I go to Vegas once or twice a year with a dear friend. We see a show, eat too much, shop and contribute to the continued health of the Las Vegas economy. Part of our routine is a stop at the Bellagio's Conservatory and Botanical Garden. This is by far my favorite part of the trip. Each year, each season is a feast for the eyes. We have most often encountered the Fall display but this year our trip was in the spring. Spring generally hosts butterflies and an Asian theme. This year, as you enter, there was a huge pink Torii--a Japanese gate and a Japanese castle that appeared to be a replicate of Himeji-Jo. Mixed in with the Japanese-esque were Chinese elements of humongous vases constructed out of flowers and song birds in cages. Overall it was a pleasing mix. The only season we haven't seen is the Holiday display. This year, we plan to make a trip to Vegas for Christmas shopping and an opportunity to round out our Belagio experience. The best part, is that the conservatory is open to the public at no charge. When staying on the Strip, I try to go around 6 in the morning for an almost private viewing experience. Not much beats, morning coffee and a feast for the eyes. Below are some of my photos from this year.
If you thought you would be getting an overall view, you are sadly mistaken. I am drawn to macro photos and have to force myself to take landscape photos, please click on the link for the Conservatory above for overview photos.
I was instantly transported back to Japan as I stepped into the garden. It was almost a dream scape as memories of visiting Himeji-jo, Kyoto, and other picturesque sites flooded back to me.
There were two humongous Chinese vases crafted with flower petals. I am at a loss of words to describe the attention to detail and overall sensory experience.
This year, Koi were added to the water element. I enjoyed tracking this particularly flamboyant fish.
The display offers dimension as well. In addition to the 50 foot Torii (Shinto gate) entryway, birds and butterflies were aloft.
Another butterfly with with a water fall in the background.
Another tulip photo. Flowers abound. I have to shout out my friend Mary and actually off my friends that I visit scenic places with for being patient with me and my camera.
But it isn't just the Conservatory that I drink in. Here is a light fixture at a restaurant outside the conservatory.
The Bellagio is famous for its impressive display of Chihuly glass artwork. This is part of the skylight display outside the Conservatory in the hotel reception lounge.
This Samurai moved from the shopping arcade to the reception area between trips. He is impressive on his massive steed. Thought the seasons, many of the elements are reused or re-imagined. I appreciate that the same pieces tie a previous experience with the current one.
The skylights and overhead in the shopping arcade were adorned with Chinese umbrellas and butterflies this spring.
I also look forward to see what display Hermes has in this store outside the Conservatory. It is always whimsical and appealing.
Vegas isn't only about gambling, but it is 100% about sensory overload. I can't wait for the next visit!