![](http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2006/06/25/travel/0625-tra-webCONNmap.gif)
Connecticut's two federally recognized tribes operate the largest and most successful casinos in the world but gambling is not the only attraction for tourists.
The
Mohegan Tribe, owners of
Mohegan Sun, and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, owners of
Foxwoods Resort Casino, have expanded their facilities in recent years to offer more food, entertainment and leisure options. Visitors can find high-end restaurants, spas and music acts at the two casinos.
"These are arguably almost the only casinos in the U.S., outside of the Las Vegas Strip and some of the Atlantic City properties, that are truly destination resorts," William Eadington, the director of the Institute for the Study of Gambling and Commercial Gaming at the University of Nevada in Reno, tells The New York Times.
The tribes aren't the only ones seeing more non-gambling traffic. Businesses off the reservation are benefiting from increased tourism brought in by the casinos.
"We are bringing people here for long weekends and longer stay-overs now," says Tony Sheridan, the president of the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut.
Get the Story:
Beyond the Slots: Salt Scrubs, Latte and Wine Bars in Connecticut
(The New York Times 6/25)
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