While on our road trip traveling up to Massachusetts, we passed a Bass Pro Shop and I made a mental note of it. On our way back home we needed to stop for lunch and it was perfect timing to make a pit stop off of exit 29 off of I-95 in Bridgeport, Connecticut. I have always enjoyed taking the boys to the Bass Pro Shop in Arundel Mills because it’s free adventurous fun. My little sailors love climbing on to the boats and pretending they are at sea. They also enjoy hopping on an ATV and imagining that they are a part of the Paw Patrol on a mission.

Even though I had been in a Bass Pro Shop before I was quite taken aback by the planning of this particular location. Creative and vibrant hand painted murals wrap around the entire store with scenes that depict the beauty of Connecticut.  As you tour the store don’t forget to check out the amazing freshwater aquarium, beautiful waterfalls and wildlife mounts. Fish feedings take place most Saturdays at 2:00 p.m. I was surprised that there is also an in house archery range.

Don’t worry about stopping at two different places for entertainment and lunch because it is all right in one location. I had never been to a Bass Pro Shop with a restaurant before. This location features Uncle Bucks Fishbowl and Grill. Be prepared to be astonished as you step foot into the dining area. You will feel like you are underwater with the amazing murals and life size aquarium decor. You can dine in the restaurant or eat your food while bowling or playing a round of pool. There are 12 lanes each uniquely designed so that the ball returns are shaped like different creatures. Our ball release looked like a crocodile, but others were shaped like sharks and octopi.