Las Vegas History Series - Bellagio Hotel & Casino

The Bellagio Hotel & Casino - or as this writer often calls it "Terry Benedict's place," Terry Benedict is the fictional owner of the Bellagio in the 2001 remake of the movie Ocean's Eleven - was built on the former grounds of the legendary Dunes Casino. Conceived by Steve Wynn, the construction of the Bellagio began in May of 1996.  When the Bellagio was completed two years later it was the most expensive hotel ever built, at the time, with reported construction cost of $1.6 billion dollars.

The opening night of the hotel was a grand spectral with the invite-only VIP opening ceremony costing a reported $88 million dollars that included the opening performance of Cirque du Soleil's production of "O."

The Bellagio is well-known for The Fountains of Bellagio, the water feature outside of the Bellagio on an 8-acre man-made lake. These fountains entertain both visitors and pedestrians, walking along Las Vegas Boulevard, every day on regular intervals. The vast man-made lake in front of the Bellagio that is home to the fountains was built on the footprint of what was the Dunes Golf Course.

The Bellagio is also well known for the Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. The Conservatory is well known for its seasonal themed displays and its colorful and fragrant flowers are a favorite of hotel guests and Las Vegas locals.

Finally, there is the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art. The gallery was originally built to house Steve Wynn's private art collection. The Bellagio's art gallery has evolved into a world famous rotating exhibition space regularly featuring masterpieces from some of the world's most celebrated artists.

The Bellagio became one of the flagship properties of the MGM Resorts International when the Mirage and MGM Grand Inc. merged in 2000. The Bellagio's name recognition, location and international popularity ensures that the Bellagio has taken its place as one of the legendary Las Vegas casinos.

Bellagio Casino Chips

Chips from the Bellagio are an ideal addition to any collection of chips from modern Las Vegas casinos. 

Bellagio Casino Collage

 

This piece features real postcard art, real casino chips and a miniature roulette table; all on a professionally matted background.  

 

Frame: 18" x 15" (with wire installed, hang ready)

New Item at Spinettis

Lucky Dragon $1 Chip

 

These chips from the newly opened Lucky Dragon casino are in mint condition, add one to your collection today.