection changes from day to day, look for fun flavors like blackberry truffle, cannoli, key lime pie, chocolate salted caramel, maple bacon, cinnamon coffee roll, raspberry zinger and vanilla bean. There’s also a daily cookie sandwich menu with options like M&M, peanut butter, and chocolate chip.

13. THE RED BLAZER RESTAURANT & PUB72 Manchester St., Concord, 224-4101, theredblazer.comAll of the desserts, cakes and wedding cakes you’ll find at The Red Blazer come from the restaurant’s bakery. Diners who come for a meal choose from the dessert tray that comes to the table, displaying changing and staple items like carrot cake with a cheesecake middle layer and gluten-free chocolate mousse in an edible chocolate bowl, plus the popular Almond Joy and chocolate peanut butter cakes.

14. TARTE CAFE & BAKERY46 Main St., Andover, 977-0075, tartecafeandbakery.comAlmond, chocolate or spinach-and-feta croissants are some of the authentic French pastries you’ll find at Tarte Cafe & Bakery, which also serves French macarons, tarts, pies and cakes. Also enjoy a selection of sandwiches, salads and soups.

15. JACQUES PASTRIES128 Main St., Suncook, 485-4035, jacquespastries.comOne of the area’s premier cake bakeries, Jacques Fine European Pastries is a family-run business that’s been in the same spot in Suncook since the 1970s. The extensive menu ranges from swans, bombes, mousse and tarts to all-occasion cakes, tortes and assorted pastries.

Cookies at Finesse Pastries.

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W hen it comes to coffee in New Hampshire, you’ll find much more than just an average cup of joe. With a handful of roasters right here in the state sourcing beans from across

the globe, you’ll also find specialty drinks like Vietnamese coffee and nitro cold brew. From cafes that serve breakfast and lunch to shops that welcome local musicians at night, every coffee drinker can find the atmosphere that suits them perfectly.

BEST CUP OF COFFEETOP 15

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1. TRUE BREW BARISTA | BEST OF THE BEST3 Bicentennial Square, Concord, 225-2776, truebrewbarista.comThe Robert James and the Dirty Irish Mexican are two drink favorites you’ll find on True Brew’s menu. The first is a white chocolate and butterscotch flavor combination perfect for a cup of coffee, latte or coffee smoothie, and the second is espresso, spiced chocolate and Irish cream. True Brew gets its coffee from A&E Coffee Roastery, switching out the small-batch direct-trade options regularly, though at any given time you’ll find four different espresso origins. Since opening in 2007, True Brew has added to its coffee concept with breakfast and lunch options and popular protein snack “barista balls.” At this originals-only venue, an all-ages open mike is held every Thursday with local bands playing Fridays and Saturdays. A second location, True Brew Cafe, is in Gibson’s Bookstore on Concord’s Main Street.

Photos of True Brew Barista by Sid Ceaser.

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3434 BEST OF 2016 | BEST CUP OF COFFEE

2. THE GRIND RAIL TRAIL CAFE BEST OF MANCHESTER5 W. Broadway, Derry, 247-4506, facebook.com/thegrindnhJust steps away from the Derry Rail Trail, The Grind is a community-first cafe that gives locals a place to hang out and enjoy a cup of coffee. They use A&E coffee to create drink specialties like the sea turtle and beach day latte, a blended latte with coconut and a “Caribbean vibe” to it. The menu features bagels, pastries, soups and sandwiches with locally sourced ingredients like sausage and in-house smoked bacon from Tuckaway Tavern in Raymond, and milk and eggs from Contoocook Creamery. Adding a patio to the cafe this month, The Grind will serve cold treats like ice cream sandwiches, coffee floats and cold-brewed iced coffee from a keg. They’ll also open the walk-up window so trail goers can grab a bite without leaving the sunshine.

3. A&E COFFEE ROASTERY & TEA | BEST OF NASHUA135 Route 101A, Amherst, 578-3338, aeroastery.comA&E Coffee Roastery gets its beans from all over the world. Owner and licensed Q grader Emeran Langmaid seeks out a variety of certified organic, shade-grown, fair-trade coffees to bring to the Granite State. A&E’s Amherst cafe regularly features coffee drink specials like Ginger Thyme Nitro Cooler, their own ginger-thyme syrup blended with lemon seltzer, single-origin cold brew and nitro cold brew, all on the menu in May. Customers are invited to join a cupping (a tasting to assess coffee), held every Monday at 11 a.m., or visit the pop-up pour-over bar in the Amherst cafe’s parking lot Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

4. SCHOODAC’S CAFE | BEST OF CONCORD1 E. Main St., Warner, 456-3400, facebook.com/schoodacsCozy interior seating, a spacious front porch and a sprawling front yard make Schoodac’s an ideal spot for community events. An acoustic brunch with local musicians on Sundays, a pumpkin carving and lighting in the fall and featured local storytellers are a few examples. They work with Stockton Graham in Raleigh, North Carolina, for their coffee along with Woodshed Roasters in Laconia and Java Tree Roasters in Manchester. Maple is a popular drink flavor, whether it be a hot or cold latte or frappe, and croissants from Tarte Cafe & Bakery are crowd-pleasers as well. For tea drinkers, Schoodac’s has 46 varieties to choose from.

5. UNION COFFEE CO.42 South St., Milford, unioncoffee.coKnown for its salted maple latte made with maple syrup from Sammy’s Sugar Shack in Milford, Union Coffee sources from Flight Coffee Co. in Bedford to serve a selection of coffee drinks along with tea, smoothies, baked goods, breakfast and lunch sandwiches, beer and wine. The coffee house hosts an open mike every Friday as well as other monthly events.

At left, coffee with heart at True Brew barista.

35Come see why we are always voted

Best Salon in Nashua Congrats to our Erin Crowley for Best Hairstylist

295 Daniel Webster Highway, Nashua | 891. 0202 | fancynancyssalon.com

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7. CAFE LA REINE915 Elm St., Manchester, 232-0332, cafelareine.comNestled between an Irish pub and a specialty chocolate shop in downtown Manchester, Cafe la Reine draws a broad crowd, from business people to students looking to have a cup of coffee while working on a laptop. The iced coffee is a customer favorite from the menu that features Boston Common Coffee and specialties like a Cuban espresso (espresso infused with raw sugar) and nitro cold brew coffee from newly installed taps. Breakfast sandwiches, bagels, flatbreads, wraps and salads are also available, along with pastries and other sweets. An originals-only open mike is held one Friday a month, run by Alli Beaudry.

6. RIVERWALK CAFE & MUSIC BAR35 Railroad Square, Nashua, 578-0200, riverwalknashua.comInitially a coffeehouse and roastery, Riverwalk Cafe embraced a more European model when it converted the space next door to a live music venue and full bar serving classic cocktails and craft beer along with breakfast, lunch and dinner options. Coffee is roasted in small batches on site using a Turkish drum roaster. The drinks menu features an array of hot and iced espresso drinks, smoothies and frappes — some of which have espresso in them, like the mochaccino, spunky monkey, chunky spunky monkey and wake-up call. The Riverwalk Music Bar hosts regional and national bluegrass, roots, world, jazz and soul/R&B music acts.

8. WHITE MOUNTAIN GOURMET COFFEE15 Pleasant St., Concord, 228-3317, whitemountaingourmetcoffee.comA family-owned and -operated coffee purveyor and roaster, White Mountain offers an array of specialty coffees from Brazil, Kenya, Peru and elsewhere. Twelve coffee varieties are brewed daily along with bakery items, breakfast sandwiches, quiche and oatmeal. The drinks menu features espresso drinks like lattes, cappuccinos and mochaccinos, along with frozen drinks like an espresso shake, vanilla chai smoothie and fruit smoothies.

