The best bars & nightlife in Waterford

High Rollers Luxury Lanes & Sports Lounge brings a nostalgic Vegas vibe to Foxwoods with PBA regulation lanes, plush banquettes, and wall-to-wall screens for games and music videos.

From the Ledyard newsletter, October 1, 2026

When you want something cold and fun, The Neon Palm Daiquiri Bar at Foxwoods serves mix-and-match frozen flavors like piña colada, mango and frosé, all available booze-free too, plus insulated souvenir cups or the 35 oz yard so you can keep sipping as you wander the concourse.

From the Ledyard newsletter, September 21, 2026

Holmberg Winery turns their own orchards and vineyard into crisp grape and fruit wines plus light, English-style sparkling ciders that actually taste like fruit. Think Pinot Blanc and Gewurztraminer, off-dry fruit wines with 0 to 4% residual sugar, and 16 oz tall boy ciders in six flavors for backyard hangs.

From the Norwich newsletter, October 17, 2026

Laid-back spot for pub grub & a full bar offering 28 tap beers, plus pool & sports on 20 TVs.

Groton’s Dark Waters Distillery has been turning locally sourced grain into small-batch whiskey, brandies, and vodka since 2018, leaning on old-world know-how and modern precision.

From the Groton newsletter, October 16, 2026

Tuskers nails that dark-and-cozy energy with live music, expertly crafted cocktails, and vibrant, shareable bites with an Asian fusion bent. Think tuna tacos, the BKK Roll with spicy mayo and kimchee sauce, and a solid Manhattan, perfect for Waterford locals ready to trade the couch for an elevated evening.

From the New London newsletter, October 21, 2026

Tox Brewing Company is a brewer-owned New London hang blending craft and science into carefully crafted, experimental beers that go down easy. Hit the coffee bar or pizza, then stick around for special releases and community events... it’s a versatile spot when the group can’t decide.

From the New London newsletter, October 15, 2026

Outer Light Brewing Company has been a Groton staple since 2015, pouring a diverse beer lineup in a laid-back, welcoming taproom that feels built for after-work catchups and weekend hangs, and their brewer-to-beer-lover oath shows in every pour.

From the Groton newsletter, October 3, 2026

If you're into no-frills pints, friendly regulars, and the kind of place where the staff remembers your usual, Ryan's Pub in Groton calls itself "The Best Little Dive" and backs it up. Expect straightforward drinks, bar bites from their menu, and a laid-back spot to unwind after work or catch up with neighbors.

From the Groton newsletter, October 20, 2026

Game Time Sports Bar and Restaurant packs wall-to-wall sports, arcade vibes, and weekly karaoke/live music into a spot perfect for catching every matchup with friends.

From the Ledyard newsletter, October 4, 2026

Since 1933, Dutch Tavern has been the kind of neighborhood spot where cold beer, a no-fuss lunch, and plenty of baseball chatter keep the day humming. If you want history with your pint and stories from regulars who actually remember it, this is your place.

From the New London newsletter, October 7, 2026

Small but lively, The Oasis Pub nails the sweet spot with 20 drafts, 60+ cans, plus quirky canned cocktails, social tonics, and CBD or mushroom drinks. Emerging bands and DJs on the weekends keep it loud in the best way, so you can drink local and hear tomorrow’s favorites first.

From the Waterford newsletter, October 11, 2026

Craft beer brewed on-site and elevated pub fare served in a rustic, industrial-chic tavern, These Guys Brewing at American Wharf is the easy yes when friends ask where to meet. Lunch and dinner menus, beers on tap, cocktails and wine, plus events or private bookings when plans escalate.

From the Norwich newsletter, October 6, 2026

If your week needs a vibe upgrade, Strange Brew Pub packs live entertainment, 100+ beers, and a full bar into a space that doubles as an art gallery, game room, and lounge. Rally your crew, catch a set, discover a new favorite pour, call it a win.

From the Norwich newsletter, October 2, 2026

When the week calls for extra, Sugar Factory Foxwoods brings the spectacle with candy-filled goblets, over-the-top Insane Shakes, stacked burgers, and old-school sundaes. Grab a couple friends, lean into the sugar rush, and turn an ordinary night into a mini celebration.

From the Ledyard newsletter, October 15, 2026

Whether you're craving true wood-fired pizza from a stone-brick oven or a laid back bar and grill hangout, Modelo Bar & Grill is part of the Bella Fiore family right here in Norwich, doing it right since 1993. Slide in for Italian comfort food, sip something nice, and make this week easy.

From the Ledyard newsletter, October 13, 2026

36 Town Grill & Tap is your move when the week needs a win, with giant burgers, hot lobster rolls, baked stuffed shrimp, fish and chips, ribeye, and cozy hitters like lobster mac and cheese, meatloaf, and pot roast. Settle in, bring a friend, leave happy.

From the Norwich newsletter, October 22, 2026

Fat Cat Grill & Bar is that reliable Norwich go-to when you want a legit burger, a surprisingly good pizza, or a plate of Italian comfort like Chicken Parm without fuss. Weekend brunch is lively, and online ordering makes busy weeknights easier. Expect easygoing vibes and big-flavor bar classics.

From the Norwich newsletter, October 13, 2026