Eight Ways To Enjoy the Bellagio For Less Than $20

Ever since it was built, the Bellagio has been one of the grand dames of the Strip. It’s a beautiful resort, but even if you can’t afford to stay there, you can still enjoy some of the amenities for less than $20.

Here are my picks for some cheap ways to spend a couple of hours at the Bellagio:

1] The Fountains –

Of course, this would make the list. Millions have been spent on this elaborate water show that takes place nightly out in the front lagoon. With jet sprays synchronized to a nightly playlist of specially chosen Vegas-themed songs, this is one of the city’s best shows to witness. Best of all, it’s completely free.

Performances take place every 30 minutes, Monday – Friday, 3 pm – 7 pm; Saturday & Sunday, noon – 7 pm; After 7 pm daily, performances are every 15 minutes until midnight.

2] The Botanical Conservatory –

An always changing display of specially created topiaries is one reason the Bellagio Conservatory is a must-visit.

Each season has its own theme, theatrically arranged by over 100 expert horticulturists, and the resort occasionally does a bonus display or two a year.

It’s also free and is open around the clock. Not to mention it usually provides some great photo opportunities.

3] The Chihuly Glass Display –

Standing in the lobby of the Bellagio, look straight up. This one-of-a-kind display in the ceiling was created by artist Dale Chihuly.

It features 2,000 blown-glass flowers of varied colors and sizes and is free to check out.

Chihuly also has a store at the Bellagio if you’d like to check out more of his work.

4] The Bellagio Gallery of Fine Arts –

View exhibits by some of the world’s most influential and renowned artists at this gallery. The displays change several times a year and is a must-see for those that love art.

The gallery is open Sunday through Tuesday and Thursday from 10 am to 6pm; Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 7pm.

Tickets are $15 for adults; $12 for seniors; and $10 for students and military.

5] The Chocolate Fountain at Jean-Philippe Patisserie –

Take in the free mouthwatering display of the one of a kind chocolate fountain at the Jean-Philippe Patisserie.

At a record-breaking height of 26 ft, 3 and 3/16 inches, the glass enclosed sculpture circulates two tons of melted dark, milk and white chocolate at a rate of 120 quarts a minute.

When you can’t stand it anymore, pick up one of the special dessert creations offered for sale and savor the chocolate goodness first-hand. Confections start around $5.

6] Live Music at the Fontana Bar and Lounge –

Inside the bar is a revolving line-up of first class musicians.

Outside, the patio offers amazing views of the Bellagio fountain show.

Open 5pm until 1am (2am Fridays through Sundays), admission is free. It’s the drinks that will cost you.

7] Window Shop the Upscale Boutiques –

Armani…Chanel…Dior…these are but a few of the names that line the halls of the shopping areas of the Bellagio.

Buying costs thousands, but to look is free.

Hours are 10am until midnight daily for most of the stores.

8] Grab a Drink at Caramel –

This ultra-lounge is a low-key way to enjoy an evening at the Bellagio.

It doesn’t get as crazy as the neighboring nightclub The Bank, but it’s also a lot less expensive. Open 5pm until 4am daily with a DJ spinning Thursdays through Saturdays.

No cover charge; drinks average $8 for calls and $15 for specialty martinis (try the Oreo Shake).

Do you have a less than $20 way to enjoy the Bellagio? Let us know what it is in the comments.

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If You Go

Bellagio
3600 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
702.693.7111

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[photos: Michelle Snow; MGM Mirage/Bellagio]