9. REPUBLIC1069 Elm St., Manchester, 666-3723, republiccafe.comKeeping to its locally sourced concept, Republic gets its coffee beans from Java Tree, right in the Manchester millyard. The menu includes a regular cup of coffee, decaf, espresso, cappuccino, latte and Americano, as well as Irish coffee. Stop by to enjoy a cup with breakfast or grab a latte to go.

Below, Stephanie Zinser, owner of True Brew Barista. At right, the popular snack barista balls.

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10. THE LOCAL MOOSE CAFE124 Queen City Ave., Manchester, 232-2669, thelocalmoosecafe.comEnjoy espresso, Americano, cappuccino and other coffee drinks at The Local Moose Cafe, made with beans from A&E Coffee Roastery & Tea. Along with various teas and blends of coffee, check out their signature take on a Vietnamese coffee, made with a double shot of espresso poured over sweetened condensed milk. The cafe serves small-plate breakfast, lunch and baked goods (their French bread and brioche buns are made in-house) with gluten-free and vegan selections.

11. A&E COFFEE ROASTERY & TEA1000 Elm St., Manchester, 578-3338, aeroastery.comIn addition to Amherst, A&E has a second cafe location in Manchester, serving a host of specialty coffee and tea drinks and monthly specials. With seating available indoors and outdoors, the cafe also serves breakfast and lunch, plus assorted baked goods. A&E will be part of Manchester’s farmers market this summer (held Thursdays in Victory Park from 3 to 6:30 p.m.) and works with other local cafes to host latte art competitions.

12. TUCKER’S1328 Hooksett Road, Hooksett, 206-5757, tuckersnh.comKnown for its family atmosphere and tasty breakfast, Tucker’s gets its coffee from Mill City Roasting in Manchester. They have a signature blend called Tribal Brew, a dark roast blend of Indonesian and Colombian coffees. The specialty coffee menu uses the brewed coffees as a base for popular drinks like mocha java and salted caramel mocha. Folks can enjoy a cup to go, during the meal or while waiting for their table. Tucker’s also has locations in New London and Concord.

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Steve LarachelleTrusted Jewelry for 25 Years1356 Elm St Manchester | 935-8613

3838 BEST OF 2016 | BEST CUP OF COFFEE

13. AROMA JOE’S COFFEE2 S. Beech St., Manchester, aromajoes.comFind many flavor-filled options at Aroma Joe’s with over 20 varieties of espresso-based hot or cold drinks such as coconut joy, dark mocha, Irish kicker, s’more fantasy and sticky bun. The menu features lattes and mochas, coffees and teas, blended frozen drinks, plus flavored energy infusions, iced infusions, all-day breakfast sandwiches, baked goods and sweets.

14. THE COFFEE FACTORY55 Crystal Ave., Derry, 432-6006, thecoffeefactorynh.comTwo or three times a week, The Coffee Factory roasts its coffee beans in house. They’re brought in from countries like Guatemala, Tanzania, Colombia, Java, Costa Rica and Sumatra. You’ll always find hot and iced drinks like lattes, mochas, chai teas, frappuccinos, smoothies and an original caramel macchiato, plus seasonal coffee specials like this spring’s sea turtle, raspberry white mocha, almond joy and skinny vanilla mocha. The food selection features breakfast sandwiches, lunch bagels, wraps and paninis and pastry and bakery items such as meat pies, banana bread, biscotti, scones and muffin tops. An open mike is held the fourth Friday of the month and there is a second location in Salem.

15. APOTHECA FLOWER & TEA SHOPPE24c Main St., Goffstown Village, 497-4940, apothecaflowershoppe.comA flower shop, coffee shop and gift gallery wrapped into one, Apotheca draws a wide range of patrons, from a retired men’s weekly gathering to students on coffee break. Using beans from Flight Coffee Co. in Bedford, the drinks menu ranges from house blend coffee and maple-flavored lattes to various teas and the popular matcha mint smoothie. The shop’s latest drink special is Lemon Buzz: tonic water with two shots of espresso and lemon zest.

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BEST FARM

T hese top 10 New Hampshire farms have a lot to offer. Most of them have farm stands with seasonal fruits and vegetables, and some have meat and dairy products, too. There are also plenty of attractions and activities the whole family can enjoy, such as petting

farms, pick-your-own opportunities, corn mazes, hayrides and more. Since growing seasons vary year to year depending on the weather, farms often announce updates on their websites and social media pages, so be sure to check those for the most accurate information.

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1. LULL FARM | BEST OF THE BEST65 Broad St., Hollis, 465-7079, livefreeandfarm.comLull Farm is a family-owned farm open seven days a week year-round, with an additional farm stand location in Milford open seasonally. Its main location features a farmstand with a wide selection of seasonal fruits and vegetables, an award-winning cheese counter with imported and local artisanal cheeses, farm animals and a flower department. In 2012, the Lull Farm Bakery was opened with artisan breads and pastries, homemade soups, gourmet coffees, lunch and dinner items and more. Pick-your-own opportunities are available for strawberries and blueberries in the summer and apples in the fall. On seasonal Saturdays, visitors can see a demonstration of how cider is made at the cider press. At Halloween time, Lull Farm has pumpkins and carving stations available and hosts an annual pumpkin lighting event with jack-o-lanterns all over the farm.

Photos of Lull Farm by Sid Ceaser.

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3. WILSON FARM144 Charles Bancroft Highway, Route 3A, Litchfield, 882-5551, wilsonfarm.comWilson Farm was founded by Irish immigrants in Lexington, Mass., in 1884. Since then it has doubled the size of its original location and opened an additional 500-acre farm in Litchfield. The Litchfield farm is open to the public May through October. Over a hundred varieties of fruits, vegetables and herbs are sold at the farm stands over the course of the season. Wilson Farm offers a CSA program with small and large produce shares weekly for 18 weeks, fish shares every other week for eight weeks, and flower shares weekly for 10 weeks. Shares are picked up at the farm every Wednesday.

2. J&F FARMS | BEST OF MANCHESTER108 Chester Road, Derry, 437-0535, facebook.com/jffarmsA family-owned farm since 1906, J&F Farms is open to the public seven days a week year-round with seasonal products and activities. The farmstand has a variety of fruits and vegetables, meat and eggs, flowers and garden products and more. Visitors can pick their own strawberries in the summer and tomatoes, peppers, eggplants and pumpkins in the fall. A petting farm is open seasonally, as well as a corn maze.

A greenhouse (page 42), Lull Farm’s Hollis farm stand (below) and apples (at right).

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4. DIMOND HILL FARM | BEST OF CONCORD314 Hopkinton Road, Concord, 496-8218, dimondhillfarm.comDimond Hill Farm has been owned by six generations of the Abbot-Presby family since opening in 1827. The 150-acre farm is open early June through mid-December and features a farmstand, walking trails and a labyrinth, llamas, pick-your-own berries and more. The farm stand is located in a historic 19th-century barn and carries an assortment of vegetables as well as locally produced cheeses, eggs, milk, bread and other items. Starting in late November, Dimond Hill Farm also carries Christmas trees and wreaths.

5. BEECH HILL FARM107 Beech Hill Road, Hopkinton, 223-0828, beechhillfarm.comBeech Hill Farm is owned and operated by the ninth generation of the Kimball family. It’s open late April through the end of October and is best-known for its Ice Cream Barn featuring over 75 flavors of ice cream and frozen yogurt and a make-your-own sundae bar. The farm also has a country store with a variety of gifts and locally made food products, a Gardener’s Barn and Potting Shed, nature trails, a fall corn maze, farm animals and a giant sand pile for kids.

