Technology is changing the world at a rapid pace. From smartphones and sports simulators to virtual reality and “4D” attractions, most current entertainment is offered on a screen. But at Stumpy’s Hatchet House – Fairfield, they keep things old school. How? By offering axe throwing as a fun way to compete with friends, family, or coworkers.
This alternative form of recreation is perfect for adventure seekers looking for a productive way to relieve stress; as well as an adrenaline rush. Axe throwing is also a great bonding activity for groups. “What are you gonna do? Go to a bar, restaurant?” says Stumpy’s Hatchet House – Fairfield Partner Mike Metzger. “Well, we combine all that with a fun activity to do during your visit.”
More from Best of NJ
Great for Groups
Sumpy’s Hatchet House – Fairfield is a fun way to de-stress and enjoy some healthy competition. For example, it’s a popular choice for birthdays, date night, team-building, and both bachelor and bachelorette parties. “About 45 percent of our guests are female, which most people are surprised to hear,” says Metzger. “In fact, I think we do more bachelorette parties than bachelor parties.”
In addition, the venue hosts many fundraising and charity events throughout the year, and donates to tricky tray events, too. They even offer large discounts for groups when they host fundraising events at Stumpy’s Hatchet House – Fairfield.
Stumpy’s brought the country’s first hatchet house to Eatontown in 2015. The Fairfield location then became the second Stumpy’s, opening in 2018. Now, there are 30 locations around the country. “It has taken off because it’s a new entertainment activity that is designed for adults,” Metzger explains. “It reminds people of bowling, but it takes on a new rugged angle that lets people release their inner lumberjack. It’s basically like darts on steroids.”
How to Enjoy Stumpy’s Hatchet House
Stumpy’s Hatchet House – Fairfield offers 11 throwing pits as well as one outdoor pit that’s available seasonally. Each group receives their own throwing pit, regardless of size, so groups never have to combine. “Even before the pandemic, we never combined groups,” Metzger says. “Even if it’s two guests on a date night, every group has their own pit.”
Getting started is as simple as a short training session before playing. In a standard round, each person takes turns throwing an axe. Players then record points based on their performance. The first person to reach 21 points wins. Players are free to customize the experience, adjust the point values, and even reverse the objective; for instance, making the bullseye worth only one point and the outer ring worth five points. Click here to take a virtual tour.
However, Stumpy’s Hatchet House – Fairfield isn’t all about competition. “We focus on Stumpy’s being home of the Social Throwdown,” says Metzger. “We want our guests to have fun during their visit. That is our primary focus. Now that being said, if our guests wanna run a kick-axe tournament, we are down for that as well. But we let the guests dictate how they want their experience to be.”
About Stumpy’s
Stumpy’s is BYO and allows food, beer, wine, seltzer, and soft drinks (but no hard alcohol). “We put all your drinks on ice,” Metzger adds. Meanwhile, families with teenagers can reserve a time slot on Sundays. “This evolved from our customers asking for a time to bring their children,” says Metzger. “So, Sundays have turned into family day.”
Visit Stumpy’s Hatchet House – Fairfield at 373 US-46 West, Suite D140, in Fairfield. (Click here to see them on Google Maps.) To learn more: Click here to visit their website | Follow them on Facebook | Click to give them a call.
Click here to find the latest New Jersey services.
All Photos: © Stumpy’s Hatchet House – Fairfield