As one of the best-known mega-resorts in the world, Bellagio knows how to pull in the crowds. The design for this glamorous resort, which celebrated its grand opening in 1998, is inspired by the Italian town of Bellagio on Lake Como. Its much-photographed lobby ceiling showcases Dale Chihuly’s intricate “Fiori di Como” art installation which includes over 2000 hand-blown, coloured glass flowers. Bellagio is famed for its massive lake and incredible fountains, which are lit up at night—a familiar sight for cinema fans, as they formed the backdrop for the 2001 film Ocean’s Eleven.
A trip to Vegas wouldn’t be complete without a little gambling, and the elegant casino in Bellagio is one of the best places in the world to try a hand of cards or roll those dice. Spanning an entire floor, the gaming area is loud and busy, but undeniably glamorous. More than 2300 slot machines light up the floor and jackpots can reach into the millions.
Serious gamers can put on their best poker face in Bobby’s Room, named for Bobby Baldwin, who became the youngest Main Event champion at the 1978 World Series of Poker. With its high table limits and stylish setting, Bobby’s Room is regularly packed with professional poker players and celebrities, but visitors are welcome.
Bellagio is about so much more than just gambling, though. The hotel is home to the world-famous circus troupe Cirque du Soleil’s spectacular production “O”, and includes a conservatory and botanical gardens decorated according to the seasons, and a sumptuous spa and salon.
The Fountains of Bellagio, just outside the main entrance to the hotel, are essential viewing for any visitor to Vegas. The free, choreographed water show is set to music, including Vegas favourites like “Luck be a Lady”, and boasts more than 1200 illuminated jets of water shooting skywards. Shows run every 15 or 30 minutes, depending on the time of day. Your hotel reception will be able to provide information on the timing of the shows during your visit.
Bellagio is located in the middle of The Strip. The monorail, public bus and mini-bus shuttles all stop here. Ask at your hotel reception for day rates on bus and monorail passes.
