What to expect: Appointed with a fireplace and fresh flowers, the lobby adjoins a spacious, well-landscaped atrium with plenty of seating. The hotel’s central location and wide array of meeting and recreational facilities draw regional conferees, faith organizations, and social-service groups.

Amenity highlights: Designed for large business and social gatherings, the hotel features 40,000 square feet of event space. Recreational facilities, in a second atrium, include an indoor pool, fitness center, basketball/racquetball court, spa tub, and locker rooms with saunas. In fair weather, the adjoining terrace welcomes sunbathers and also can serve as breakout space for meetings and conferences.

Insider tip: The Timexpo Museum, about four miles away in Waterbury, traces the history of the Timex watch-making company and gives an overview of watches, clocks, and time. Rare timepieces, old-time machinery, and a Time Tunnel exploring ancient civilizations are among the highlights.