Travel to MGM Springfield - A New England Casino

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MGM Resorts in Springfield MA

In mid-May we had the opportunity to spend a few days at one of New England's newest hotel and resort casinos, MGM Springfield, which opened in 2018 in Springfield Massachusetts. 

MGM Springfield is owned and operated by MGM Resorts International,  known for fabulous hotels and casinos, state-of-the-art meetings and conference spaces, incredible live and theatrical entertainment experiences, and an extensive array of restaurant, nightlife and retail offerings. 

Welcome to MGM Springfield

Getting there? Easy peasy! Just a little over an hour from our home in Connecticut and it's right off I-91. I do mean right off - like about a block from the exit! 

Parking? Also easy! A self parking garage enters right into and is just steps from the casino. Valet parking service (approximately $28) is also available.

We began our stay with a tour of the property, learning about MGM's commitment to remaining true to the spirit of the area and attention to details for the full consumer experience.  MGM is bringing the best of the best to Springfield with their partnership with the MassMutual Center with shows like CHER (that I was lucky enough to attend back in April) - and AEROSMITH coming in August 2019.  

In addition, there's always SOMETHING fun going on site in 'The Plaza' on MGM Springfield's grounds, as well as the the ROAR: Comedy Club also located in the plaza in the old Springfield Armory on weekends.  The Plaza is an incredible outdoor dining and entertainment district that highlights the outdoor beauty of the hotel and casino.

 "MGM International believes entertainment is a fundamental human need" explained marketing director, Saverio Mancini.

We couldn't agree more! And no one fills that need for entertainment better than MGM! 

The Springfield Armory
Now the ROAR Comedy Club
Located in MGM Springfield's Plaza are

MGM Springfield
Plaza Seating Area

MGM Springfield
Conference Center Veranda

It was easy to see that MGM was dedicated to being true to the area's historic location and place in the Springfield community. Building in the area certainly helped the city with their rebuilding efforts after a devastating tornado. (In June 2011 a category EF3 tornado with 160 mph winds ripped through Springfield destroying over 500 buildings in downtown Springfield and the surrounding area). 

MGM Springfield Hotel Exterior

The company built slowly and intentionally, integrating a historically accurate architectural aesthetic that blends seamlessly into the downtown landscape. 

MGM Springfield
Interactive History of Springfield MA

MGM Springfield remains true to the spirit of the city known as the "City of Firsts" with its nod to the number of items first invented in Springfield (the game of basketball, American dictionary, Indian Motorcycles, and so much more) -- all in the place that was once the epicenter for precision manufacturing - and the birthplace of Dr. Seuss!

ROAR Comedy Club
and Patio Seating Area
MGM Springfield

The attention to detail throughout the hotel and casino is incredible! Both are decorated in an early twentieth century decor with beautiful textiles and warm tones. 

The design team scoured the area and the nearby Brimfield Antique Flea Market for historically accurate pieces that represent and replicate the industrial revolution era that the area is known for.

MGM Springfield
Hotel Lobby

MGM Springfield
Antiques and Artifacts
Hotel Lobby

MGM Springfield
Hotel Lobby
Reading Nook

There's even a Starbucks in the Lobby!

We loved our hotel room! It was so tastefully decorated and had a great view of downtown Springfield!

It had a cozy little seating area that was the perfect space for our morning 'in room' breakfast! 

After breakfast - we hit the shops! There are some great little places in the surrounding block, like Kringle Emporium.

Kringle Emporium specializes in candles, but also offers coffee, baked goods, soups, sandwiches, paninis, and salads. 

Candles Galore at
Kringle Emporium

Kringle's Friendly Staff

In addition, they offer milkshakes and spiked milkshakes! This one is the S'more Something - a decadent concoction with flambeed marshmallows, chocolate goodness, vodka, and graham crackers.

Spiked Milkshakes
at Kringles Emporium

After all our indulging we headed over to the Indian Motorcycle store where we loved all the memorabilia items - and of course, the display Indian cycles!

Indian Motorcycle Memorabilia

Actual Indian Motorcycles on Display!

After our shopping excursion we decided to head on over to the Tap Sports Bar for lunch.

Tap features loads of TVs to show all the sports events with a great 'sports bar' menu, an extensive beer selection, and a creative cocktail menu. It was a beautiful spring day - so we decided to eat on the outdoor patio!