At left and below, scenes at Lull Farm in Hollis.

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476. MCQUESTEN FARM

330 Charles Bancroft Hwy., Litchfield, 424-9268, facebook.com/McQuesten.FarmMcQuesten Farm is a family-owned farm opened in 1744. It opens for the season the week before Mother’s Day and closes at the end of October. Pick-your-own opportunities include strawberries in the summer and a variety of veggies in the fall. On weekends in October, there are free hayrides to the pumpkin patch for pumpkin-picking, and Christmas trees are available in November. Visitors can see and feed farm animals like goats, horses, ducks, peacocks and rabbits.

7. APPLE HILL FARM 580 Mountain Road, Concord, 224-8862, applehillfarmnh.comApple Hill Farm is open to the public mid-June through the day before Thanksgiving. Pick-your-own fruits include strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackcurrants in the summer and a wide variety of apples in the fall. The farm stand, which opens in August, features peaches, apples, pears, an assortment of veggies, pies and other baked goods, jellies and jams, milk, cheeses, homemade apple cider and more. Apple Hill Farm offers a CSA program that grants members exclusive promotions and discounts that can be applied to pick-your-own, farm stand and farmers market purchases. The farm participates in the summer Concord market on Saturday mornings and Bedford market on Tuesday afternoons.

8. BROOKFORD FARM250 West Road, Canterbury, 742-4084, brookfordfarm.comBrookford Farm is a 600-acre farm with vegetable crops, cows, pigs and chickens. Its farm store is open seven days a week year-round and sells meats, eggs, raw milk, cultured dairy products, cheeses, vegetables and artisan breads. A CSA program with customizable shares is offered for 12 weeks in the spring, 20 weeks in the summer and 20 weeks in the fall and winter. Brookford Farm participates in multiple farmers markets including the Seacoast Eat Local winter market in Exeter and Rollinsford on Saturdays, the Concord winter market on Saturdays, and the year-round Salem market on Sundays.

The orchards in early spring at Lull Farm (at left). Below, Brussels sprouts at the farm stand.

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9. MILES SMITH FARM56 Whitehouse Road, Loudon, 783-5159, milessmithfarm.comMiles Smith Farm is a 36-acre animal farm with pigs, Scottish Highlander and Angus cross cattle, ducks, geese and rabbits. There is a farmhouse inn, and a farm store with a variety of meats is open seasonally and by appointment. Some animals and farming products are also for sale. Visitors can participate in a self-guided or group tour of the farm and even ride the trained cattle. Miles Smith Farm offers a CSA program with substantial discounts for customers looking to purchase meat continuously over several months.

10. TROMBLY GARDENS | BEST OF NASHUA150 N. River Road, Milford, 673-0647, tromblygardens.ipage.comTrombly Gardens has a farm stand open year-round (days and hours vary seasonally) with seasonal fruits and vegetables, beef and pork, eggs, milk, ice cream, jellies and jams, maple syrup and more. Hay rides and a corn maze are available on weekends in the fall. A CSA program with produce shares is offered for 19 to 22 weeks and meat shares by the year or every six months. Trombly Gardens also participates in the Amherst, Merrimack and Milford summer farmers markets.

Above, a cow at Lull Farm seeks a closeup. At left, peppers at the Lull Farm farm stand.

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W ant more farm fresh fun? Check out one of the state’s many farmers markets. In addition to strawberries in June and tomatoes in August, you’ll find local dairy and meats, locally made breads and other baked treats and even art and music at some

markets. Several local markets even have a companion winter market that keeps you in local eats through the colder months. Here (with information from the NH Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food, agriculture.nh.gov) are Hippo readers’ 10 favorite farmers markets.

BEST FARMERS MARKETSTOP 10

51511. BEST: CONCORD FARMERS MARKET The Concord Farmers Market (concordfarmersmarket.com) runs Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Capitol Street (next to the statehouse) in Concord. The market's 2016 season runs from May 7 into October.

2. RUNNER-UP: BEDFORD FARMERS MARKETThe Bedford Farmers Market (find them on Facebook) runs Tuesdays from 3 to 6 p.m. in the parking lot of St. Elizabeth Seton Parish, 190 Meetinghouse Road in Bedford. The 2016 season opens June 14 and runs into October.

3. HONORABLE MENTION: SALEM FARMERS MARKETOpen year round, the Salem Farmers Market (salemnhfarmersmarket.org) runs Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. On May 1, it moved to 224 No. Broadway (Route 28) in Salem.

4. NASHUA FARMERS MARKETThe farmers market in Nashua (find them on Facebook or at downtownnashua.org) runs Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Main Street Bridge downtown. The 2016 season starts on June 19.

5. MANCHESTER COMMUNITY MARKETThe farmers market in Manchester (manchestercommunitymarket.org) is held on Thursdays from 3 to 6:30 p.m. on Concord Street in Victory Park (a block east of Elm Street) in downtown Manchester. The season is scheduled to run from June 16 through Oct. 20.

6. MILFORD FARMERS MARKETThe Milford Farmers Market (milfordnhfarmersmarket.com) is held on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Tractor Supply parking lot at the Granite Town Plaza, 191 Elm St. in Milford. The 2016 season starts June 18 and runs into October.

7. PORTSMOUTH FARMERS MARKETPart of the Seacoast Growers Association, the Portsmouth Farmers Market (seacoastgrowers.org, find it under "markets") runs on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 1 Junkins Ave. in Portsmouth. The 2016 season runs May 7 through Nov. 5.

8. MERRIMACK FARMERS MARKETThe Merrimack Farmers Market (merrimacknh.gov/farmers-market) is held Wednesdays from 3 to 6 p.m. at 526 DW Highway in Merrimack. The 2016 season runs from June 15 through Oct. 12.

9. WARNER AREA FARMERS MARKETHeld in the summer on the lawn of the Warner Town Hall, the Warner Area Farmers Market (find them on Facebook) is held Saturdays from 9 a.m .to 1 p.m. The 2016 starts May 14 and runs into November.

10. CONTOOCOOK FARMERS MARKETContoocook Farmers Market (find them on Facebook) runs Saturdays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Contoocook Train Depot, 896 Main St. The season is scheduled to run from June to October.

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N ew Hampshire’s florists are the people you go to for all your major events — births, deaths, weddings, anniversaries, graduations, birthdays — and many travel far and wide and

bend over backward to provide those perfect florals and accents for your biggest days. Some of this year’s favorites are third-generation businesses that have been around for more than 100 years.

BEST FLORISTTOP 10

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1. COBBLESTONE DESIGN COMPANY BEST OF THE BEST89 Fort Eddy Road, Concord, 228-5980, cobblestoneflorist.com,Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Cobblestone is a full-service florist that provides flowers and decor for all sorts of events, including weddings, proms, funerals and parties (including the governor’s inaugural ball). Co-owners Rick Talbot and Brad Towne travel all over to buy the merchandise sold here, including flowers, which have come from places as far away as India, Holland and South America. In May they plan to have 30 different foliages on hand for designs. The 5,800-square-foot store also carries home decor, patio and garden accessories, permanent botanicals and New Hampshire-made products.

2. CHALIFOUR’S | BEST OF MANCHESTER46 Elm St., Manchester, 623-8844, chalifours.com,Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.Chalifour’s dates back to 1940 and boasts a large inventory of fresh flowers, plus tropicals, plants, contemporary and traditional arrangements, silk arrangements and dried florals. Services cater to all occasions, from babies and anniversaries to sympathy work. Outside of florals, there are gift baskets, giftware, greeting cards, stuffed animals, balloons and locally made products.

