There’s nothing better than a road trip for the last weekend of summer. A few friends some roadside snacks and you could travel for hours and never miss a thing. This summer we spent part of the last weekend in the fabulous Mohegan Sun resort in Uncasville, CT. At a mere 2 hours from NYC it is a convenient getaway and one of the tri-state areas most alluring attractions. We started our trip in Manhattan NY and were barely on the road 20 minutes when we found ourselves stuck in traffic. This would have been catastrophic had we not chosen to rent the Lincoln MKZ. The Lincoln climate control and Sirius satellite radio sound speakers kept us cool and entertained. The traffic jam became less and less of an annoyance as we made our way to Uncasville.Once the traffic let up we stepped on the gas and enjoyed a smooth ride all the way to Connecticut. Despite the relatively easy route to Mohegan Sun we got a little off track. Luckily the ride is equipped with a state of the art GPS system. The system is designed to be functional only when not driving. The functionality of the dashboard system is limited as a safety precaution. The vehicle also features sync technology that allows the driver to answer calls without picking up the handset, the callers voice comes directly from the car’s speakers.ย The sedan also offers parking assistance via a rear camera that alerts when something is too close to the bumper. Despite the comfortable surroundings of the MKZ we were ecstatic to reach the glorious Mohegan Sun Casino. Though we arrived a little later than planned we were right on time for Salt N Pepa’s free concert in the Wolf’s Den.
The Den is an intimate performance space centrally located in the heart of the massive resort. The space features full beverage service and an amazing sound system. Having Bell Biv Devoe earlier this summer we could hardly wait to watch Hip Hop legends Salt N Pepa perform. The venue is open to the public and many gathered for the show. We found our way right to the front of the crowd and didn’t miss a beat. The dynamic duo filled the stage with their open and fun loving presence giving the crowd a tremendous show. They started with earlier hit “I’ll Take Your Man” before getting into crowd pleasers “Whatta Man” and “Shoop”.ย It wasn’t long before the performance became an aall-outdance party with guests storming the stage showing off their best moves. The DJ kept the party going spinning a few of this summer’s biggest hits such as Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines”.
Once the concert was over we ran up to our room to freshen up before hitting the nightlife at the resort. Our gorgeous room contained 2 plush double beds, a fully stocked mini bar and a grand bathroom. Our windows held a breathtaking view of Connecticut’s lush green foliage and the beautiful lake that surrounds the property. Though we were looking forward to resting after the drive we chose to head back downstairs for a late dinner and a little fun.ย The Mohegan Sun is home to 40 bars and restaurants, guests need only find the right one for their tastes and budget.
We chose to visit the hugely popular Jimmy Buffet’s Margarita-ville.ย The atmosphere is casual and light. The menu features many Caribbean flavors and seafood during average dinner hours but after 11pm only appetizers and sandwiches are available for consumption.ย We ordered a round of wings and cheeseburgers to enjoy while we listened to an amazing live band. The music was fun and festive with a playlist that crossed genres and generations.ย After a few cocktails, we were more than ready to retire to our rooms for a good night’s sleep.
In addition to lushly adorned bedding, guests may also use some of the resorts amenities for an extra dose of relaxation. We rose early the next morning and after an amazing breakfast at the season’s buffet we took advantage of the gorgeous pool and solarium. Located on the third floor of the hotel, the solarium and pool area provide guests with the option of staying inside to enjoy the pool and whirlpool or sunbathe on the outdoor sundeck. Guests may also rent a cabana for the day and enjoy the luxury of a private resting space equipped with an Ipod docking station a flat screen television and a fridge stocked with complimentary refreshments. Also located on the 3rd floor is the hotel spa which is equipped to provide massages manicures and hair styling by licensed professionals.
After our dip in the pool we rushed downstairs to enjoy our last few hours at Mohegan Sun. This resort is a self-contained community of shops and restaurants for every lifestyle. We cruised the shops then played the slots before finally climbing back into our MKZ Hybrid and hitting the road. Like all good things our weekend came to end a lot faster than we would have liked, fortunately, we had the good fortune to leave far more relaxed than we were upon arrival. The Mohegan Sun isn’t just a resort it is a world away from home and the ideal space for relaxation, fun, and stellar performances. Though the summer may be over the Mohegan Sun performance calendar is just warming up. Visit www.mohegansun.com for an up to date list of Wolf Den performances for the remainder of the year.