Cocktails at Tap Sports Bar
MGM Springfield

Lunch at Tap Sports Bar
MGM Springfield

Want more options? Head over to the South End Market Place for a plethora of flavors Diner Favorites to Noodles to Lobster to Wine & Cheese --- and so much more! And it's open 24 hours!

If you're visiting on a Friday - make sure you stop into the plaza to enjoy "Food Truck Friday" where a variety of food trucks gather for some food and music and fun!

Food Truck Fridays
MGM Springfield Plaza

After lunch while the cowboy visited 'the slots' we headed over to the Salon for a well deserved pedicure! Not only does the hotel feature a full spa -- but they also feature a full service salon, with some great specials that sometimes come with a champagne perk!

MGM Springfield
Salon

Enjoy a bit of bubbly
with select services
MGM Springfield Salon

MGM Springfield Salon
Enjoying a Pedicure

After an afternoon shopping, relaxing, getting spoiled in the salon, and visiting the casino's gaming area, we headed out to dinner at Cal Mare.

The Cal Mare Restaurant

Cal Mare's chef, Michael Mina, fuses the authentic Italian coastal cuisine from the Amalfi Coast that he is know for, with New England's signature style. The marriage is a win-win!

Cocktails at the Cal Mare Restaurant
MGM Springfield

Cal Mare at MGM Springfield
Gnocchi

MGM Springfield
Cal Mare Restaurant
Lasagna

We ate soooo much that we needed to walk off our dinner, so we did some more strolling through the area and visited the gaming area. We ended our night over cocktails at MGM Springfield's Commonwealth Club where as the night goes on the music and fun gets pumped up!

MGM Springfield
Commonwealth Club

Commonwealth Club
Espresso Martini Nightcap

There's also a fun little hotel cocktail bar where drinks are found in a storybook menu and based on fairy tale names. 

Bibidi Bobbidity Booze Cocktail
MGM Springfield Hotel Lobby

Cocktails at the Hotel Lobby Bar
MGM Springfield

We loved our little getaway to MGM Springfield! We know you will too! We can't wait to visit again to enjoy more of all there is to do! 

Next time we're planning on indulging in their new BRUNCH BUFFET (!!), taking in a movie in their on premise Regal Theater, having fun with a little competitive bowling at the Tap Sports Bar, and taking in a show at the comedy club!

Hope we see you there!

MGM Grand

One MGM Way
Springfield, CT
https://mgmspringfield.mgmresorts.com/en.html

413.273.5000

Disclaimer: We were invited to MGM Springfield by members of the company's management and marketing team and portions of this post are sponsored. However, all views and opinions are our own.

©  Home Place 2019

MGM Springfield - Coming in 2018

MGM Resorts to Debut 

New England Luxury Gaming Resort in Late 2018

$960 Million MGM Springfield Marks Largest Private Investment in Western Massachusetts

It's coming! Expanding its presence on the East Coast, MGM Resorts will debut MGM Springfield, the Commonwealth’s first integrated luxury resort and entertainment destination, in Q3 2018. The $960 million project will celebrate Springfield’s rich heritage while establishing its role as the gateway to New England.

As the largest private investment in the history of Western Massachusetts, MGM Springfield is at the forefront of the burgeoning revitalization of Springfield, primed to attract thousands of new travelers from the region and beyond.

It's said the property will span 14 acres and three blocks within the heart of the historic city. Igniting a cultural and economic renaissance, the development will encompass a 250-room boutique hotel, gourmet dining options, well-curated retail stores, tranquil spa facilities, more than 125,000 square feet of gaming space and an 8,000-seat entertainment and events venue via a partnership with MassMutual Center. Interactive entertainment elements such as a contemporary cinema, bowling complex, seasonal skating rink and an outdoor marketplace spotlighting local art, events and talent will round out the resort’s offerings.

MGM Springfield’s design will fuse modern construction with historical buildings—including First Spiritualist Church, Springfield Armory and Chandler Union Hotel—to pay tribute to the city’s revered past while delivering entirely new experiences for guests. Serving as an integral part of the community, its retail and dining options will accessible via Main Street, allowing visitors easy access between the property’s shops and restaurants and other Downtown Springfield attractions.

A Glimpse into MGM Springfield:

·         Accommodations – MGM Springfield’s six-story boutique-style hotel will be a whimsical-yet-sophisticated retreat. Design details—including factory-style paned glass and Edison bulb fixtures—will harken to Springfield’s industrial roots, while eclectic artwork will evoke the locale’s creative iconography, visually referencing Dr. Seuss, Emily Dickenson and Merriam-Webster Dictionary.

