What can you do at Foxwoods if you are coming from the Hell’s Kitchen area of New York City? You have many great options! Foxwoods Resort Casino offers world-class Foxwoods casino attractions, fantastic Foxwoods entertainment options, and lovely spots for relaxation like Foxwoods spa services, all easily reachable from the New York metropolitan area.
Foxwoods Resort Casino, located in Mashantucket, Connecticut, serves as a massive entertainment hub. For those making the trip from Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan, it’s a manageable drive or a simple bus ride away, offering a perfect escape from city hustle. This guide breaks down everything you can see, do, eat, and experience once you arrive.
Planning Your Trip from Hell’s Kitchen
Traveling from Hell’s Kitchen to Foxwoods is straightforward. Most visitors choose driving or taking a chartered bus service.
Driving Directions Snapshot
The drive usually takes about 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic, especially around the New York City and Connecticut areas. Plan for tolls.
Bus Services
Several bus lines offer direct routes from NYC to Foxwoods. This is a great, stress-free way to travel if you plan on enjoying the gambling at Foxwoods without worrying about parking or driving fatigue.
The Thrill of the Floor: Foxwoods Casino Attractions
The main draw for many visitors is the massive gaming area. Foxwoods boasts two main casinos: Foxwoods Resort Casino and the adjacent MGM Grand at Foxwoods (now rebranded as the main Foxwoods complex).
Slot Machines and Table Games
The sheer number of gaming options is impressive. You will find thousands of slot machines catering to every taste and budget.
Table Game Variety:
* Blackjack
* Craps
* Roulette
* Baccarat
* Pai Gow Poker
If you are new to the tables, don’t worry. Staff are often available to offer brief lessons, making it easy for newcomers to join in the fun. This is a core part of the Foxwoods casino attractions.
Poker Room Experience
Foxwoods hosts a dedicated poker room. It offers both cash games and scheduled tournaments. Check the Foxwoods concert schedules and event listings, as major poker tours sometimes stop here, drawing large crowds. The atmosphere in the poker room is energetic and competitive.
World-Class Entertainment Options
Beyond the slots and cards, Foxwoods excels in providing top-tier entertainment. You will find several venues hosting major events throughout the year.
The Grand Theater
This is the premier spot for big shows. Major musical acts, comedians, and headline performers frequently visit. Always check the current Foxwoods concert schedules before booking your trip. Tickets often sell out quickly for top-tier performers.
Comedy Club
For lighter evening fun, the comedy club offers frequent performances. It’s a perfect way to wind down after dinner or a long day of gaming.
Clubs and Lounges
If you seek nightlife, Foxwoods has several bars and clubs. These spots offer craft cocktails, DJs, and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing. These Foxwoods entertainment options cater to those looking for excitement late into the evening.
Indulge Your Senses: Dining Near Foxwoods
A trip from Hell’s Kitchen deserves fantastic food, and Foxwoods delivers. Whether you want quick bites or five-star dining, there are plentiful restaurants near Foxwoods.
Fine Dining Experiences
For a special night out, consider these top-tier options:
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine Type | Vibe | Price Point |
|---|---|---|---|
| VUE 1941 | Contemporary American | Elegant, Rooftop Views | High |
| Red Dragon | Authentic Cantonese | Upscale, Traditional | Medium-High |
| Cedar Plank | Steakhouse | Classic, Luxurious | High |
Casual and Quick Eats
When hunger strikes fast between games, these spots are excellent choices:
- Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant: Good pub food and great beer.
- Fat Tuesday: Known for frozen drinks and quick snacks.
- Various Food Court Options: Quick, accessible choices near the main gaming floor.
Exploring the restaurants near Foxwoods ensures everyone in your party finds something delicious to eat.
Retail Therapy: Shopping at Foxwoods
If you need a break from the high energy of the casino floor, shopping at Foxwoods offers a great alternative. The resort features several high-end and specialty stores.
Tanger Outlets at Foxwoods
This is a major highlight. The Tanger Outlets feature dozens of brand-name stores offering discounted merchandise. You can find everything from designer clothing to home goods. It is a must-visit location among the things to do near Foxwoods if you enjoy retail therapy.
Resort Shops
Inside the main resort areas, you will find gift shops, jewelry stores, and boutiques selling resort wear and souvenirs. These shops often carry specialty items unique to the region.
Relaxation and Rejuvenation: Foxwoods Spa Services
After traveling from NYC or spending hours on your feet at the slots, pampering yourself is essential. Foxwoods offers superb Foxwoods spa services designed for total relaxation.
G Spa & Salon
The G Spa is known for its extensive menu of treatments. They offer massages, facials, body wraps, and salon services. It’s a true oasis away from the excitement.
Popular Treatments:
* Hot Stone Massage
* Detoxifying Body Scrubs
* Customized Facials
Booking these services in advance is highly recommended, especially on weekends, as appointments fill up fast. Enjoying the amenities like the sauna or whirlpool is part of the luxury package.
