The best things to do in Naugatuck Valley Planning Region

“Hop Brook Golf Course is a well-manicured nine-hole muni in Naugatuck with well-kept greens, tee times up to 14 days out, and the Hop Brook Players Club, lessons, and junior camps. Ideal for a quick after-work loop or casual outing that still feels legit.”

From the Waterbury newsletter, September 26, 2026

“Connecticut's only full-length par 3 course lighted for night play, Highland Greens Golf Course is perfect for a quick tune-up or a full bag challenge. Welcoming to all skill levels and known for fun league vibes, it’s an easy go-to when you want real golf without the half-day commitment.”

From the Cheshire newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Small bowling alley featuring duckpins with beer & wine, snack food & an arcade.”

“Established in 1900, Highland Golf Club gives you rolling hills and target greens on a pristinely conditioned Frank G. Gates design, just minutes from downtown Shelton. This week, cap it off in the brand-new clubhouse with bar, dining, and a covered patio by the firepit...”

From the Shelton newsletter, September 27, 2026

“Laser Planet brings New England's largest multi-level, space-themed laser tag arena, plus UFO bumper cars, VR rides, and an arcade that feeds your inner ticket hoarder. Round up the crew, settle some friendly grudges, and treat the kids, or yourself, to bragging rights.”

From the Waterbury newsletter, October 9, 2026

“Whether you’re in the mood for music, comedy, or family shows, Downtown Live at the Rockwell Theater keeps the calendar stacked September through May with crowd-pleasing performances in a historic local landmark right here in Bristol. It’s the kind of place you suggest once and end up going to all season.”

From the Bristol newsletter, October 7, 2026

“Brass City Raceway & Axe Throwing keeps Waterbury weekends lively with 12-lap heats on one of Connecticut’s longest indoor tracks, then axe lanes, a swing-at-will driving range, arcade, Glow Throws, and the Karaoke Garage. Round up the crew, talk a little smack, and make it a friendly championship.”

From the Waterbury newsletter, September 24, 2026

“Large-scale indoor trampoline center hosting open jump, fitness classes, dodgeball & parties.”

“Quassy Amusement & Waterpark is the easy win this week when you need kid thrills and adult chill, with classic rides, Splash Away Bay water slides, and legit lakeside beach time on Lake Quassapaug. It’s designed for simple, affordable fun, plus cabanas if you’re embracing your inner lounge lizard.”

From the Waterbury newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Extreme Paintball has been dialing up the fun since 1992 with speedball and woods ball fields, solid refs who keep teams fair, and gear rentals if you’re light on equipment. Try open play when you’re short a squad, or book a private game for birthdays and bragging rights.”

From the Waterbury newsletter, October 6, 2026

“Wine and Cheese Social LLC is a cozy event spot with a Local Wine & Cocktail Social Bar, a sweets menu, and a gorgeous 1828 setting featuring Italian tile floors, an Irish-crafted bar top, and a restored bank vault where friendly ghosts allegedly mingle.”

From the Waterbury newsletter, September 30, 2026

“Founded in 1899 and known for golf etiquette that keeps rounds under four hours, the Country Club of Waterbury blends classic fairways with a first-class spot for dining and member events. If you’ve been craving a timeless home base for your game, this is your move.”

From the Waterbury newsletter, October 14, 2026

“Need a quick, no-planning-needed outing this week? SportsCenter of Connecticut packs mini golf, Lazer Tag, ice skating and hockey, a Toptracer Golf Range, bowling, a video arcade and more into one spot, with over 20 adventures indoors and outdoors that keep the crew smiling all year.”

From the Milford newsletter, August 21, 2026

“If you need an easy win this week, Lakewood Lanes blends 42 slick lanes, Galaxy Bowling, a legit arcade with ticket prizes, and the Sports Rock Bar for pool, darts, and their own New England IPA, Life in the Gutter... grab your crew and roll.”

From the Waterbury newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Chippanee Golf Club delivers a fun, challenging 18-hole round on 150 acres of rolling terrain about 900 feet up, plus a newly renovated clubhouse that stares down the first fairway and Bristol’s hills. Bonus for families, there’s Har-Tru tennis, an Olympic-size pool, and solid on-site dining.”

From the Torrington newsletter, October 10, 2026

“Large bowling center featuring burgers, pizzas and beer, plus a laser tag arena and an arcade.”

“Whether you're wrangling kids, co-workers, or your competitive streak, Fork and Band Slingshot turns slingshots into a full-on indoor shooting gallery with reactive targets that spin, ring, and light up across Carnival, Outer Space, Sports, and Showtime lanes.”

From the Bristol newsletter, October 3, 2026

“Informal space boasting trampolines, slides, a ninja course, dodgeball games and basketball hoops.”