Great Cedar Hotel at Foxwoods

The Great Cedar Hotel at Foxwoods is one of the lodging towers within the Foxwoods Resort Casino complex, placing guests inside one of New England's biggest entertainment destinations. Staying here means that gaming floors, theaters, restaurants, shops and the spa are connected by indoor routes, so you can move from your room to dinner and a show without stepping outside. The setting is quite different from Mystic's seaside charm, and it appeals to guests who plan a casino-centered trip, who want to attend a concert and not drive afterward or who want a weatherproof base in winter.

Rooms are designed for comfort and typically include spacious layouts, modern bathrooms and views over the surrounding woodland or the resort grounds. Because Foxwoods hosts events, conventions and big entertainment dates, the busiest times are weekends and show nights, when rates rise. Midweek stays can be much cheaper, and promotions are common for gaming guests, so check for offers when you book. Families should note that gaming areas are restricted to adults, but there are other parts of the resort, such as dining, shops and arcades, that welcome all ages.

The location is convenient for the Mashantucket Pequot Museum, which lies a short distance away, and Mystic is about a half hour by car. A stay here is therefore a good option for travelers who want to split the trip between the resort and the coast: a night or two at Foxwoods for entertainment, then a move to a Mystic inn for the seaside. Note that the resort is large, and walking distances inside can be long, so wear comfortable shoes and consider asking for a room near the elevators or the area you plan to visit most.

Dining and entertainment should be planned ahead. Popular restaurants can be busy on weekend evenings, and concerts sell out. The spa also takes reservations, so book treatments when you reserve your room. Parking is plentiful, and valet is available at some entrances. Check the resort fee policy, if any, and review smoking rules for your room and the public areas. Responsible gaming tools and information are available for guests, and staff can assist with questions about limits and breaks.

If you plan to combine a casino stay with sightseeing, give yourself a travel buffer, because event traffic on weekend evenings can slow the access roads. Consider a half-day at the Pequot Museum on the morning after a late show, followed by an unhurried drive to Mystic for lunch. The resort also offers entertainment for families on some dates, so ask the front desk about what is on during your stay.