Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Waterbury, Connecticut

Situated in Northwest Connecticut, Waterbury is a city with a profound manufacturing heritage, famously referred to as the Brass City. Brass was indeed the principal industry throughout the 19th century, until clockmaking assumed a dominant role.

With manufacturing largely in the past, downtown Waterbury now presents a unique blend of historical and contemporary elements, featuring grand 19th-century architecture and a vibrant cultural scene.

In this regard, the Mattatuck Museum captivates me with its exceptional collections, alongside the Palace Theater, which serves as a premier entertainment venue in the city. Both attractions are centrally located, with the area having retained its central green since the 1680s.

The presence of several universities, including UConn and Post University, contributes additional youthful energy to Waterbury.

Let us delve into the top activities to experience in Waterbury:

1. The Palace Theater

Source: flickr

This intricately designed Renaissance Revival theater serves as a beautiful landmark for downtown Waterbury. After a prolonged closure from the 1980s, the Palace Theater, established in 1921, was revitalized in the 2000s, transforming into a hub for performing arts.

As one of only two remaining venues established by theater magnate Sylvester Z. Poli (1858-1937), it is recognized as the finest example of his work.

The theater features an eclectic array of performances ranging from Broadway musicals to concerts, live comedy, author presentations, children’s shows, and much more.

I had the pleasure of attending a performance by El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico recently. Upon entering the opulent, gilded auditorium, I was astounded that such a gem had remained dormant for two decades.

2. Mattatuck Museum

Source: flickr

For those interested in exploring the rich history of the Central Naugatuck Valley, the Mattatuck Museum Arts and History Center provides an in-depth experience.

This museum features a diverse range of collections, highlighting everything from artwork by Alexander Calder to historical brass buttons.

It also houses the significant collections of the renowned Waterbury Button Company, which includes over 15,000 buttons—a fascinating glimpse into Waterbury’s historical context.

Art exhibits predominantly reflect Connecticut’s heritage. During my visit, the exhibition “Uprooted” showcased works by two Afghan artists, displaced due to the Taliban’s resurgence in 2021.

3. Waterbury Green

Source: flickr

Downtown Waterbury culminates at this rectangular expanse of greenery. Waterbury Green spans 2 acres and serves as the city’s symbolic focal point.

True to its name, the park occupies what was originally the town commons, established in the 17th century. The initial structures have been lost to successive waves of development, particularly industrialization.

Nevertheless, it is intriguing to consider all the historic events that have taken place at this site, including troop rallies, demonstrations, and speeches from influential figures such as JFK and Robert Kennedy.

A noteworthy monument within the park is the Soldiers’ Monument (1884) at the west end. This 48-foot pillar, crowned with a bronze Winged Victory, pays tribute to local veterans of the Civil War.

4. Downtown Waterbury

A rewarding way to explore Waterbury is by taking a stroll around the compact downtown area. Currently undergoing a significant regeneration, downtown Waterbury reflects the city’s diverse character, merging cultural elements, dining options, shopping venues, and interesting sights.

Several prominent landmarks that warrant mention include the Elton Hotel (1904), the grand Municipal Center (1914-1922), and the John Kendrick House (1860s)—all part of the Mattatuck Museum.

Over 130 buildings contribute to the historic district, interspersed with more contemporary architecture. The downtown area offers ample entertainment options, as well as a variety of dining establishments.

5. Library Park

Source: mapio

The largest green space at the center of Waterbury surrounds the Silas Bronson Library. During my visit, Library Park had recently been renovated, featuring flowerbeds, a winding pathway, and a small plaza area adjacent to the library.

Aside from being a verdant gathering spot, it serves as a venue for outdoor events in the city. It is advisable to check local listings while in town to see what events are scheduled. A major highlight on the calendar is the Brass City Jazz Festival, held in August.

At other times, the park is ideal for summer picnics, conveniently located near local eateries, and offers views of Union Station’s tower rising to the east.

6. Seven Angels Theatre

Source: sevenangelstheatre

Recognized as the sole professional theater in the region, Seven Angels Theatre currently hosts approximately 200 performances annually.

Operating for several decades, the theater presents productions that resonate with community preferences, encompassing works ranging from Shakespearean plays to contemporary dramas and musicals, featuring talented professionals from across the country.

Additionally, patrons can look forward to community productions, concerts, tribute performances, and various specialty acts.

If you seek to experience the arts in Waterbury, this venue is certainly worth a visit. Given the quality of performances, ticket prices are reasonable, and the venue itself occupies a charming historical building in Hamilton Park.

7. Hop Brook Lake

Source: flickr

Located at the southern edge of Waterbury, this 270-acre lake extends into two neighboring communities, Naugatuck and Middlebury.

The lake was formed following the construction of a dam across Hop Brook in the 1960s, leading to the development of a 500-acre recreational area featuring a sandy beach, trails, and picnic spots.

