Tucked away in the rolling hills of southeastern Connecticut, Foxwoods Resort Casino stands as a monumental testament to the fusion of Native American heritage and modern entertainment. Located in Mashantucket, just a two-hour drive from New York City and Boston, this sprawling complex is one of the largest casino resorts in North America, operated by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. Since its humble beginnings in 1986 as a bingo hall, Foxwoods has grown into a world-class destination, covering 9 million square feet and drawing over 9 million visitors annually. Known for its six distinct casinos, luxurious hotels, and diverse entertainment options, it offers an escape that blends the thrill of gambling with the comforts of a full-fledged resort. The temperate New England climate enhances its appeal, with crisp autumns and snowy winters adding a seasonal charm to the experience. Whether you’re a high-stakes gambler, a family seeking fun, or a traveler craving a unique getaway, Foxwoods delivers a multifaceted adventure unlike any other in the United States.
History and Evolution of Foxwoods
The origins of Foxwoods Resort Casino trace back to the vision of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe, a Native American community determined to revitalize its economy. In 1986, the tribe opened a high-stakes bingo hall on their reservation, capitalizing on federal laws granting Native nations gaming rights. The venture’s success paved the way for a full-fledged casino, which debuted in 1992 with table games and slots, quickly gaining traction in the Northeast. A landmark 1993 compact with Connecticut legalized slot machines, propelling Foxwoods to new heights and funding tribal projects like the acclaimed Mashantucket Pequot Museum. Over the decades, the resort expanded with additional casinos—Grand Pequot, Fox Tower, and others—plus hotels, a golf course, and entertainment venues. By the early 2000s, it had cemented its status as a gaming giant, rivaling Las Vegas and Atlantic City. Today, Foxwoods continues to evolve, blending its tribal roots with modern luxury, a testament to resilience and adaptation in an ever-changing industry.
Key Milestones in Foxwoods’ History
- 1986: Bingo hall opens, marking the tribe’s first gaming venture.
- 1992: Casino launches with table games and poker.
- 1993: Slot machines legalized via state compact.
- 2008: Fox Tower hotel and casino expansion completed.
- 2015: Tanger Outlets added for premium shopping.
Gaming and Entertainment at Foxwoods
Foxwoods Resort Casino is a gambler’s paradise, boasting six casinos—Grand Pequot, Great Cedar, Rainmaker, Fox Tower, Stargazer, and Play Arena—each with its own vibe and offerings. Together, they house over 5,500 slot machines and 250 table games, including blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and a renowned poker room that hosts World Poker Tour events. Approximately 70% of the resort’s revenue stems from gaming, with slots alone occupying 60% of the floor space, catering to casual players, while VIP areas generate 35% of gambling income from high rollers. Beyond the tables, entertainment abounds. The Grand Theater and Fox Theater stage A-list concerts, comedy shows, and Broadway-style productions, while the High Rollers Luxury Lanes offer bowling with a chic twist. Families can enjoy the Thrill Tower rides or the arcade, ensuring non-gamblers aren’t left out. The Tanger Outlets, with over 80 designer stores, add a shopping dimension, making Foxwoods a one-stop entertainment hub.
Top Attractions at Foxwoods
- Grand Pequot Casino – Upscale gaming with VIP lounges.
- Foxwoods Poker Room – A hub for professional tournaments.
- Grand Theater – Hosts stars like Alicia Keys and Jerry Seinfeld.
- Tanger Outlets – Discounted luxury shopping.
- High Flyer Zipline – A 60-second thrill from 33 stories up.
Gaming Options Table
| Game Type | Description | Popularity |
|---|---|---|
| Slot Machines | 5,500+ machines, various themes | High |
| Blackjack | Multiple tables, varying stakes | Very High |
| Poker | WPT events, cash games | High |
| Roulette | American and European styles | Moderate |
| Baccarat | Favored by VIPs | High (VIPs) |
Accommodations and Dining Experiences
Foxwoods offers a range of accommodations across four hotels, totaling over 2,200 rooms, each tailored to different tastes. The Grand Pequot Tower exudes luxury with spacious suites and 24-hour butler service, while the Fox Tower combines modern elegance with proximity to the casino floor. The Great Cedar Hotel offers a cozy, family-friendly vibe, and the Two Trees Inn provides a quieter retreat with a New England inn feel. Dining is equally impressive, with over 35 options spanning casual eateries to fine dining. Cedars Steaks & Oysters serves prime cuts and seafood in an upscale setting, while the Hard Rock Café brings rock ‘n’ roll flair to comfort food. Quick bites like Golden Dragon’s Asian fare or Dunkin’ Donuts cater to those on the go. With 80% of visitors being tourists, the resort ensures a culinary variety that mirrors its diverse clientele, enhanced by the seasonal bounty of Connecticut’s farms and fisheries.
Popular Hotels at Foxwoods
- Grand Pequot Tower: Luxury with tribal-inspired decor.
- Fox Tower: Sleek, modern, and casino-adjacent.
- Great Cedar Hotel: Comfortable and central.
- Two Trees Inn: Rustic charm, pet-friendly.
Dining Highlights Table
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Price Range | Ambiance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cedars Steaks | Steakhouse/Seafood | Elegant | |
| Hard Rock Café | American | $$ | Lively |
| Golden Dragon | Asian | $$ | Casual |
| Caputo Trattoria | Italian | $$$ | Sophisticated |
Getting There and Visitor Tips
Foxwoods is conveniently located in Mashantucket, Connecticut, accessible via major highways like I-95 and I-395, making it a two-hour drive from Boston or New York City. Amtrak’s Northeast Regional line stops in nearby New London, with shuttle services to the resort, while Bradley International Airport (an hour away) serves flyers. On-site, free parking and valet options abound, and the resort’s layout—spanning six casinos and multiple towers—means free shuttles help navigate the vast property. Tips for visitors include dressing smart-casual for the casinos (no strict dress code), booking rooms early for peak times like summer or holidays, and checking the event calendar for shows. The region’s weather varies—summers are warm (70°F–85°F), winters cold with snow (20°F–40°F)—so pack accordingly. With its round-the-clock operations, Foxwoods caters to all schedules, though weekends see higher crowds.
Travel Options
- By Car: Via I-95 or I-395, 2 hours from NYC/Boston.
- By Train: Amtrak to New London, then shuttle.
- By Air: Fly into Bradley (BDL), 1-hour drive.
Foxwoods Resort Casino is more than a gaming venue—it’s a sprawling testament to ambition, culture, and entertainment, rooted in the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe’s legacy. From its six casinos pulsing with slots and table games to its theaters, ziplines, and gourmet dining, it offers an all-encompassing escape in Connecticut’s scenic countryside. The resort’s evolution from a bingo hall to a 9-million-square-foot titan reflects its ability to adapt while honoring its origins, drawing 9 million visitors yearly—80% tourists—hungry for its unique blend of thrills and luxury. Whether you’re chasing a jackpot, catching a show, or unwinding in a plush suite, Foxwoods delivers an experience that rivals global gaming capitals. It’s a place where New England charm meets Vegas-style grandeur, ensuring every visit leaves a lasting impression.