Photos of Cobblestone Design Company by Sid Ceaser.

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55BEST OF 2016 | BEST FLORIST 55

4. APOTHECA FLOWER AND TEA SHOPPE24C Main St., Goffstown, 497-4940, apothecaflowershoppe.comMonday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.Alyssa Van Guilder started with flowers and tea in 2005 before moving the business in 2008 to its current location in an 1860s train depot in the middle of Goffstown village, complete with original ticket windows, doors and exterior trim. She considers it first and foremost an art-driven flower shop and travels to Boston every week to hand-pick seasonal blossoms at the flower market. Some of the flowers come from Ken and Susan Koerber from Dunbarton, whose barn often holds weddings the business helps coordinate. The flower shop also hosts regular make-your-own terrarium, flower crown and May Day basket workshops.

3. JACQUES FLOWER SHOP AND GARDEN CENTER712 Mast Road, Manchester, 622-5155, jacquesflowers.comMonday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.Jacques has been a family business since 1910, first with the Jacques family and then with the Godbout family starting in 1974. Today it’s run by Paul and Nancy Godbout and their kids, Aimee and Adam Godbout. At the shop are flowers, plants, a garden center, patio furniture and New Hampshire-made gourmet products, from food and wine to chocolate and candles. The business also helps with wedding design and planning whenever asked — one Harry Potter-themed wedding included setting up a Whomping Willow tree. The company has catered to large events, including the Palace Theatre’s home and kitchen tours and graduations at the Verizon Wireless Arena.

5. FORTIN GAGE FLOWERS AND GIFTSBEST OF NASHUA86 W. Pearl St., Nashua, 882-3371, fortingage.comMonday through Wednesday and Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.The Nashua flower shop was established in 1931 and today is a family business. Current co-owner and lead florist Jody Gage took over for his dad, Ed Gage, and has carried on the legacy with Jill Gage since 2000. Fortin Gage florists have designed for every occasion: birthdays, Valentine’s Days, weddings, proms, sympathy, anniversaries and new babies. Non-floral products include jewelry, purses, blown glass, home products and gift baskets.

6. FORD FLOWER COMPANY83 S. Broadway, Salem, 893-9955, fordflower.comMonday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.The company, run by Bert Ford, offers daily arrangements and performs wedding, birthday, shower, anniversary and sympathy work and helps with planning weddings and big parties. In addition, it boasts a large plant selection and non-floral gifts and gift baskets.

At left, flowers from Cobblestone Design Company.

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7. D. MCLEOD, INC. | BEST OF CONCORD49 S. State St., Concord, 225-3721, dmlflowers.comMonday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.D. McLeod was established in 1902 by the current owner’s great-grandfather, Donald McLeod, and has been in the same location ever since. The company directly imports fresh flowers from Holland and South America and offers a large assortment of fresh, silk and dried flowers, plus locally grown plants — poinsettias and annuals — in the store’s five attached greenhouses. In addition, the company sells gourmet gift baskets, candy and gifts. Services range from weddings and anniversaries to proms and birthdays.

8. COLLINS FLOWERS, INC.9 Main St., Nashua, 882-2723, collinsflowers.comMonday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.The full-service Nashua flower shop is a third-generation company that has been in owner Peter Collins’ family since 1930. Products include arrangements and a variety of greenhouse plants. Services cater to all occasions.

9. CELESTE’S FLOWER BARN300 Varney St., Manchester, 623-5835, celesteflowerbarn.comMonday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to noonThe family-owned and -operated company has been in Manchester since 1984 and sells fresh flowers, silk arrangements, custom wreaths, candles, jewelry, scarves, house and outdoor plants, and services are offered for all occasions. It’s located in a renovated barn with original wood, and designs cater to customers’ preferences and styles, from rustic to vintage.

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10. RODNEY C. WOODMAN FLORIST, INC.469 Nashua St., Milford, 673-3545, woodmansflorist.comMonday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.Founded in 1910 by Rodney C. Woodman Sr., this third-generation family-owned flower shop has been serving the area for more than 100 years and is currently owned by his granddaughter, Betsy Deasy. The full-service florist sells fresh arrangements, silks, loose bouquets (customers choose their own), house plants, dish gardens, floor plants and holiday decor, plus seasonals like geraniums, hanging plants, lilies, mums and poinsettias.

On pages 56 and 57, scenes from Cobblestone Design Company.

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F rom skiing on the slopes of Mount Sunapee to wading in the waters of Hampton Beach, New Hampshire’s state parks offer a wide variety of activities for visitors

to enjoy. Most charge only a small admission fee, and some have special programs like guided hikes, interpretive tours and environmental workshops for kids and families.

BEST STATE PARKTOP 10

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1. PAWTUCKAWAY STATE PARK | BEST OF THE BEST128 Mountain Road, Nottingham, 895-3031, nhstateparks.org/visit/state-parks/pawtuckaway-state-park.aspxPawtuckaway State Park features a diverse landscape with a family beach on the lake and hiking trails where wildlife and natural points of interest can be seen. The park is typically staffed daily during the main season, which runs from the Friday before Memorial Day in May through Labor Day in September, but it is open for recreation year round. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children ages 6 through 11, and free for children ages 5 and under and seniors 65+. As with all state parks, payment is accepted through a self-serve pay station when the park isn’t staffed during the main season. No payment is required during the off-season, though Pawtuckaway still accepts donations through the pay station. Educational nature programs are offered weekly throughout the summer as part of the Discover the Power of Parks series.

Photos of Pawtuckaway State Park by Sid Ceaser.

2. BEAR BROOK STATE PARK | RUNNER-UP 61 Deerfield Road, Allenstown, 485-9869, nhstateparks.org/visit/state-parks/bear-brook-state-park.aspxWith more than 10,000 acres, Bear Brook State Park is the largest developed state park in New Hampshire. It features 40 miles of trails through various types of terrain, accommodating hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians, as well as two archery ranges, a campground and more. The park is typically staffed daily during the main season, which runs from early May through late September, but it is open for recreation year round. Admission costs $4 for adults, $2 for children ages 6 through 11, and is free for children ages 5 and under and seniors 65+. Educational nature programs are offered weekly throughout the summer as part of the Discover the Power of Parks series.

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6060 BEST OF 2016 | BEST STATE PARK

3. ODIORNE POINT STATE PARKHONORABLE MENTION570 Ocean Blvd., Rye, 436-7406, nhstateparks.org/visit/state-parks/odiorne-point-state-park.aspxOdiorne Point State Park features an extensive network of trails through 135 acres of rocky shoreline, sandy beaches, salt marsh, freshwater and salt ponds, dense forest and military and historical sites. It is also home to the Seacoast Science Center. The park is typically staffed daily during the main season, which runs from early May through early October, but it is open for recreation year round. Admission is $4 for adults, $2 for children ages 6 through 11, and free for children ages 5 and under and seniors 65+.

4. WELLINGTON STATE PARK614 West Shore Road, Bristol, 744-2197, nhstateparks.org/visit/state-parks/wellington-state-park.aspxWellington State Park claims the largest freshwater swimming beach among the state parks, and one of the deepest and clearest lakes in New Hampshire. Amenities include volleyball and horseshoe courts, a boat launch, kayak rentals, a snack bar and hiking trails incorporating picnic areas, fishing areas, plant identification markers and natural points of interest. The park is typically staffed daily during the main season, which runs from mid-May through mid-September, but it is open for recreation year round. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children ages 6 through 11, and free for children ages 5 and under and seniors 65+.

