If you were to guess where the largest casino in North America was, your mind would probably go to Las Vegas or Atlantic City. But no, the largest casino resort in the continent is fairly close to the shores of Southeastern Connecticut.
Actually spread across six casinos, five hotels, and a bevy of dining, shows, golf, and spa options, the massive Foxwoods complex might as well be Vegas of the Northeast.
Opened in 1992 with 4,500 slot machines and more than 250 table games, Foxwoods is actually looking to cut down on some of the gaming options to free up space for nightclubs and other new attractions. Just like Vegas, they’re looking to be a one stop shop for families, friends and romantic retreats by expanding their entertainment options beyond gambling, although you can already dance the night away at the area’s hottest clubs Shrine and Scorpion Bar, or see a show with a number of big name musical headliners regularly passing through.
Run by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe, one interesting twist on the gaming complex is their Native American roots. You can learn about their legacy at the Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center on-site, the world's largest Native American museum. Spanning 20,000 years of history with 85,000 square feet of life-sized dioramas and exhibits from the Ice Age to Life on the Reservation, it’s a way to get cultured on nature and the history of the area while taking advantage of all the manmade attractions. And when you need a break from being indoors, the Pequot Trails are literally right outside the door, marked walking paths leading to some of the finest vistas in Connecticut. At 491 feet above sea level, you will be able to see all the way to Block Island Sound on a clear day, literally a breath of fresh air after a claustrophobic casino. Fun for the whole family.