• Retail – New England’s own Kringle Candle is the first partner to announce new boutique locations within MGM Springfield’s curated shopping collection. The much-anticipated retail lineup will animate MGM Springfield’s street-level with exciting offerings, creating a vibrant interface with Springfield’s revitalized downtown experience.

·         Art – Woven through all elements of the resort, a public art program will feature a captivating collection of commissioned and hand-selected pieces, including an exclusive exhibit developed in partnership withSpringfield Museums: “Cabinet of Curiosities: Springfield Innovations from the Springfield Museums.” The specially curated exhibition will embody the enterprising legacy of Springfield, showcasing turn-of-the-century objects such as a 1925 Edison Western Union Stock Ticker, a 1915 Springfield-made Telegraphone, an 1895 Edison Home Phonograph, thoughtfully placed throughout the resort.

·        Food & Beverage - MGM Springfield will offer an array of food-and-beverage spots, including MGM's signature TAP Sports Bar, the bustling South End Market off Main Street and numerous new-to-market concepts ranging from specialty restaurants and fast-casual venues to in-room dining.

·         Entertainment – The 8,000-seat MassMutual Center is MGM Springfield’s official entertainment venue, serving as the home for large-scale conventions and events along with its 100,000-square-foot convention center. As one of the world’s leading presenters of live entertainment, MGM Resorts International will leverage its pipeline of global relationships to attract first-rate events, reinforcing the city’s reputation as the region’s premier entertainment hub. MGM Springfield also will partner with other local venues such as Symphony Hall.

• Open-Air Plaza – Inspired by the classic New England town common, MGM Springfield will create a lively outdoor plaza and thriving public space, with the iconic Revolutionary-War-era Springfield Armory at the center. The historic United States arsenal will offer a remarkable backdrop for an open-air marketplace, which will offer live events, local artisans, a weekly farmers market and seasonal programming including an outdoor ice rink. The plaza will become the anchor for the neighborhood’s pedestrian crowd, encouraging guests to explore the many local businesses and historical sites nearby.
• Enjoyment for all – Extending from the outdoor plaza, the resort will offer several multi-use amenities, including an eight-screen movie theater complex; 10-lane bowling center; serene spa; and an 8,000-square-foot pool situated within a terraced rooftop garden.

·         Meetings & Events – In addition to large-scale convention capabilities at MassMutual Center, MGM Springfield will offer approximately 44,000 square feet of meeting-and-event space to accommodate events ranging from business to social gatherings.

• Casino – An expansive, 125,000-square-foot gaming floor will feature approximately 2,550 slot machines, 120 gaming tables, a poker room and high-limit VIP gaming area for a variety of experiences.

Located approximately 80 miles west of Boston, Springfield boasts a 375-year legacy as a major crossroads of New England. Among the city’s numerous draws are the Basketball Hall of Fame—a shrine to the sport in its founding locale—and The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum, a recently debuted interactive center devoted to literary great and Springfield native Theodor Geisel.

Immediate access to Interstate 91 and the Mass. Pike, as well as nearby Bradley International Airport in Hartford and the Amtrak-serviced Union Station, make MGM Springfield well connected and accessible to local and global audiences

In the coming months, MGM Springfield will unveil more details about the offerings and amenities available to guests. For more information, visit mgmspringfield.com. 

Mohegan Sun Opens Second Hotel in Connecticut

Mohegan Sun Officially Unveils Second Hotel

The 400-Room Earth Tower

Photo Source: Mohegan Sun

The all-new Earth Tower is now open to the public.  Mohegan Sun’s 400-room, 242,000 square-foot $139 million Earth Tower, celebrated its grand opening this morning, with a special ribbon cutting event. Mohegan Sun President and General Manager, Ray Pineault and Mohegan Tribal Chairman, Kevin Brown “Red Eagle,” kicked the ceremony off by thanking all of the men and women who worked diligently over the last year and a half to design and construct a truly beautiful addition to Mohegan Sun’s property.

Photo Courtesy Mohegan Sun

Mohegan Tribal Chairman, Kevin “Red Eagle” Brown, Mohegan Sun President and GM, Ray Pineault, Mohegan Chief, Lynn Malerba, along with Governor, Dannel Malloy, Lieutenant Governor, Nancy Wyman, Senator, Richard Blumenthal and Congressman, Joe Courtney and many more, all took part in the special ceremony Friday morning to welcome the new expansion.

