Fun Local Places To Go This Winter

Julia Conant, Arts & Entertainment Editor

When the weather outside is frightful, staying at home sounds so delightful. But just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you can’t go out and have fun during the winter. Here’s a list of some local indoor places to hang out when you feel yourself coming down with cabin fever.

Trampoline Parks

Those who have been to a trampoline park before know how much of a sweat it can work up. And sweating can be the perfect way to combat the chilly weather. As of early Jan., there are now two trampoline parks in New Britain. There’s Flight Fit N Fun at 140 Production Ct, which has been located there for years. But a new trampoline park, Funcity has recently opened in New Brite Plaza, where Ocean State Job Lot used to be. The exact address is 60 E. Main St.

Newington Arena

Whether you’ve been skating for years or you like falling on your butt 20 times in one hour, ice skating has something for everyone. Located eight minutes away from Central is Newington Arena, which offers public skate hours for anyone to use the rink, typically in one hour time slots. Skates are also available to rent for $3. Newington Arena is located at 300 Alumni Rd in Newington.

Laser Quest

You’re never too old to chase your friends or strangers around with a laser gun. And luckily, Laser Quest is right on the Berlin Turnpike. There you can roam around their multiple-level arena and take shots at anyone in your path. The Berlin Turnpike is littered with restaurants as well, so after laser tag wears you out you can grab a bite to eat. Laser Quest is located at 3005 Berlin Turnpike in Newington.

Lessard Lanes

Bowling is a classic go-to when brainstorming indoor activities, but that doesn’t make it any less fun. Lessard Lanes in Plainville isn’t too far of a drive away and they offer more than just bowling. A couple years ago, Lessard Lanes took out several bowling lanes and put in an indoor mini golf course. Lessard Lanes is located at 136 New Britain Ave in Plainville.

Dave & Busters

If jumping on trampolines, ice skating, laser tag and bowling are too physical for you, maybe arcade games are more your speed. If you’re willing to drive a slightly further distance, Dave & Busters is 23 minutes away from Central. It is also located next to Buckland Hills Mall, so you could make a day out of shopping and playing arcade games. It is located at 100 Buckland Hills Dr in Manchester.

CCSU

And finally, you could have fun at Central if you know where to look. If you’re looking for more athletic activities, Kaiser pool offers free swim hours, and free fitness classes will be held in the brand new fitness studio. If not, Breakers game room in the Student Center has pool tables, ping pong, air hockey and foosball. Lastly, the Esports lounge in Memorial Hall has many computers and gaming systems available to even students who aren’t in Esports club.

The moral of the story here is that you don’t have to travel far or be outdoors to have fun.