Hotel at a Glance: Bellissimo Grande Hotel

Connecticut might not spring to mind as a haven for casinos, but it’s actually home to one of the world’s biggest—Foxwoods Resort Casino. Guests staying at the Bellissimo Grande Hotel enjoy easy access to the nearby complex, outfitted with six casinos, 4,800 slot machines, and more than 250 gaming tables.

• Italian flair: Owner Patrick Levantino drew inspiration from his Italian upbringing to decorate the hotel; the spa and lobby feature Renaissance-style frescoes and paintings.
• Where you’ll stay: Guest suites come with 32-inch flat-screen TVs and WiFi access.
• Visit the bistro and satisfy your taste buds with a variety of freshly made breakfast (Fridays & Saturdays only; to-go only)
• Get caffeinated with a frothy cappuccino or a hot cup of joe at the on-site coffee kiosk, open Monday through Friday 7a-5p (to-go only)
• Distance from Foxwoods: Bellissimo Grande Hotel is the second closest hotel to Foxwoods Resort and Casino, located 3.5 miles away.
• Go shopping at the nearby Tanger Outlets, where you’ll find retailers such as J.Crew and Kate Spade.

North Stonington, Connecticut: Quaint Town in Mystic Country

North Stonington, set 9 miles inland from the coast, is part of Connecticut’s fabled Mystic Country, known for its rolling hills, scenic drives, and historic towns. Sample wines at Jonathan Edwards Winery or try your luck on the blackjack table at Mohegan Sun or Foxwoods Resort Casino, one of the world’s largest casinos in total area. It also houses a massive poker room and bingo hall. The Mystic Aquarium features New England’s only beluga whales, as well as African penguins, moray eels, and nurse sharks. It’s also home to Mystic Seaport America’s largest maritime museum and home to a vast collection of antique boats and ships.