Encore Boston Harbor Opening: What To Know

EVERETT, MA — After years of planning, litigation, controversy and rumors of a last-minute sale that didn't go through, Encore Boston Harbor is days away from opening. The $2.6 billion resort and casino opens in Everett this Sunday at 10 a.m.

If you plan on being among the first to check it out, here's what you need to know about navigating the probable madhouse:

Hours

This is an easy one. The casino is open 24/7.

Travel

If you're taking the train...

Take the Orange Line to Wellington or Malden Center, where there will be free shuttles arriving every 10-20 minutes. There will also be a shuttle running every 20 minutes from the Wonderland stop on the Blue Line for the opening.

If you're driving...

You might want to avoid this option on opening day, but the casino itself has 3,000 parking spaces that will run you $22 for six hours and $42 for 24 hours. It will also offer parking at nearby locations.

If you're taking the bus...

The Encore Neighborhood Runner runs 24 hours between the Chelsea Silver Line stop, Everett City Hall, the Rivergreen parking lot and the casino. There is also the $7 premium bus from park-and-ride lots in Londonderry, NH, Rockland and Millbury.

Can I take a boat?

You can. Encore offers a $7 boat from the World Trade Center dock at the Seaport and the Long Wharf North dock downtown.

Lodging

The 3.1 million-square-foot casino has 671 hotel rooms and suites and a spa with 17 treatment rooms.

How much does a room go for?

The best rate for a two-night stay in a premier king will set you back $895 a night ($806 with a Bruins special offer code). It only goes up from there. Click here for a full list of rooms.

Gambling

The complex features 88 poker tables, 3,158 slots and 143 table games ranging from Blackjack to Mini Baccarat. Drinks are free and last call is extended to 4 a.m. while you're gambling.

Dining and Nightlife

Encore Boston Harbor has 15 bars and restaurants (descriptions courtesy of Encore Boston Harbor):

Mystique: "Enjoy shareable, Asian-inspired dishes and artful sushi in a seductive atmosphere against the backdrop of Boston’s skyline."

Waterfront: "Enjoy a thoughtful selection of local spirits and craft beer in a convivial environment."

The Oyster Bar: "Celebrate the best of New England with locally-caught oysters, clams, crab, and lobster, all prepared right before your eyes."

Fratelli: "Famed restaurateurs Frank DePasquale and Nick Varano bring their Southern Italian specialties honoring Boston’s North End to The Encore Boston Harbor."

Red 8: "Cantonese noodle dishes, Hong Kong-style barbecue and Dim-Sum specialties are served in this dynamic room."

On Deck Burger Bar: "With front-row seats to all the sports action, outstanding burgers and other casual favorites, On Deck Burger Bar is sure to be a fan favorite."

Sinatra: "From Ossobuco “My Way” to Frank’s Spaghetti with Littleneck Clams, our tribute to Ol’ Blue Eyes serves modern twists on the classic Italian cooking Frank loved."

Rare Steakhouse: "Rare redefines the steakhouse experience in an elegant room with stunning waterfront views, and the finest cuts of international and domestic beef."

Garden Cafe: "Impeccably fresh, seasonally driven modern American favorites take their place against the backdrop of the magical Garden Lobby."

The Buffet: "Eternally fun and whimsical, The Buffet at The Encore Boston Harbor features live-action stations, global dishes and fabulous desserts."

Bru: "Espressos and lattes, plus all-day quick bites—from sweet to savory—are available 24 hours a day."

Dunkin': "Open 24 hours daily, the New England staple Dunkin’ adjacent to our casino offers coffee specialties, baked goods and more."

Center Bar: "You will not miss any of the action at Center Bar, located right in the heart of the gaming floor."

Garden Lounge: "Specialty cocktails in a seductive vibe are the centerpiece of this upscale craft cocktail lounge above the lushly landscaped Garden Lobby."

Memoire: "Big Night Entertainment Group, the award-winning operators of The Grand at Boston’s Seaport bring their newest nightclub experience which includes top-tier DJ talent and sophisticated interiors."