The Oakdale Theater on South Turnpike Road has been the place to go for entertainment since 1954. It started as a small theater in a tent with canvas roof and round stage in the middle. The seats were old wooden bleacher seats that pushed up to make room to walk in the isle. It attracted a lot of top comedy acts and musical performers through the 70s. In 1972 a permanent roof was put in and the seating capacity doubled to 3200.
In 1996, the theater was completely remodeled and the old theater is now the lobby for a larger theater that is open all year round. Though not the same feel as the old theater, but Oakdale Theater brings good entertainment to central Connecticut at a reasonable price.
Established in 2006, On Track Karting provides adults and children the opportunity to race go-carts like a formula one racer. Itstrack is unique because it is completely indoors. The adult carts maxes out at 40 miles per hour and the children's karts at 25 miles per hour. It offers a variety different daily specials.
The Samuel Parsons House, built in 1759, was originally a tavern, and was a stop for stages traveling from Boston and New York. It was donated to the Wallingford History Society in 1920. Today the Parsons House is used by the society as a museum. Hours for the museum are seasonal, running Memorial Day until Labor Day. Group tours are given throughout the year.
The Paul Mellon Arts Center, located on the campus of Choate Rosemary Hall, was designed by architect I.M. Pei. Among the marvels it houses are state-of-the-art studios for various mediums, film studios and photography darkrooms, a recital hall and an 800-seat theatre with a proscenium (archway) stage.
Performances, both guest and student productions, and exhibitions are held regularly. For schedule and ticket information, the box office is open from 1pm - 4pm daily.
Handicapped seating is available and must be reserved through the box office.
Founded by Sue Murphy, The Artists' Loft is a non-profit studio where students can develop their artistic abilities while giving back to the community. Classes are available for watercolors, pastels, acrylics, colored pencils, oil crayons and charcoal. Summer camps are also offered, and donations are accepted.
Founded in 1919, Robert Juliat is a manufacturer of theater lighting equipment. The company has created several breakthrough products in the luminary field and offers digital dimmers, theater spotlights, followspots, fluorescent lights and accessories.