5. WALLIS SANDS STATE BEACH1050 Ocean Blvd., Rye, 436-9404, nhstateparks.org/visit/state-parks/wallis-sands-state-beach.aspxWallis Sands State Beach is a sandy beach with ocean swimming and views of the Isles of Shoals. Amenities include a store with food and drinks, a bathhouse with hot and cold showers, walking trails and a grassy area with picnic tables. The park is staffed daily during the main season, which runs from late May through early September, but it is open for recreation year round. Lifeguards are on duty 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $15 per passenger vehicle, and free for seniors 65+.

6. MOUNT SUNAPEE STATE PARK86 Beach Access Road, Newbury, 763-5561, nhstateparks.org/visit/state-parks/mount-sunapee-state-park.aspxMount Sunapee State Park is home to alpine ski area and resort Mount Sunapee Resort, and to Mount Sunapee State Park Beach, which contains a 4,085-acre lake. Amenities include a boat launch and boat rentals, hiking trails, a playground, a picnic area, a campground and more. The park is typically staffed daily during the main season, which runs from late May through mid-September, but it is open for recreation year round. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children ages 6 through 11, and free for children ages 5 and under and seniors 65+.

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7. HAMPTON BEACH STATE PARK160 Ocean Blvd., Hampton, 926-8990, nhstateparks.org/visit/state-parks/hampton-beach-state-park.aspxHampton Beach State Park features miles of beaches with soft white sand, tide pools and natural rock walls. Permitted activities include swimming, fishing, picnicking and RV camping, with full hook-ups available in the campground. There are five bathhouses (two are seasonal, three are year-round), a convenience store and a snack bar on site. The park is typically staffed daily during the main season, which runs from late May through early September, but it is open for recreation year round. Lifeguards are on duty 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily from June 11 through Sept. 5. Admission for the parking area at South Beach is $15 per passenger vehicle and free for seniors 65+.

8. ELLACOYA STATE PARK266 Scenic Road, Gilford, 293-7821, nhstateparks.org/visit/state-parks/ellacoya-state-park.aspxEllacoya State Park is located on the southwest shore of New Hampshire’s largest lake, Lake Winnipesaukee. It features a 600-foot-long sandy beach area open for swimming, fishing, canoeing and kayaking, with views of the Sandwich and Ossipee mountains across the lake. There are also picnic areas, a playground and an RV campground with three-way hook-ups. The park is typically staffed daily during the main season, which runs from late May through early September, but it is open for recreation year round. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children ages 6 through 11, and free for children ages 5 and under and seniors 65+.

9. GREENFIELD STATE PARK133 Beach Road, Greenfield, 547-3497, nhstateparks.org/visit/state-parks/greenfield-state-park.aspx Greenfield State Park features a diverse landscape with ponds, bogs, forests and a lake. Amenities include walking trails leading to natural points of interest, boat rentals, picnic areas, a playground, a campground, a park store and more. The park is typically staffed every day during the main season, which runs weekends in May and daily from early June through the end of October, but it is open for recreation year round. Admission is $4 for adults, $2 for children ages 6 through 11, and free for children ages 5 and under and seniors 65+. Educational nature programs are offered weekly throughout the summer as part of the Discover the Power of Parks series.

10. FRANCONIA NOTCH STATE PARK9 Franconia Notch Parkway, Franconia/Lincoln, 745-8391, nhstateparks.org/visit/state-parks/franconia-notch-state-park.aspxFranconia Notch State Park is located in the White Mountain National Forest and is home to the Franconia Notch, a mountain pass crossed by a parkway extending from Echo Lake to the Flume Gorge. The notch once held the iconic Old Man of the Mountain. Visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, fishing, biking, horseback riding, camping and more. Educational nature programs are offered weekly throughout the summer as part of the Discover the Power of Parks series. A full schedule is available online, along with a printable scavenger hunt for kids and families to do as they walk through the Flume Gorge.

At left, Pawtuckaway State Park.

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6262 BEST OF 2016 | MORE OUTDOOR FUN

MORE OUTDOOR FUN

BEST LOCAL HIKING TRAILBEST OF THE BEST: MINE FALLS PARK

Whipple Street, Nashua, 589-3400, ext. 5005, nashuanh.govFeatures around 8 miles of trails over 325 acres of forest, open fields and wetlands, bordered by the Nashua River, Millpond and canal system.

BEST OF CONCORD: MARJORY SWOPE PARK Long Pond Road, Concord, 225-8515, concordnh.gov Features an easy trail loop about 2 miles long with a view of Penacook Lake.

BEST OF MANCHESTER: LAKE MASSABESIC off the Londonderry Turnpike, Manchester, 624-6444, manchesternh.gov Features multiple trails ranging from 1/2 mile to over 3 miles in length.

BEST OF NASHUA: BEAVER BROOK117 Ridge Road, Hollis, 465-7787, beaverbrook.org Features 35 miles of trails.

N ew Hampshire’s great outdoors — and the many activities you can do there — are part of the state’s draw both for tourists and people who call the Granite State home. In addition to state parks, Hippo voters had a few more recommendations

for places to find fun in our big backyard.

BEST CITY PARKBEST OF THE BEST: WHITE PARK

1 White St., Concord, 225-8690, concordnh.gov Features 20 acres with walking paths, a sports field and court, White Park Pond, an ice skating rink in the winter, a pool in the summer and the city’s largest playground.

BEST OF CONCORD: ROLLINS PARK 116 Broadway St., Concord, 225-8690, concordnh.gov Features walking paths, a playground, sports fields, a gazebo, a pool in the summer and ice skating rink in the winter.

BEST OF MANCHESTER: LIVINGSTON PARK Hooksett Road, Manchester, 624-6444, manchesternh.gov Features a playground, sports field, running track, pool and about 1 mile of unpaved trail loops around the 25-acre Dorrs Pond, which is open for fishing and boating in the summer and ice skating in the winter.

BEST OF NASHUA: GREELEY PARK 100 Concord St., Nashua, 589-3370, nashuanh.govFeatures 125 acres with sports fields and courts, picnic areas, a playground, hiking trails, a wading pool and a bandstand and is a hotspot for community events.Photos of Mine Falls Park by Erika Follansbee.

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T he indie bookstore is an ever-changing place, but the most successful ones complement the communities they reside in. New Hampshire’s feature coffee shops and comic cons, game nights and regular author events, and each has its own specific character. Here are

your favorite bookstores and comic book stores.

TOP 11BEST BOOKSTORE

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1. GIBSON’S BOOKSTORE | BEST OF THE BEST45 S. Main St., Concord, 224-0562, gibsonsbookstore.comThe downtown Concord bookstore, founded in 1898, is bursting with regular programming and bustling with people shopping for new and old titles, games, educational toys and coffee at the small on-site True Brew Cafe every day. Once a month, the Poetry Society of New Hampshire presents a reading, and the Gibson’s Book Club meets to discuss a new title. Twice a week, kids come in for storytime events. This spring, the bookstore is teeming with local and international author presentations, including New York Times bestselling writer Sarah J. Maas and Pulitzer Prize-winner Richard Russo, who are visiting May 12 and May 26 to talk about their new books, A Court of Mist and Fury and Everybody’s Fool, respectively.

