Foxwoods Resort Casino is breathing new life into a dormant piece of its hospitality footprint. The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation has announced that the iconic Two Trees Inn will reopen in spring 2026, nearly six years after it closed at the onset of the COVID 19 pandemic. The 280 room property, located steps from the casino complex in Ledyard, Connecticut, represents both a symbolic and practical signal that the region’s tourism economy is rebounding strongly. After years of hotel closures and slow travel demand, this revival speaks to increased visitor interest driven by broader investments in entertainment, new resort amenities and a healthier travel market in southeastern Connecticut. The move also aligns with broader economic activity in the region, including expansions by General Dynamics Electric Boat and rising hotel tax receipts statewide.
Restoring a Regional Hospitality Asset
Built in 1993, Two Trees Inn has long been a key lodging option for visitors to one of Connecticut’s most renowned gaming destinations. But like many hospitality assets across the US, it fell victim to pandemic shutdowns and never reopened once restrictions were lifted. The planned relaunch next spring marks not just a reopening of rooms, but a strategic expansion of Foxwoods’ overall accommodation capacity. The Inn’s wooded setting, indoor pool, fitness centre and proximity to outdoor attractions like Lantern Hill enhance its appeal for guests seeking experiences beyond the casino floor.
Waterford Hotel Group Takes the Helm
Management of the property will be handled by Waterford Hotel Group, a Connecticut based hospitality firm with a portfolio that includes more than 40 properties and the Connecticut Convention Center. Waterford’s involvement signals a commitment to elevating guests’ experience while ensuring operational expertise in staffing, training and pre opening preparations. This partnership hopes to balance the Inn’s classic charm with modern service standards that cater to both leisure travellers and families visiting Foxwoods.
Economic and Community Impact
The reopening of Two Trees Inn is expected to generate meaningful economic benefits for Ledyard and the broader region. Initially, about 50 employees will be hired to staff the property, with the potential for more roles as demand grows. Local hoteliers and tourism stakeholders have hailed the move as a sign that southeastern Connecticut’s visitor economy is on an upward trajectory. Rising lodging tax collections and increased occupancy rates suggest a sustained interest in travel to the area, bolstered by new attractions at Foxwoods, such as the Great Wolf Lodge and upcoming dining venues. The comeback of Two Trees Inn thus contributes to a broader narrative of regional hospitality recovery.
Support from Regional Tourism Trends
Connecticut’s tourism sector has shown signs of resilience, with hotels reporting higher occupancy and economic indicators pointing to increasing travel activity. The reopening aligns with greater investment in experiences that draw visitors beyond just gaming including family oriented attractions, cultural institutions and expanded food and beverage options. By reinstating Two Trees Inn, Foxwoods strengthens its ecosystem of offerings and helps position the area as a compelling destination for weekend escapes and longer stays alike.
Integrating with Foxwoods’ Broader Vision
The return of Two Trees Inn fits into Foxwoods Resort Casino’s larger strategy of enhancing its appeal to a diverse range of visitors. Recent additions like the Great Wolf Lodge family resort and high profile culinary partnerships indicate a push toward a multi generational destination experience. Two Trees Inn complements these developments by offering an alternative to the larger on site hotels, appealing to guests who prefer a more tranquil, nature oriented setting while still being connected to the resort’s entertainment and gaming offerings.
Balancing History with Modern Demand
Reviving an established property like Two Trees Inn also bridges the past with current market needs. Its wooded landscape and relaxed atmosphere were hallmarks that drew guests in the 1990s and early 2000s. With renewed demand for regional travel and nature adjacent stays rising post pandemic, the Inn may benefit from trends favouring experiences that combine recreation, comfort and accessibility. Successfully balancing this classic identity with modern expectations will be critical to the hotel’s long term success.
What Guests Can Expect
While specific room rates and packages haven’t been announced yet, Two Trees Inn is expected to offer competitive pricing relative to other Foxwoods properties, which currently range from mid tier weekday rates to premium weekend pricing. Amenities will likely include the Inn’s signature features like an indoor pool, hot tub and fitness centre, along with easy shuttle access to the casino and resort attractions. Its location also places guests within walking distance of Lake of Isles golf course and the Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center, broadening activities available beyond gambling.
Tourism and Hospitality Forward
- Restored hospitality capacity supports local tourism growth and employment.
- Partnership with Waterford Hotel Group brings experienced hotel operations to the property.
- Two Trees Inn enhances Foxwoods’ portfolio with a distinct alternative lodging choice.
- Proximity to natural and cultural attractions expands the appeal beyond casino guests.
The reopening of Two Trees Inn in 2026 is more than a structural revival; it’s a sign of confidence in Connecticut’s tourism recovery and Foxwoods Resort Casino’s long term strategy. As regional demand continues to grow, this hotel’s return may not only meet pent up travel appetite but also help shape the next era of hospitality in southeastern Connecticut.