You’re driving down Route 365 in Verona, and it hits you. This massive, glass-clad monolith rising out of the Central New York countryside like a neon lighthouse. That’s the Turning Stone Casino Tower. It’s basically the skyline of Oneida County. For a lot of people heading to the resort, the big question isn't whether to go—it's whether you should drop the extra cash to stay in the Tower versus the Hotel or the Lodge.
Honestly, it’s a valid question. The Tower is the tallest building between Albany and Syracuse. It’s got 21 floors of rooms that were recently overhauled to the tune of millions of dollars. But "expensive" doesn't always mean "better" depending on what you’re actually there to do. If you're just there to grind out 12 hours at the poker tables, the view might not matter. But if you're looking for that "I've actually escaped my life" feeling, the Tower is a different beast entirely.
What the Turning Stone Casino Tower gets right (and what it doesn't)
Most people assume the Tower is just about the height. It's not. Since the 2024 renovations, the vibe inside has shifted from "standard high-end hotel" to something a lot more contemporary and, frankly, less stuffy. They went heavy on the Oneida Indian Nation culture without making it feel like a museum gift shop. You’ll see it in the patterns on the carpets and the artwork on the walls—it’s subtle, but it’s there.
The floor-to-ceiling windows are the real MVP here. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Adirondacks. It’s pretty wild to watch a storm roll across the valley while you’re sitting in a plush chair with a drink. However, let’s be real: if you end up on a lower floor facing the parking garage, you’re going to feel a bit cheated on the price point. Always, always ask for a high floor facing the golf courses when you check in. It makes or breaks the experience.
Room layouts and the "luxury" factor
The rooms in the Turning Stone Casino Tower aren't just bigger versions of the Hotel rooms. They’ve got a specific flow. The bathrooms are usually the highlight—massive walk-in showers, high-end stone finishes, and lighting that actually lets you see your face. They’ve moved away from those old-school, bulky dressers and replaced them with streamlined furniture that makes the 450+ square feet feel even larger.
One thing that surprises people is how quiet it is. You’d think being attached to a massive casino with thousands of people would be noisy. It’s not. The soundproofing in the Tower is legit. You can have a bachelorette party at Exit 33 downstairs and a sold-out show at the Event Center, and you still won't hear a peep once you're past the elevators.
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The TS Steakhouse: More than just a view
You can’t talk about the Tower without talking about the top floor. TS Steakhouse is the crown jewel of the resort’s dining scene. It’s one of those places where the menu is basically a list of things you can’t afford to eat every day, but you do it anyway because the atmosphere is killer.
- The Panoramic Bar: Even if you aren't eating a full dinner, go up for a cocktail. The outdoor terrace is the only place in the region where you can grab a drink 20 stories up.
- The Food: They lean heavily into the "Native American inspired" steakhouse vibe. Think corn-crusted items and berry reductions.
- The Bill: Expect to drop a few hundred bucks for a couple. It’s not a casual "grab a burger" spot.
A lot of locals actually skip the gambling and just come for the Tower’s dining. It has a separate entrance and elevators, so you don't necessarily have to weave through rows of slot machines and cigarette smoke just to get to your reservation. That’s a huge plus for anyone who finds the casino floor a bit overstimulating.
Navigating the "New" Turning Stone
The resort is currently in the middle of a $370 million expansion—the largest in its history. This is important because the Turning Stone Casino Tower is no longer the "new kid" on the block. With the addition of the new Grandview Hotel and the massive "The Crest" parking structure, the layout of the resort is changing.
The Tower remains the central hub. It’s the pivot point between the original casino floor, the high-limit areas, and the bridge over to the parking garage. If you stay here, you are right in the thick of it. You’re steps away from 777 Happy Times and the main gaming floor.
Is it better than The Lodge?
This is where the debate gets heated. The Lodge is Turning Stone’s Forbes Four-Star, AAA Four-Diamond boutique hotel. It’s quieter, woodsy, and incredibly posh.
If you want peace and a "spa" vibe, go to The Lodge.
If you want to be where the energy is, stay in the Turning Stone Casino Tower.
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The Tower is for the person who wants to see the lights, hear the bells of the slots, and have easy access to the nightlife at Exit 33. It’s more "Vegas" than "Upstate New York Retreat."
Practical things you actually need to know
Parking is a headache if you don't know the trick. Use the parking garage, but if you’re staying in the Tower, try to get to the third level near the bridge. It saves you a massive walk. Also, the elevators in the Tower are fast, but during check-out time (11:00 AM), they get slammed. If you’ve got a dinner reservation or a show to catch, give yourself an extra 10 minutes just for the vertical commute.
The Wi-Fi is generally solid enough for streaming, which is a rarity for casino hotels. And since the 2024 refresh, they’ve added a ton of USB-C ports near the beds. Small detail, but if you've ever had to crawl under a nightstand to charge your phone, you'll appreciate it.
The Gambling Aspect
Let's talk about the floor. The Tower puts you right above some of the best gaming in the Northeast. Turning Stone isn't just slots; their poker room is legendary in the region. They host major tournaments that draw players from across the country. If you're staying in the Tower for a poker weekend, you’re basically living the dream—eat, sleep, and play without ever seeing the sun.
What most people get wrong about the price
People see the "starting at" prices on the website and think that’s what they’ll pay. It’s rarely that simple. Turning Stone uses dynamic pricing. If there’s a major concert at the Event Center—say, a big country act or a classic rock band—Tower prices will triple overnight.
Pro Tip: If you want the Tower experience without the Tower price, book for a Tuesday or Wednesday. You can often snag a luxury suite for less than a standard room costs on a Saturday. Also, if you have a TS Rewards card, check your offers before you book. Even a "Yellow" level cardholder can sometimes get a discounted rate in the Tower just by staying active on the floor.
Actionable Steps for Your Stay
If you’re planning a trip, don't just wing it. Follow these steps to maximize the value of staying at the Turning Stone Casino Tower:
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- Check the Event Calendar: Before booking, look at who is playing the Event Center or the Showroom. If it's a sell-out show, the Tower will be packed and noisy near the elevators.
- Request a North-Facing High Floor: This gives you the best view of the golf courses and the rolling hills. The south-facing rooms mostly look at the roof of the casino and the parking lots.
- Join TS Rewards Early: Don't wait until you arrive. Sign up online. Sometimes they send "New Member" lodging deals that aren't available to the general public.
- Book TS Steakhouse 3 Weeks Out: If you want a window seat at sunset, you cannot walk in. You need to call or use OpenTable well in advance.
- Use the Valet: Honestly, the walk from the garage to the Tower lobby is long. If you can swing the tip, the valet at the Tower entrance is worth every penny to avoid hauling luggage through the crowds.
The Tower isn't just a place to sleep; it’s the focal point of the entire resort experience. It offers a level of height and perspective you just can't get anywhere else in the region. Whether you're there to hit a jackpot or just to hide out in a high-rise room with a view, it remains the definitive way to experience Turning Stone.