2. TOADSTOOL BOOKSHOP | BEST OF NASHUALorden Plaza, 614 Nashua St., Milford, 673-1734, toadbooks.comOf the three Toadstool Bookshop locations in the Monadnock region, this is the foodie one, thanks to its recently added Bookside Cafe, which sells coffee, pastries, bagels, quiche, soups, salads and sandwiches. When a food writer stops in, programming is likely to incorporate menus that go along with featured titles. The bookstore is also the site for a number of social meet-ups, including the Science Fiction and Fantasy discussion group, the Young Critics Club, the Eats, Knits and Leaves group for local crafters, and Writers United. Authors come from all over to stop at this bookstore, with upcoming events featuring Kat Howard, who promotes her book Roses and Rot May 19, and Jill Weber and Julie Salamon, who talk about Mutt’s Promise June 4.

Photos of Gibson’s Bookstore by Sid Ceaser. At left, Gibson’s employee Ryan Clark.

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6666 BEST OF 2016 | BEST BOOKSTORE

3. DOUBLE MIDNIGHT COMICS & COLLECTIBLESBEST OF MANCHESTER245 Maple St., Manchester, 669-9636, dmcomics.comPeople come to Double Midnight Comics for pop-culture products — comics, graphic novels, games, Pokemon and Magic: the Gathering cards — but also its events, which represent some of the biggest comic book celebrations in the state. Most notable is its annual Granite State Comic Con, slated for Sept. 17 and Sept. 18 this year at the Radisson Center of New Hampshire in Manchester (granitecon.com), but owners Chris and Scott Proulx and Brett Parker are also busy organizing the MASSive Comic Con this June in Worcester, Massachusetts (massivecomicon.com). The 4,000-square-foot store is also a regular site for social meet-ups, which range from Magic: the Gathering and Pokemon tournaments to comedy nights and women’s comic clubs.

4. MAINSTREET BOOKENDS | BEST OF CONCORD16 E. Main St., Warner, 456-2700, mainstreetbookends.comMainStreet BookEnds is a bookstore first and foremost, but owner Katharine Nevins has also been known to call it a community center. Independently or with local nonprofit MainStreet Warner, Inc., the store hosts a variety of events and programming throughout the year, from author visits to free film or musical entertainment in the adjoining park and amphitheater. At the back of the store is an attached barn that acts as the MainStreet MarketPlace and Gallery, featuring locally made art and products, and outside are the solar panels that helped the Warner business become the second bookstore in the nation to go 100-percent solar.

5. JETPACK COMICS37 N. Main St., Rochester, 330-9636, jetpackcomics.comOwner Ralph DiBernardo calls Jetpack Comics a “pop culture haven.” The store carries comics and popular and lesser-known card and board games, and staff are constantly updating and restocking inventory to keep up with customer demand. Every week, the 1,600-square-foot game room fills up with people playing everything from Pokemon to Yu-Gi-Oh! The business is known for its epic Free Comic Book Day downtown event that incorporates the greater community. It celebrates 10 years this summer.

At left, Gibson’s prominently features local authors. At right, Gibson’s owner Michael Herrmann.

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6. TOADSTOOL BOOKSHOP12 Depot Square, Peterborough, 924-3543, toadbooks.comThe Peterborough shop is the original of the three Toadstool Bookshop locations, and save its frequent author events, little has changed since owner Willard Williams started with the shop in 1972. Inside is a large range of reading material curated to pique interest and resonate with local readers. In addition to bestsellers and nationally known books, the selection includes works by local authors and material that focuses on local topics. This store has the largest secondhand collection of all the Toadstool locations, plus cards and calendars.

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Discover the pizza that wins “Best Pizza” awards in both Manchester and

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prepared toppings on dough made fresh right here in the store. All of our pizzas are hand-tossed and cooked

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Best Selection of

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10. MORGAN HILL BOOKSTORE253 Main St., New London, 526-5850, morganhillbookstore.comThe independent bookstore is next to the town fire house and has been a mainstay in New London since 1995, when it was opened by Connie Appel and Peggy Holliday. Today it’s husband-wife team Anna and Chris Miner who run the show. The store offers bestsellers and children’s books, toys, games, note cards, specialty puzzles and books signed by Strega Nona author Tomie dePaola, who lives nearby.

11. THE COMIC STORE115 Northeastern Blvd., Nashua, 881-4855Store owner John Lawrence started The Comic Store 35 years ago, in November 1981, and today he describes the shop as a full-service hobbyists’ destination. Products include board games, card games, miniatures, comics, graphic novels, toys, posters, statues and T-shirts, and the $1 comics bin has a selection of 30,000.

9. CRACKSKULL’S COFFEE & BOOKS86 Main St., Newmarket, 659-8181, crackskulls.comSixteen years ago, Crackskull’s started as a second-hand bookstore, but today it’s a place where locals go for coffee, freshly baked doughnuts and community gatherings. People from the arts community often stop in for NH Media Makers meet-ups and readings courtesy of Prose, Poetry and Popsicles. Last year, regulars collaborated for a short story compilation called The Voices of Crackskulls. Owner Michelle Lesmerises said she added a writing area with paper and utensils during a recent renovation.

8. NEONBOMB710 Somerville St., Manchester, 505-8098, neonbomb.comThe pop culture shop sells comic books, retro video games (Atari, Nintendo, PlayStation, Xbox), card games, manga and nerdy merchandise like toys, action figures, robot models, video game stuffed animal characters and packaged Japanese snacks. Customers come in for regular board game nights and tournaments. The business celebrates three years in October.

7. DOUBLE MIDNIGHT COMICS & COLLECTIBLES67 S. Main St., Concord, 715-2683, dmcomics.comThe 2,000-square-foot downtown Concord storefront is almost the mirror image of the Manchester location, but smaller. The vibe is similar, with the same products, but the Concord location has allowed owners to collaborate in downtown Concord community events like the Halloween Howl, which coincides with this site’s anniversary.

At left, True Brew Cafe (a second location for Best Cup of Coffee winner True Brew Barista) offers coffee, eats and more inside Gibson’s.

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7070 BEST OF 2016 | BEST LIVE MUSIC

BEST BARS WITH LIVE MUSIC

Y ou don’t have to drop a big chunk of money or go to a large performance venue to enjoy live music in the Granite State. These local bars host performers of all

kinds of music in an intimate setting, usually with a small or no cover charge. From laid-back coffee houses to rockin’ dance clubs, there’s something for everyone.

TOP 10

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1. THE SHASKEEN PUB AND RESTAURANTBEST OF THE BEST909 Elm St., Manchester, 625-0246, theshaskeenpub.comThe Shaskeen has been synonymous with live music since it was founded by traditional Irish musicians Tommy McCarthy and Matt Molloy in November 2005. Every day of the week except Wednesday, the Shaskeen hosts what co-owner James Pliakos says is “just about every type of music that exists.” Irish sessions are held on Saturday and Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. Open-mike night is Monday at 9 p.m., rap night is Sunday at 9 p.m., and acoustic night is Tuesday at 9 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday have various kinds of live music from 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Regular performers include comedic cover artist Bruce Jacques and U2 tribute band Joshua Tree.

2. STRANGE BREW TAVERN | BEST OF MANCHESTER88 Market St., Manchester, 666-4292, strangebrewtavern.netSince it opened in 1999, Strange Brew Tavern has been a hotspot for live music in Manchester. It currently hosts performers five nights a week, some local, others coming from all over New England. Most of the music falls into the blues or acoustic genre. Each week kicks off with the Sunday night blues jam, held from 8 p.m. to midnight. Various artists perform Tuesday and Thursday through Saturday, starting around 9 p.m. Every third Wednesday from 8 to 10 p.m., it’s Live at Frank’s Place, a show hosted by Frank 106.3 FM featuring a local band or musician.

Photos of The Shaskeen on pages 70, 71, 72 and 74 by Sid Ceaser.

