New Hampshire Best Bargains 2012

BEST FREE HIKING GEAR
Appalachian Mountain Club Highland Center at Crawford Notch, Bretton Woods
Don’t let any lack of equipment stop you from exploring the White Mountains: Free gear from L.L. Bean is offered to all guests. Rest assured, these aren’t your older sibling’s hand-me-downs. We’re talking top-of-the-line goodies like sleeping bags, backpacks, hiking boots, and more. Rates vary by lodging type (communal bunkroom, lodge bunkroom, private lodge) and meal plan. Off Route 302. 603-278-4453; outdoors.org

BEST KIDDIE CONE
Kimball Farm,Jaffrey
Parents get their money’s worth with immense kids’ portions of homemade ice-cream flavors such as raspberry-chocolate chip and peanut-butter chocolate. And if that’s not enough to win over the younger set, look for low-flying propeller plans coming in for a landing at Silver Ranch Airpark next door. Kiddie cone: $3.75. 158 Turnpike Road. 603-532-5765; kimballfarm.com

BEST SURFING DEMO
Cinnamon Rainbows Surf Company, Hampton
If you’re in the market for a new surfboard or paddleboard, every Tuesday and Friday night in June-August you can paddle around and test out boards for free, with an expert on hand to see which board is best for you. 931 Ocean Blvd. 603-929-7467; cinnamonrainbows.com

BEST CURE FOR CURIOSITY
Margret & H. A. Rey Center & Curious George Cottage, Waterville Valley
Named for Curious George authors Margret and H. A. Rey, who spent summers in Waterville Valley, the Rey Center offers a smorgasbord of free delights. Stop by for storytime every Saturday, or visit for free Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Donations accepted. 35 Village Road, Building C. 603-236-3308; thereycenter.org

BEST FABRIC FEST
Keepsake Quilting, Center Harbor
Fabric aficionados flock to the annual sale here (June 1-2 this year), when tents are filled with bargains and a chance to fill your own scrap bag for under $5. If you can’t make the sale, don’t worry: The outlet offers discontinued fabrics year-round. Senter’s Marketplace, off Route 25B. 800-438-5464, 603-253-9064; keepsakequilting.com