This aquatic habitat hosts an abundance of local fish species, including largemouth bass and panfish, with trout being stocked each year. Thus, if fishing is your passion, this is an excellent destination.

For an extended outdoor experience, I recommend hiking the Larkin State Park Trail, which has its trailhead conveniently located nearby.

8. Waterbury Symphony Orchestra

Source: waterburysymphony

Based at Naugatuck Valley Community College, this esteemed ensemble was founded in 1938.

The orchestra is committed to spreading the enjoyment and appreciation of classical music throughout Northwest Connecticut, featuring an exceptional series of concerts each season, showcasing 100 talented performers from across New England.

Performances are hosted at the college’s Fine Arts Center and other locations around Litchfield County, including the Palace Theatre. I particularly enjoy their collaborations that combine live music with film presentations.

This may include festive screenings of classics such as “Home Alone” or live soundtracks accompanying silent films like “The General.”

9. Bank Street Historic District

Source: wikipedia

Located in downtown Waterbury, this intriguing row of commercial buildings lies between Market Square and Grand Street.

As the cityscape has evolved, these four turn-of-the-century structures have withstood the test of time.

This terrace features a unique example of a Queen Anne-style commercial building, the Griggs Building from 1884, adorned with gabled dormers and Corinthian pilasters.

Additionally, you will find one of only three instances of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture in Waterbury located at the northern end of the row.

10. Union Station

Source: flickr

Throughout my exploration of downtown Waterbury, my attention was consistently drawn to the elegant 240-foot tower of the city’s historic train station.

Situated on Meadow Street, Union Station (1909) stands as the most iconic structure in Waterbury, symbolizing the city’s affinity for timekeeping.

The clock tower, established in 1909, comprises over 300 steps to reach the summit. The design features gargoyles resembling she-wolves, inspired by the 14th-century Torre del Mangia in Siena, Italy.

Previously a bustling passenger depot for the New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad, the building currently serves as the headquarters of the local Republican American newspaper.

11. Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

If I had to select a favorite structure in downtown Waterbury, it would undoubtedly be this church situated on the green. The Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is a striking Roman Catholic edifice, constructed in 1928.

Designed by the Boston-based firm Maginnis & Walsh, the building draws inspiration from Rome’s Baroque Basilica of Saint Mary Major.

Regardless of your religious beliefs, it is worthwhile to venture inside to appreciate its grandeur, exemplified by the magnificent depiction of Christ in Majesty in the apse and the exquisite baldachin below.

12. Municipal Stadium

Source: rep-am

Having a keen interest in baseball history, I often seek out ballfields with intriguing stories to tell.

Established in 1930, Waterbury Stadium, officially known as Municipal Stadium, initially functioned as a dog racing track before becoming the home of various local Minor League teams, such as the Waterbury Timers.

This venue has hosted several sports legends, including Joe DiMaggio and Yogi Berra during an exhibition game in 1947.

The stadium continues to host events today, supporting youth programs like the Waterbury Gamecocks, with a capacity exceeding 6,000 spectators.

13. Hancock Brook Trail

It is easy to overlook that Waterbury’s bustling downtown is just minutes away from serene natural landscapes. The closest access to nature can be found on the Blue-Blazed trail adjacent to Hancock Brook in Waterville.

The trail features a unique linear loop consisting of two parallel paths connecting at the northern and southern ends, totaling 2.8 miles. Along this brief journey, the views from the 660-foot high point, Lion Head, are particularly breathtaking.

Additionally, remnants of 19th-century industry are present, including vestiges of a railroad track that was established alongside the river in 1850.

14. Lakewood Lanes

Source: youtube

For a leisurely outing in Waterbury, Lakewood Lanes is a popular destination for locals. This bowling alley is the largest in the vicinity.

Operating for over 60 years, Lakewood Lanes encompasses 42 lanes, ensuring availability for visitors. These lanes feature a synthetic surface and were well-maintained during my visit.

Every Saturday, a Junior League program is held to introduce young bowlers to the sport, while weekend evenings offer a lively Galaxy Bowling experience, complete with music and dimmed lights.

Moreover, Lakewood Lanes features an arcade with various games, a prize redemption center, and a snack bar offering classic comfort foods.

15. Waterbury RollerMagic

Source: rollermagicct

This venue is ideal for enjoying traditional roller skating. Waterbury RollerMagic boasts a remarkably smooth maple skating surface, providing an effortless skating experience, even for beginners.

Skate rentals are available, including both traditional skates and rollerblades, allowing for a fun experience during public skate sessions. Wednesday evenings are designated for Family Skate, while Friday and Saturday nights feature extended hours.

The facility also includes an arcade filled with diverse games, a prize redemption area, and a full-service snack bar for when hunger strikes.