Fitness Centers
For those who keep up their routine, the resort also has fully equipped fitness centers available for guest use. Staying active is another way to enjoy the things to do near Foxwoods that keep you healthy.
Where to Stay: Foxwoods Hotel Amenities
Your stay greatly enhances your visit. Foxwoods features several tiers of accommodation, ensuring comfort regardless of your budget. Reviewing the Foxwoods hotel amenities helps you choose the right tower for your trip.
Hotel Towers Overview
Foxwoods has four main hotel options:
- The Grand Pequot Tower: Often considered the most luxurious option, offering premium views and services.
- The Fox Tower: Modern and centrally located, offering excellent access to the casino floor.
- The Great Cedar Hotel: A comfortable, mid-range option.
- The Two Trees Inn: The most budget-friendly choice, offering basic, clean accommodations.
Key Hotel Amenities
The level of service provided ensures a pleasant stay. Key Foxwoods hotel amenities often include:
- High-speed Wi-Fi access.
- 24-hour room service (in select towers).
- Access to pools and fitness centers.
- Valet parking services.
- Easy walkability to the main attractions.
Beyond the Casino Walls: Nearby Attractions to Foxwoods
While Foxwoods offers nearly everything you need for a weekend escape, there are interesting nearby attractions to Foxwoods if you have extra time or prefer non-gaming activities.
Mystic, CT
Just a short drive away, Mystic is a charming coastal town.
What to See in Mystic:
* Mystic Seaport Museum: Explore a living maritime village.
* Mystic Aquarium: Famous for its beluga whales and sea lion shows.
* Mystic Pizza: Yes, the one from the movie! Grab a slice.
Mohegan Sun Casino
For visitors who enjoy variety, Mohegan Sun is Foxwoods’ sister property, located just down the road. You can easily spend a day exploring their unique theme and different Foxwoods entertainment options by visiting both resorts.
Nature and Outdoors
The area is rich in natural beauty. Explore local hiking trails or visit nearby state parks if the weather is nice. This provides a nice contrast to the indoor excitement of the casino.
Deciphering the Entertainment Lineup: Concerts and Events
Keeping track of what is happening when you visit is crucial for maximizing fun. The Foxwoods concert schedules are updated frequently.
How to Check Schedules
The official Foxwoods website provides the most current calendar. Look specifically at:
- The Grand Theater listings for major concerts.
- The comedy club calendar.
- Special sporting events or conventions that might be hosted on-site.
Attending a show is one of the best non-gaming Foxwoods entertainment options.
Financial Focus: Managing Your Budget
When traveling from an expensive city like New York, knowing where your money goes at Foxwoods is important.
Budgeting for Gambling
If gambling at Foxwoods is your main goal, set clear limits before you arrive. The resort caters to all levels, from penny slots to high-limit tables.
Food and Lodging Costs
Dining prices can range widely. Using the food court options mentioned earlier can save significantly compared to high-end steakhouses. Look for package deals that bundle hotel stays with dining credits. This often makes the overall cost more predictable.
Shopping Savings
Tanger Outlets are great for deals, but impulse buying can add up. Focus on specific stores you need to visit.
Fathoming the Guest Experience: Customer Service
The staff at Foxwoods work hard to ensure visitors from places like Hell’s Kitchen have a smooth experience.
Hotel Check-In Efficiency
Due to the volume of guests, hotel check-in can sometimes be busy. Arriving mid-week or outside of peak holiday times can lead to quicker access to your room. Inquire about mobile check-in options if available when reviewing Foxwoods hotel amenities.
Casino Floor Assistance
If you have questions about the rules for a specific game, look for a floor supervisor or dealer. They are usually happy to explain the basics, making the gambling at Foxwoods accessible to everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Visiting Foxwoods
Q: How far is Foxwoods from Hell’s Kitchen, NYC?
A: Foxwoods is roughly 130 to 150 miles away, depending on the exact route taken. The drive typically takes 3 to 3.5 hours without heavy traffic delays.
Q: Can I get a shuttle service directly from NYC to Foxwoods?
A: Yes, several private bus companies run dedicated, round-trip shuttle services directly from various points in New York City, including near the Hell’s Kitchen area, to the casino resort.
Q: Are there non-smoking areas for gambling at Foxwoods?
A: Foxwoods generally designates specific areas or separate halls for non-smoking, though regulations can change. It is best to check the current policy upon arrival regarding the Foxwoods casino attractions smoking rules.
Q: Do I need reservations for the restaurants near Foxwoods?
A: For high-demand spots like VUE 1941 or Cedar Plank, reservations are strongly recommended, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. Casual dining usually does not require bookings.
Q: What are the best alternatives to the spa services if I want outdoor activities?
A: If you prefer the outdoors, look into exploring nearby state forests or beaches in the southern Connecticut region, which are some of the excellent nearby attractions to Foxwoods.
Q: Where can I find the latest Foxwoods concert schedules?
A: The most reliable place to view the current Foxwoods concert schedules is always the official Foxwoods Resort Casino website’s entertainment section. They list upcoming acts for The Grand Theater and smaller venues.