Bellagio and the Strip

Now that I no longer live in Vegas, I can play the true tourist when I go back.  One must on my to do list every time is to stop by Bellagio and see the conservatory and botanical gardens.  To me, Bellagio is just one of those places you have to see, especially since the conservatory changes throughout the year.  The atrium showcases one of the most elaborate floral displays imaginable.  Unfortunately, it's always a challenge to find a good time to visit when it's less crowded so you can enjoy the peace and tranquility the gardens bring. 

One other thing to check out at Bellagio is the lobby and the ceiling display of 2000 hand blown glass flowers from renowned artist, Dale Chihuly.  I attended a traveling exhibit of Chihuly's works in Orange County years ago and the process to create these works are amazing.

  I had to attend the exhibit for a college art course, otherwise I probably would've never heard of him.   When walking through the Bellagio conservatory, there is a Chihuly retail store at the rear and you can learn more about his work.  Another large display of Chihuly's works can be found at Atlantis in the Bahamas.  He was commissioned to complete some incredible ceiling displays for the resort.  Unfortunately, those were some of my photos destroyed after a computer virus, otherwise I would've included them in my Bahamas blog. 

Lastly, no visit to Bellagio is complete without a walk outside to see the fountains and the amazing water show.  It's beautifully choreographed with music and they rotate the shows so you can hang out in the area for awhile and see different ones.  I love to hang out and watch at least two while I am in the area.   One place that's great to watch the shows is across the street from Mon Ami Gabi in the Paris Hotel.  The food is excellent but it's a long wait for a table on the patio once the water shows start.  We didn't have time this particular trip nor would I have wanted to brave the COLD weather that long to sit outside for dinner!! :-)