New Hampshire Best Local Secrets 2011

BEST BEACH SNACK
Tripoli Pizza Cannolis, Seabrook
Although Tripoli is known mostly for its pizza–and justifiably so–the kitchen’s cannolis get rave reviews, too. These creamy tubular confections are just the thing to reward yourself with after a vigorous day of swimming. Three flavors: traditional ricotta, chocolate pudding, and vanilla pudding ($1 each). 418 Route 286. 603-474-7764

BEST FLOWER FARM
Harmon Hill Farm,Hudson
Like a floral Brigadoon, this family farm appears each summer with 3,000 varieties of daylilies bearing magical names such as “A Day at the Peach,” “Arctic Swan,” and “Eye of the Beholder.” Even if you don’t garden, it’s a great place to just, you know, smell the flowers. 49 Ledge Road. 603-880-6228; harmonhillfarm.com

BEST GAMING EXPERIENCE
American Classic Arcade Museum,Laconia
Asteroids? Check. Donkey Kong? Of course. Ms. Pac Man? You bet. They’re all here–more than 250 classic arcade games–at this one-of-a-kind museum dedicated to preserving the idea that you can still find an inordinate amount of pleasure for just a quarter. 579 Endicott St. North. 603-366-4377; classicarcademuseum.org

BEST HISTORY HIKE
Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum,Warner
It’s an amazing small museum containing a broad range of art and artifacts documenting the continent’s first settlers. After your visit, stretch your legs on the equally educational Medicine Woods Nature Trail, where you’ll learn more about the plants that were instrumental to Native Americans. 18 Highlawn Road. 603-456-2600; indianmuseum.org

BEST TO-GO MEAL
Collins Brothers Chowder Co.,Nashua
Local Nashua-area residents and regular visitors know that each Thursday through Saturday they can line up at this small storefront and sample the dozens of homemade soups in ready-to-go containers, including favorites such as the surprisingly good “Thanksgiving soup” (think roast turkey, gravy, and stuffing), Hungarian mushroom, and fish chowder. 59 Temple St. 603-883-2347