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7272 BEST OF 2016 | BEST LIVE MUSIC

4. TRUE BREW BARISTA | BEST OF CONCORD3 Bicentennial Square, Concord, 225-2776, truebrewbarista.comTrue Brew Barista is known for its wide range of live music, which includes rock, pop, Americana, country and jazz. Performers adhere to a strict originals-only rule — no covers allowed. Shows are held Friday and Saturday nights from 9 p.m. to midnight, and most Friday shows are held outside during the summer and early fall. There’s also a monthly solo night that features four to six performers. Thursday, June 23, through Saturday, June 25, during Concord’s Market Days Festival, True Brew will have bands performing outside in the square from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day. Headliners include Trunk of Funk, Boogie on Alice and The Hornets.

3. THE DERRYFIELD RESTAURANT625 Mammoth Road, Manchester, 623-2880, thederryfield.comThe Derryfield Restaurant overlooks the scenic grounds of Derryfield Country Club and hosts live music on its outdoor deck daily during the warmer months. When the deck is closed, shows are held on Friday and Saturday at 9 p.m. Performers are primarily rock cover bands and acoustic artists. Regular acts include Mugsy, Last Kid Picked, Eric Grant Band, Hypercane, Soundtrack to Monday, Jimmy’s Down, Never in Vegas, Radio Star, Chad LaMarsh Band, Without Paris and others.

At left, inside The Shaskeen.

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5. MURPHY’S TAPROOM494 Elm St., Manchester, 644-3535, murphystaproom.netMurphy’s Taproom opened in April 2007. Its large two-story deck seats over 350 people and has live music every day when weather allows. The performers are primarily rock cover bands and acoustic artists. When the deck is open, shows are held Sunday at 9 a.m. (“Sinatra Sunday” brunch) and 2 p.m., Monday through Thursday at 6:30 p.m., and Friday and Saturday at 3 and 7:30 p.m. During the colder months, shows are held on Friday and Saturday at 9:30 p.m. Regular acts include Jamsterdam, Conniption, Take Four, Mugsy, Whiskey Tango, Shana Stack Band, MB Padfield, Brad Bosse, The Molly Maguires and others.

6. RIVERWALK CAFE & MUSIC BAR BEST OF NASHUA35 Railroad Square, Nashua, 578-0200, riverwalknashua.comRiverwalk is a coffee shop, cocktail bar and performance venue all in one space. It hosts bluegrass, Americana, jazz, world, soul and R&B music on Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. On Sunday, there’s Celtic sessions at 1 p.m. and Jazz Sunday at 7 p.m., which features Steve Kirby Band on the first Sunday of the month and Hungry Tree on the second. Some highlight performances in June include acclaimed flatpickers the Bryan Sutton Band on Thursday, June 2, Dwight and Nicole (Nicole was featured on The Voice) on Friday, June 24, and multi-Grammy-nominated bluegrass band the Claire Lynch Band on Saturday, June 25.

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7474 BEST OF 2016 | BEST LIVE MUSIC

7. THE PEDDLER’S DAUGHTER48 Main St., Nashua, 821-7535, thepeddlersdaughter.comThe Peddler’s Daughter is an Irish pub with live music on Friday and Saturday from 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Performers are primarily rock cover bands. Acts on rotation include Down a 5th, Beneath the Sheets, Lovesounds, Mindseye, Take 4, Driving South, Ripcord, 3rd Left, Bob Pratte Band and others.

Shaskeen co-owner Neal Brown.

8. THE PASTA LOFT RESTAURANT241 Union Square, Milford, 672-2270, pastaloft.comThe Pasta Loft hosts live music on Thursday at 7:30 p.m., and Friday and Saturday at 9 p.m., in The Brickhouse, a separate performance room that holds about 50 people. Most of the music falls into the rock, country, folk and classic rock genres, with acoustic acts on Thursday. Original and cover bands are featured. Some highlight performances this summer include national recording artist Rob Benton on Saturday, June 18, and Thursday, July 7, Nashville recording artist Tom Dixon on Friday, July 22, and the Boys of Rockingham on Saturday, Aug. 13.

9. CLUB MANCHVEGAS50 Old Granite St., Manchester, 222-1677, clubmanchvegas.comClub ManchVegas is a bar and dance club with live music Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Thursday from 9 p.m. to midnight is Acoustic Jam Night, hosted by Paul Costley and Nate Comp and featuring new artists every week. Friday is Country Night starting at 9:30 p.m., with a line dancing lesson at 8:30 p.m. Rock cover bands are featured on Saturday at 9:30 p.m.

10. FODY’S GREAT AMERICAN TAVERN9 Clinton St., Nashua, 577-9015, fodystavern.comFody’s Tavern opened in 2004 and is situated in the heart of Railroad Square. It offers live music on Friday and Saturday starting at 9:30 p.m. A variety of music genres are featured, primarily through covers. Hunter, winner of this year’s Hippo Best of poll for Best Local Band, performs at Fody’s every month or two.

603.668.5588 PalaceTheatre.org

Book and lyrics by LEE HALL

2015 - 2016

JUNE 3-25, 2016Winner of 10 Tony Awards

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Distillers of the Antique and Unusual

Available at the distillery or your local NH liquor outlet

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Dine-In • Take-out • Prepared Meals to Go

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Make Every Occasion a Celebration

For 25 years, Celebrations Distinctive Catering has been bringing our food to your neighborhood. Now we invite you to be a guest in our home!

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BEST GOLF COURSE

P ut on your regulation khakis and polo shirt and enjoy the pastoral bentgrass fairways, beverage delivery, upscale dining and rich history that

are the hallmarks of New Hampshire’s many exclusive and public golf courses. These are your top 10.

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2. BEAVER MEADOW GOLF COURSE BEST OF CONCORD1 Beaver Meadow Drive, Concord, 228-8954, beavermeadowgolfcourse.comA municipal golf course open to the public, Beaver Meadow was first used as a golf course in the late 19th century and was expanded to a standard 18-hole course by 1968. Annual membership is $1,305 for individuals and $2,200 for families, with discounts for seniors, juniors and college students. Members enjoy free use of the Loudon Country Club and discounted use of Derryfield and Bethlehem Country Clubs. Beaver Meadow has a driving range and two indoor simulators. The 19th Hole at Beaver Meadow restaurant can be booked for private events. Course hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

1. DERRYFIELD COUNTRY CLUB | BEST OF THE BEST625 Mammoth Road, Manchester, 669-0235, derryfieldgolf.comEstablished in 1932, the Derryfield is one of only three municipal golf courses in New Hampshire. It includes an 18-hole course, a restaurant and bar with an outdoor deck and a venue space that can be used for events of all kinds. If weather is uncooperative, it’s off season or you just want to practice your drive, the Derryfield offers three indoor driving range simulators. Annual membership is available to everyone, with prices ranging from $1,138 for individuals to $2,048 for families. Seniors, juniors and students get a discount but cannot tee off before noon on weekends. It’s $43 per day for nonmembers to use the full 18 holes. The course is open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., but that is subject to change as daylight shifts.

3. MANCHESTER COUNTRY CLUB BEST OF MANCHESTER180 S. River Road, Bedford, 624-4096, manchestercountryclub.comThe 18-hole track at this rare par-71 course was designed by Donald Ross, the so-called “father of American golf course architecture.” Manchester Country Club’s course was completed in 1923, but unlike most courses built around that time, it enjoyed ample space with 116 acres. It also boasts the only 160-degree wraparound simulator within 600 miles. The hours of operation vary based on things like course condition and daylight. They are currently accepting applications for new members. Only guests of members can play without a membership for a daily fee. Contact the membership coordinator to get pricing information.

