If you’re visiting MGM Springfield Casino and Resort let us give you an idea of what you can expect and what you should do if you are in the area.
When did MGM Springfield Open?
MGM Springfield and Resort Casino is located in downtown Springfield, MA. Their approach when building was to retain as much historical architecture as possible, but incorporate innovative design. As an example, special commercial door hardware was used to try to stay as true to the original while adding a few security features/ They retained already standing buildings, such as the MVM Armory, and incorporated them into their current location. The door design tries to commemorate what it used to be like way back when. The former French Congregational Church, now home to Kringle Emporium, was moved 500 feet in order to preserve the past as well.
What time is check in at MGM Springfield?
If you are staying at the MGM Springfield hotel you can check-in at 3:00 PM and check-out is at 11:00 AM. You can always ask for a late check-out and that is usually 12 noon at the latest. If rooms are requested prior to check-in time they will be accommodate you based on availability.
Is smoking allowed at MGM Springfield?
MGM Springfield Casino is a completely smoke-free facility. You an smoke in designated outdoor areas only.
Shopping at MGM Springfield
MGM Springfield also has a variety of shops including Krinkle Emporium (candles, baked good, and delicious shakes), Indian Motorcycle (motorcycle accessories and apparel), Hannoush Jewelers, and for everyday items and snacks, the Essentials shop has what you need. mgmspringfield.com/shopping
Are kids allowed at MGM Springfield?
While children are always welcome at MGM Springfield, there’s not a whole lot for kids to do inside of the casino other than the swimming pools. There is no kids game room or arcade and also no buffet like we have seen with other casinos. Children are never allowed on the gaming floor as you must be 21 or older to even step foot on the casino floors.
However, if you bring your children there are definitely things in the area you could do. You should plan a visit to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, take in a show at the MassMutal Center, and bike on the Connecticut River Bikeway. Other museums in the area include the Springfield Museum which features five museums in one stop.
MGM Springfield’s Architecture and History
When visiting make sure to take in the unique decor and you will discover artifacts from prominent individuals and business in and around Springfield, Massachusetts. The hotel rooms have the feel of a boutique hotel. Visit the conference center, even if you aren’t attending a conference, to view the stained glass dome and rotunda from the old United Electric Building. Notice the wording in the carpet, which is from books by Emily Dickinson.
The hotel at MGM Springfield features 252 guestrooms centering on the history, architecture, and literary legacy of Springfield. Walking around, not only the hotel, but the entire facility itself, one will find the façade having incorporated original and replicas focusing on people and businesses originally in Springfield and Massachusetts. Located throughout the hotel and casino, quotes from Emily Dickerson can be found. Walls are filled with impressions from artist Corwin Levi, as well as local artists.
Take a stroll around The Plaza, an outdoor dining and entertainment area highlighting the picturesque outdoor of MGM Springfield. The plaza offers a place to gather with friends or get a bite to eat or attend a comedy show in the Armory. During the summer, enjoy at evening of music with the Springfield Live outdoor concert series or the High Hopes Music and Arts Festival.
MGM Springfield Food Truck Fridays
Every Friday, throughout spring and summer, the outdoor plaza area features live music and food trucks starting at 11:00 am and continuing until 2:30 pm. Three MGM Springfield original concept food trucks will be present along with other regional favorites. The regional food tucks will be offered on a rotating basis.
MGM Springfield Restaurants
When it is time to satisfy that hungry feeling, one can choose from several options, whether a quick bite to eat or a leisurely meal. South End Market offers six different choices, ranging from a lobster roll to a cheeseburger to Asian noodles. Or seat at the Wine Bar and enjoy wine assorted cheeses. Then finish your meal with either gelato or an espresso.
If you are in the mood for watching sports, drinking a beer, and eating a burger, try the Tap Sports Bar. They offer several different beers on tap, as well as cocktails that can be accompanied by burgers, salads, or other types of sandwiches and entrees. Bowl a few games or play in the arcade when visiting the Tap Sports Bar.
For a more relaxing and leisurely, but informal, dinner, try the Chandler Steakhouse or Cal Mare. The Chandler Steakhouse offers aged steaks and other culinary delights surrounded by the atmosphere of the historic Union Building.
Feeling the craving for Italian, especially southern coast Italian, then Cal Mare is the place. Start off your dining experience with a light and refreshing Amalfi Flip cocktail. The “squid ink” black pasta with Maine lobster was a favorite and make sure to top off your dinner with a house-made Limoncello.
For a special treat, walk outside to the Kringle Emporium building to grab a spiked milkshake. Make sure to try the “Smore Something” topped with a flaming marshmallow.
Later in the evening enjoy a cocktail at one of the lounges: Commonwealth Bar and Lounge or The Knox Bar, both located within the gaming area. Or relax in comfort at the Lobby Bar, located in the lobby of the hotel. The Commonwealth Bar and Lounge has music, either a DJ or live.
Other attractions within MGM Springfield include Regal Cinemas featuring latest movies and luxury seating. Feel like swinging a golf club, then Topgolf Swing Suite is the place to go.
MGM The Loop Bus Line
You don’t have to worry about parking if you take the train from Hartford or Bridgeport to Union Station. Hop on the no-cost Loop bus line and it will take you to MGM Springfield. While staying at MGM, one can ride the Loop to visit other places, such as the Basketball Hall of Fame, Springfield Armory, and other downtown shops and locations. Pack a bag and come on up.
The new bus service is being operated by the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority with the cost underwritten by MGM.