A second hotel at Mohegan Sun’s flagship destination was something that both the Mohegan Tribal Council and Mohegan Sun Senior Leadership have long anticipated, since putting original plans on hold back in 2008, due the economic downturn. Chairman Brown spoke to those hard decisions as well as the impact that this long awaited second hotel has already had, stating, “for us, this new hotel does represent the ability to have more room nights and stays, right here at the casino and that has already, just in these early days, proven itself out with the demand that has been placed on this new hotel. But it’s also important to the state, because it represents the 2,000 jobs as this went through the construction phase and represents 200 permanent jobs, as we extend our team members, into this facility, and keep it up and running.”

Photo Courtesy Mohegan Sun

To help usher in the new hotel and speak to the importance of the strong relationship between Mohegan Sun and the State of Connecticut, additional special guests included Governor, Malloy, Lt. Governor, Nancy Wyman, Senator Richard Blumenthal and Congressman Joe Courtney. U.S. State Senator, Richard Blumenthal, in particular, concluded his remarks by stating, “In Washington, when I talk to colleague’s about what is happening to the Native American tribes in their state, they look, with reverence, and some envy, at what you have done here. It is a great American success story, not just in dollars and cents, not just in spectacular building, or in entertainment and enjoyment that you have brought to countless people, but in the triumph of hope, and vision over obstacles, that would have deterred others.”

Overcoming obstacles certainly was fitting, as over the course of the last couple of years, Mohegan Sun has turned away around 1 million hotel rooms in the iconic, 1,200-room Sky Tower. And with much excitement about the new expansion, and finally being able to provide guests with such a well-executed second hotel, Mohegan Sun President & GM, Ray Pineault, thanked all of the contributions and hard work as well as commenting that, “this new hotel gives us a better opportunity to serve the incredible demand we have witnessed in our twelve hundred room, SkyTower and really allows us to welcome in even more guests in and outside of the state, with many looking to make multi-night visits.” And Mohegan Sun’s President concluded the event with, “what started out in 1996 as a 170,000 square-foot Casino with just a smaller sized free music venue, and a few restaurants and shops, is now one of the largest, most impressive, all-encompassing gaming, entertainment and resort destinations in the world.”

Earth Tower’s design was modeled after the original Sky Tower, with the help of Architect group, Kohn Pederson Fox Associates. Sitting along the Thames River, featuring 400 luxurious rooms, including 39 suites, the new hotel brings about some unique new features for guests. 

The lobby is home to various lounging areas along with Bean and Vine Café & Wine Bar, where guests can grab breakfast and a coffee in the morning, and relax with friends over a glass of wine or beer in the evening, all with a beautiful view. Located on the ground level, in front of the Tower, the outdoor Earth Tower Terrace will feature gas fire pits and satellite bar & food service, when weather permits. The space can also be utilized for private functions, including wedding receptions, anniversaries and more. 

Each room and suite will also be home to advanced in-room technology, including ultra-fast Wi-Fi, intelligent thermostats, dual-line telephones.

Other amenities in Earth Tower include an all-new spa, fitness center and pool.  All parking is free at Mohegan Sun as well, including hotel valet!

The access to Earth Tower is provided by way of two impressively designed connectors as well, allowing entry from the Winter entrance and from the original hotel lobby.
To learn more, visit Earth Tower!

Kohn Pederson Fox (KPF), out of New York, was the architectural firm of record. KPF was also the master architect for Mohegan Sun’s 1,200-room Sky Tower, which opened in 2002.  A/Z Corporation, with headquarters locally in North Stonington, Connecticut, was the general contractor for the project and has a long history of having completed various projects at Mohegan Sun.

ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN

Mohegan Sun, owned by the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States.  Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to three unique casinos, two hotel towers including the 34-story, 1,200-room luxurious Sky Tower as well as the recently opened, 400-room Earth Tower, a world-class spa and golf course, over 85 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with Mohegan Sun on Facebook,  on Twitter,  on YouTube and find them on Snapchap at username Mohegansun.

Mohegan Sun 

1 Mohegan Sun Boulevard
Uncasville, CT 06382
General Information: 1.888.226.7711
Hotel Reservations: 1.888.777.7922
https://mohegansun.com/