Treat Yourself to a Weekend at del Lago Resort

For years, Waterloo has been synonymous with two things: outlet shopping and a wildlife refuge. Well, it’s time we add one more thing to that list – a visit to del Lago Resort & Casino. The property is home to a variety of activities, and serves as the perfect place for a weekend getaway. Whether it’s a girls’ weekend, a family outing, or an escape with your partner, there are many things to do at del Lago Resort.

It’s also important to note upfront that del Lago values the community they are in, and regularly gives back to local charities and organizations. The resort provides donations and sponsorships to those in need, and helps fund events in the Finger Lakes region.

Thank you to the folks at del Lago for inviting me to experience all that del Lago has to offer!

Enjoy a Gourmet Dinner at Portico by Fabio

If you’re looking for a fabulous dinner out, you’re in for a treat at Portico by Fabio Viviani. The menu features classic Italian and American cuisine, and the prices are most definitely worth the splurge!

To start, choose a drink from the tablet provided at your table (my favorite part). The interactive menu features seasonal cocktails, wine, beer, and spirits. Then it’s time for the tough decision – what to have for dinner! The menu is a blend of signature dishes and seasonal specialties, much of which is sourced locally in New York.

We knew one of us was going to get a steak, but then asked our server for recommendations on a starter. Best. Decision. Ever. Our waitress highly recommended the fig and prosciutto flatbread and it was incredible. Then, end your dinner with a freshly made cannoli – one of the best you can have around.

Originally from Italy, Fabio Viviani became popular on the tv show Top Chef, and has since opened several restaurants across the country. Known for its impeccable food, Portico is also the site for many unique events featuring entertainment paired with multi-course dinners. One of their popular events is Dinner with jazz singer Teddi Fusco. Tickets include a gourmet dinner and live performance.

Check out their upcoming dinner with Kelsey Grammer, featuring a 3-course meal and beer pairings from his brewery, Faith American Brewing in the Catskills.

Get Pampered at Spa del Lago

No girls’ day or relaxing date weekend is complete without a visit to the spa. And at del Lago, you can choose from a variety of spa treatments! The spa offers massages, facials, body wraps, and everything else you’d expect to make you feel like a queen – or a king. They also have typical salon services, including manicures, pedicures, and hair cuts and colors.

Because of their popularity, be sure to book your services in advance of your visit, and then plan to arrive at least 20 minutes before your reservation. That will allow you time to tour the facility and change into the super soft robes provided for your visit.

All guests of Spa del Lago are entitled to use the facility for the remainder of the day. What does that mean? You can enjoy the steam room and sauna with private showers. Or relax in the lounge chairs and drink tea in the male, female, or co-ed sanctuaries. And just like hotel guests, spa guests have access to the state-of-the-art fitness center.

Visitors can also purchase day passes to use the spa facilities without an appointment for spa services, based on availability. Note that the spa is reserved for guests 18 and older, and cell phones are not allowed in order to preserve the tranquility of the space.

Budget tip: book a spa service on a weekday; prices are lower Monday – Thursday!

Go to a Show at The Vine Showroom

No resort is complete without a showroom for live performances. And del Lago’s Vine Showroom is pretty awesome! There really isn’t a bad seat in the house. Doesn’t matter if you’re on the floor, mezzanine, or balcony. There are two bars inside the showroom – one on the first floor, and another (less crowded) one on the second. Grab yourself a beer, wine, or mixed drink to enjoy the show.

The Vine hosts a variety of entertainment within the venue. Of course their most popular event is musical concerts, but they also host magicians, comedians, and live movie screenings with the actors.

Upcoming performances at del Lago include:

• Dashboard Confessional – Friday, November 11
• Country Swagg – Thursday, November 18
• Paul Anka sings Sinatra – Saturday, November 20
• Blake Shelton – Saturday, December 4
• Ventriloquist Terry Fator – Friday, December 10
• Sara Evans – Saturday, December 11
• Breaking Benjamin – Saturday, December 18
• Scotty McCreery – Saturday, January 22
• Andy Grammar – Saturday, February 5
• Boyz II Men – Saturday, February 19
• Tracy Morgan – Saturday, April 2
• Napolean Dynamite LIVE – Friday, April 22

Since the showroom is located within the casino, all guests must be 21+ to attend any event.

Get a Drink at Centrifico

What better to do after a show at The Vine? Get a cocktail at Centrifico! Located in the center of the gaming floor, Centrifico is a 360-degree bar with a wide variety of wine, beer, spirits, and cocktails. They even have specialty and seasonal cocktails for various occasions. For example, in October, they has a menu of pink cocktails and a dollar from each went to support breast cancer research.

