So you're planning a trip to Foxwoods Resort Casino and want to know if the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Norwich is actually a smart place to stay. Here's the short answer: it's usually the best value play if you don't want to blow your entire gambling budget on a hotel room. While Foxwoods has its own on-site hotels like the Grand Pequot and the Fox Tower, they come with a premium price tag, especially on weekends. The Doubletree offers a solid middle ground—clean rooms, reliable amenities, and a location that's close enough to the action without the resort prices.
How Far Is the Doubletree from Foxwoods?
Let's get the logistics out of the way first. The Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Norwich is located at 20 Claire Drive in Norwich, Connecticut. In terms of driving distance, you're looking at roughly 8 miles from the hotel to the casino entrances. That translates to about a 12 to 15-minute drive depending on traffic and which part of the massive Foxwoods complex you're trying to reach.
For context, Foxwoods is huge—it's one of the largest casino complexes in the Western Hemisphere. Having a car is essentially mandatory if you stay off-property. If you don't feel like driving, the hotel does offer a complimentary shuttle service to and from Foxwoods. However, shuttles run on a fixed schedule, so if you plan on playing poker until 3:00 AM or want to leave exactly when you want, having your own vehicle gives you far more flexibility. The drive is simple, mostly highway Route 2, making it an easy commute even if you've had a long day on the casino floor.
Comparing Accommodation Options at Foxwoods
When deciding where to stay, you have to weigh convenience against cost. Staying at the Fox Tower or Great Cedar Hotel puts you right in the middle of the action—you can stumble from the blackjack table to your bed in minutes. But that convenience costs. On peak weekends, rates at on-site hotels can easily exceed $250 to $400 per night.
The Doubletree typically offers rates significantly lower than that, often half the price of the Fox Tower on the same dates. If you're the type of player who views the hotel as just a place to crash for five hours before getting back to the tables, saving $150+ per night is a no-brainer. That's money better spent on your bankroll.
| Hotel | Approx. Distance | Price Point | Key Perk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Doubletree Norwich | 8 miles | $ - $$ | Free shuttle, indoor pool |
| Fox Tower | On-site | $$$ - $$$$ | Direct casino access, modern rooms |
| Grand Pequot Tower | On-site | $$$ - $$$$ | Luxury feel, spa access |
| Great Cedar Hotel | On-site | $$ - $$$ | Budget option on property |
Amenities and What to Expect at the Doubletree
Since you won't be sleeping on the casino floor, the actual hotel experience matters. The Doubletree Norwich is a fairly standard upscale chain hotel. You get the warm cookie at check-in, which is a nice touch after a drive. The rooms are modern, clean, and comfortable—exactly what you'd expect from the Hilton brand. You'll find flat-screen TVs, work desks, and comfortable beds.
Where this hotel shines for a casino trip is the amenities. There's a solid indoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center, which is great if you need to work off some stress after a bad session at the tables. The on-site restaurant, Champions, serves decent American fare and has a full bar. If you're crashing late and don't want to hunt for food, room service is available. Free Wi-Fi is included for Hilton Honors members, so be sure to sign up before you book.
Nearby Attractions Beyond the Casino
Believe it or not, you might want to step away from the slot machines for a few hours. The Doubletree's location in Norwich puts you close to some decent non-gambling activities. The Mystic Seaport Museum and the Mystic Aquarium are both within a 20-minute drive—great if you're traveling with family members who aren't as interested in the casino scene.
Connecticut wine country is also surprisingly accessible. Within a 15-minute drive, you can find several local wineries if you want a change of pace from the loud casino floors. If you prefer outdoor activities, the hotel is close to hiking trails and state parks. Having these options makes the Doubletree a more versatile choice if your trip isn't 100% focused on gambling.
Saving Money on Your Foxwoods Trip
The real advantage of staying at the Doubletree comes down to bankroll management. Smart gamblers know that minimizing fixed costs—like hotel rooms and overpriced resort food—keeps you in the game longer. By staying off-property, you're not captive to the inflated food prices inside the resort. Norwich has plenty of dining options, from fast food to decent local joints, that will cost you a fraction of what you'd pay inside Foxwoods.
Additionally, if you're driving in from Boston, New York, or Hartford, the Doubletree is conveniently located right off I-395, making it an easy pitstop before you hit the casino. You can check in, drop your bags, and be at the tables within 20 minutes.
Is the Doubletree Right for Your Trip?
The decision really depends on your priorities. If you want the full resort experience—waking up, walking downstairs, and immediately being in a casino—the on-site hotels are the way to go. But if you're a practical player who views the room as a utility and wants to maximize your gambling budget, the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Norwich is the superior play. You trade a 15-minute drive for substantial savings and reliable accommodations.
For players who drive to Foxwoods regularly, this hotel often becomes the go-to choice. It offers a predictable standard of quality and keeps your overhead low. And in gambling, keeping your overhead low is how you stay in action.
FAQ
Does the Doubletree Norwich have a free shuttle to Foxwoods Casino?
Yes, the hotel provides a complimentary shuttle service to and from Foxwoods Resort Casino. The shuttle runs on a scheduled basis, so be sure to check the times at the front desk. It's a convenient option if you don't want to drive or pay for parking at the casino.
How long is the drive from Doubletree Norwich to Foxwoods?
The drive is approximately 8 miles and takes about 12 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. The route is straightforward via Route 2 East, making it an easy commute for guests with their own vehicles.
Is it cheaper to stay at the Doubletree than Foxwoods hotels?
Generally, yes. The Doubletree usually offers rates significantly lower than the on-site hotels like the Fox Tower or Grand Pequot, especially on weekends and during events. It's a popular choice for visitors looking to save on accommodation costs.
Can you walk from the Doubletree to Foxwoods?
No, you cannot walk. The Doubletree is located about 8 miles away from the casino in Norwich. Walking is not feasible due to the distance and lack of pedestrian infrastructure on the highway routes. You will need to drive or take the hotel shuttle.