4. CANDIA WOODS GOLF LINKS313 South Road, Candia, 483-2307, candiawoods.comPerennially selected by Golf Digest for its list of “Among America’s Best Courses,” Candia Woods offers 18 holes and brand new golf carts. The course, which opened in 1964, offers a driving range and a practice putting green. Weekday rates are $36 to walk, $47 to ride. Individual annual membership is $1,600 for weekdays only, $2,200 for all seven days. Candia Woods also offers a unique membership concept it calls Evergreen, wherein golfers can put down a deposit of $1,000 to $1,500 (less for just weekdays or weekends), which is a tab that goes toward a discounted day rate with membership benefits. The course is open roughly from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. based on daylight.

Photos of Derryfield Country Club by Sid Ceaser.

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785. SKY MEADOW COUNTRY CLUB | BEST OF NASHUA

6 Mountain Laurels Drive, Nashua, 888-9000, skymeadow.comSky Meadow is located at the highest point of Nashua; the non-equity private golf club boasts a full-service practice range with a bunker, a putting green and incredible mountain views. Membership can cost as little as $116 per week. A family golf membership is about $600 monthly or $7,200 annually. Cost varies based on age and membership category. Pool, tennis and dining facilities can be accessed through a $1,500 annual recreational membership. The pro shop is open from about 7 a.m. to about 5 p.m., based on sunlight.

6. STONEBRIDGE COUNTRY CLUB161 Gorham Pond Road, Goffstown, 497-8633, golfstonebridgecc.comThis highly acclaimed golf course designed by Phil Wogan in 1987 boasts excellent views of New England countryside, a regulation course with a 71 rating and a championship course with a 72.9 rating. It also offers a putting green and a driving range. The public club offers annual membership packages between $1,395 and $4,695 (see website for details) and a dining room, bar and function rooms for rent. To play 18 holes on a weekday it costs $32 to walk, $49 to ride.

7. ATKINSON RESORT AND COUNTRY CLUB85 Country Club Drive, Atkinson, 362-8700, atkinsonresort.comA 420-acre public golf course nestled among rolling hills, Atkinson Resort and Country Club was built in the 1990s. In addition to its 18-hole, par-72 course, it offers a driving range and virtual golf. You can grab a bite and drink at Merrill’s Tavern or the Stagecoach Grille. For individuals golfing during the weekdays, the daily fee is $58; it’s $68 on weekends. Various membership packages are available such as the Silver ($895) or Platinum ($3,800) packages, which both offer up to three additional guests per member and unlimited use of the course and practice facilities. Tee times are usually from 7 or 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

At left, a golfer takes a swing at the Derryfield Country Club.

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808. NASHUA COUNTRY CLUB

25 Fairway St., Nashua, 888-0121, nashuacountryclub.comFounded in 1916, the Nashua Country Club rebuilt its championship golf course in 2009. It offers a heated Olympic pool, tennis courts, the only curling rink in the state and upscale dining at the Hampshire Room and Grille. Membership rates at the private club vary, and there is currently a waiting list. The course is open from sun up to sun down and the clubhouse is open 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

9. CONCORD COUNTRY CLUB22 Country Club Lane, Concord, 228-0232, concordcountryclub.orgFounded in 1930, the Concord Country Club moved across the Merrimack River after being the private portion of the Beaver Meadow Country Club for 30 years. Membership is limited to 355 and application requires a $250 wait list fee. It has an 18-hole par-70 course with an optional par-72 starting point and a driving range. The bar lounge stays open later during the warmer months but stops holding regular hours after the course closes for the season. It can still be booked for private events. The course opens at sunrise and the last tee-off is around 5 p.m. (around 6 p.m. in summer) for the shorter nine-hole course.

10. CANTERBURY WOODS COUNTRY CLUB15 West Road, Canterbury, 983-9400, canterburywoodscc.comUtilizing the existing terrain, designer Ross Forbes created the 18-hole, 35-acre Canterbury Woods golf course for beginners and experienced golfers. The public country club, which held its first full season in 2001, also offers a 300-yard practice range that can accommodate up to 30 golfers at a time. It’s $35 daily for walkers between Monday and Thursday, $45 for riders. Cart rates will increase by $10 after June 1. Membership is $1,500 for individuals and $2,300 for families. Seniors, juniors and college students get a discount. The course is open 6 a.m. to dark. Canterbury Tavern was recently renovated and now offers 12 varieties of draft beer. The tavern is open from 8 p.m. to as late as 10 p.m.

At left, a golfer at the Derryfield Country Club.

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82

IN NEW HAMPSHIRE, YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT YOU’RE GOING TO GET.That’s what one Hippo reader said when voting for the “four

seasons” as their favorite thing about living in New Hampshire. While readers praised our geography and natural beauty, our relatively low taxes and “live free or die” spirit, the four distinct seasons in New Hampshire won “best” in the Best Thing About Living in NH category, and all four of the seasons had their supporters, including the person who specifically liked “late spring and fall” and the voter who said “winter skiing, summer hiking.”

Looking for more ways to mark the seasons? The events that readers picked in the Best Community Event and Best Food Festival categories also serve as standout days for each of New Hampshire’s four spectacular seasons.

Just before spring turns into summer, check out the Rock ‘n Ribfest, scheduled for Friday, June 17, through Sunday, June 19, in 2016. Held at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery (221 DW Highway in Merrimack), the Ribfest (ribfestnh.com), which was a runner-up in the Best Food Festival category, features three days of barbecue, music, a road race and more.

On the other side of the summer solstice, the Market Days Festival (intownconcord.org) in downtown Concord will run Thursday, June 23, through Saturday, June 25, this year on Main Street, the statehouse lawn and other locations. Check out the food, music, family activities and more at this event, which won Best of Concord in the Best Community Event category.

In late summer, check out the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival (hamptonbeachseafoodfestival.com), held on Ocean Boulevard on Hampton Beach Friday, Sept. 9, through Sunday, Sept. 11. This celebration of all things seafood — clam cakes, grilled shrimp, all kinds of takes on a lobster roll — won best in the Best Food Festival category and regularly features more than 60 seacoast restaurants.

Just before the calendar officially turns to fall, head to St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral (650 Hanover St. in Manchester) for Glendi, the church’s annual festival of Greek food, music, dancing and did we mention food? This celebration of baklava, gyro, barbecued lamb and more won honorable mention in the Best Food Festival category and will run this year from Friday, Sept. 16, through Sunday, Sept. 18.

As the leaves change and fall kicks into gear, check out the state’s celebrations of autumn and Halloween. The Milford Pumpkin Festival (milfordpumpkinfestival.org), which won Best of Nashua for Best Community Event features all manner of pumpkin fun — pumpkin painting, a giant pumpkin weigh in, pumpkin sales and even a pumpkin catapult — as well as live music, fireworks, food, kid and family activities and more. Scheduled this year for Friday, Oct. 7, through Sunday, Oct. 9, the event is held in the Milford Oval and locations through the town.

The Best of Manchester winner in the Best Community Event category is the Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off and Regatta in Goffstown (goffstownmainstreet.org), which runs this year Saturday, Oct. 15, and Sunday, Oct. 16. The highlight of this pumpkin celebration is the race of pumpkin boats down the Piscataquog River.

And while it’s not quite officially winter, the normally chilly weather and a focus on the holidays makes the Winter Holiday Stroll (downtownnashua.org ) in Nashua a kick-off to the season. Scheduled this year for Saturday, Nov. 26, this winner of the Best Community Event category features music, food, shopping, live entertainment and a candlelight stroll in the downtown of the Gate City.

No matter what time of year is your favorite, New Hampshire’s calendar is packed with seasonal fun.

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