So grab a drink at the bar and enjoy the views of the casino around you – and snap a selfie in front of the water wall. You know you want to! You might also be lucky enough to catch music on the Centrifico stage, so get your dance on while you’re there.

Watch Every Sport at DraftKings Sportbook

If you’re looking for the ultimate place to watch your favorite team play, look no further. DraftKings Sportsbook is THE place to watch all of the games – football, basketball, soccer, hockey, baseball… Why? Because they have over 1,000 square feet of LED television screens so you can see every match, game, tournament, or playoff in high-def.

Plus, it’s a licensed place to do sports betting in New York. There are 4 betting windows and 23 betting kiosks spread throughout the bar and casino. The live odds are on display, so you can stay up-to-date on the predictions. Can you think of a better spot to draft your fantasy teams? (They even have private lounge areas with couches within the bar for you to rent!)

And don’t worry, you won’t go hungry or thirsty at Sportsbook. There are over 30 beers on tap, a fully stocked bar, and a complete dining menu for you to enjoy.

My favorite part? The screens at Sportsbook are so large, you can catch the games even while you’re sitting at the tables or playing the slots!

Try Your Luck on the Gaming Floor

You’re at a casino, might as well try your luck, right?! Well, only if you’re over 21 and have valid ID.

First things first, visit the main desk to get your del Lago rewards card. Like most casinos, you’ll likely get some ‘free play’ to check out the slots if it is your first time visiting the gaming floor. Your card is your access to your gambling money, and also your way of earning rewards redeemable at the restaurants, hotel, and spa.

Now onto the games. There are over 1,700 slot machines of all varieties and bet sizes. Looking for penny slots? They’ve got them. More of a big spender? Choose max bet! Then there are 66 table games. Poker, Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, and all your favorites can be found on the floor.

Lastly, there are always promotions going on at the casino. Slot tournaments, birthday bashes, poker promotions, and more. Make sure to check out when different promotions are happening on their social media.

The staff at del Lago are committed to responsible gaming, and are required to report any instances of ‘problem gambling’. If you struggle with a gambling addiction, please call 1-877-8HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369).

Savor a Pastry at Sociale

Okay, okay, Sociale has a lot more than just pastries. But your visit to the café would not be complete without getting one of their delicious pastries or a scoop of gelato! Sociale Café & Bar has a mix of everything you might need – your morning coffee, a full meal at any time of day, a dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth, or a cocktail to end the night.

The menu at Sociale changes seasonally and features a healthy twist on your favorite dishes. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there are plenty of great options to choose from. (Though I highly recommend the poutine!) Their menu is also available as room service for guests who are staying at the hotel. Oh, and did I mention they have $5 mimosas every morning from 8am – noon?

Explore the Old Family Cemetery

Did you know that there is an old family burial ground on the del Lago property? That’s right, in front of the parking lot, near the car charging stations, you’ll notice a gated area in the lawn. The black fence encloses the ‘Old Weaver Farm Burial Ground’. The tombstones date back to the mid-1800s, and have become so weathered over time that they are no longer legible. But records show the members of the Weaver family who were buried there. The farm stood on the land where the resort now sits, and was known to produce wheat, corn, oats, barley, and apples.

Relax for the Evening at the Hotel

After so many things to do at del Lago, you’re probably exhausted! Luckily, the resort has a full hotel with rooms ready to welcome you for the evening. Having received some of the top ratings from trusted travel companies like AAA, TripAdvisor, and Hotels.com, you know you’re in for a treat.

Room service? Check.

Ridiculously comfy beds? Check.

Spa-quality toiletries? Check.

Awesome tablet to control the temperature, order room service, and contact the front desk. Check, check, check!

More Things to Do at del Lago

Still looking for more activities at del Lago Resort? Fear not, there are some more things for you to consider.

If you need additional food options for an extended stay, consider the more budget-friendly and fast-paced options at the food court. There you will find Smashburger, Laughing Buddha, and Ciccino’s. Then there’s the buffet-style Farmer’s Market Express. And lastly, Savor NY, which has been closed throughout the pandemic, is available for private events.

You can also do a bit of shopping at the spa boutique or Galleria del Lago. Both offer unique gifts for yourself or a loved one back home.

Lastly, while you’re in the area, make sure to explore the Finger Lakes region. Waterloo and del Lago are just one small piece of one of the most beautiful areas in New York – and one of the best wine regions in the world!