Bellagio Las Vegas, which opened in October 1998, is best known for its 8.5-acre lake with choreographed fountain shows and the rotating seasonal displays in its Conservatory & Botanical Gardens—Summer 2026 runs from June 13 to September 12. This guide combines official property data, guest reviews from 2022–2026, and verified resort fee information to help you decide whether a stay here meets your expectations.

Last checked: 2026-07-11

Address: 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA · Phone: (702) 693-7111 · Year opened: 1998 · Notable feature: Fountains of Bellagio – a choreographed water show on an 8.5-acre lake

Bellagio at a glance

1 Casino scale

• Bellagio’s casino floor spans about 156,000 square feet with more than 2,300 slot machines (Las Vegas Jaunt)

2 Recent renovation

• In 2023 Bellagio completed a $110 million redesign of all 819 guest rooms and 104 suites in its Spa Tower (Hotel Dive)

3 Seasonal attraction

• The Conservatory & Botanical Gardens runs themed exhibits year-round; Summer 2026 runs June 13–September 12, followed by Harvest and Holiday displays (Bellagio official site)

4 Resort fee 2026

• Bellagio’s nightly resort fee is $55 before tax, amounting to $62.36 after 13.38% room tax (Las Vegas Jaunt)

Label	Value	Source
Address	3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA	Official site
Phone	(702) 693-7111	Official site
Year opened	1998	Facebook (community post)
Notable feature	Fountains of Bellagio – an 8.5-acre choreographed water show	Multiple sources
Casino size	Approx. 156,000 sq ft	Las Vegas Jaunt
Slot machines	Over 2,300	Las Vegas Jaunt
Spa Tower redesign	$110M completed 2023	Hotel Dive
Resort fee (2026)	$62.36 per night (incl. tax)	Las Vegas Jaunt

What is so special about Bellagio?

Bellagio’s distinctiveness rests on three pillars: its iconic fountain show, its world-class public spaces, and a sense of classic Las Vegas luxury. The Fountains of Bellagio, a choreographed water display on an 8.5-acre lake, runs daily and is free to watch from the Strip. The hotel’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens changes themes several times a year—the 2026 Summer exhibit, for example, runs from June 13 to September 12, drawing crowds with massive floral sculptures.

The Fountains of Bellagio

More than 1,000 fountains shoot water up to 460 feet in the air, set to music and lights. The show is free, but the hotel encourages viewers to also explore the lakeside dining and promenade. Hartley Botanic magazine notes that Bellagio’s design was inspired by European lakefront towns, giving it a romantic feel that separates it from more modern neighbors.

Luxury accommodations and decor

Guest rooms at Bellagio are consistently described as elegant and comfortable. The Spa Tower was fully redesigned in 2023 at a cost of $110 million, covering 819 rooms and 104 suites. The main tower’s rooms have also been refreshed over time, though the Spa Tower now offers the most contemporary finishes. According to Las Vegas Jaunt’s comparison, Bellagio’s rooms lean toward classic opulence with marble bathrooms and rich textiles, while Aria’s are more tech-focused.

World-class dining and entertainment

Bellagio houses several fine-dining restaurants, including Picasso (two Michelin stars), Le Cirque, and Prime Steakhouse. Entertainment runs from the live show O by Cirque du Soleil to the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art, which hosts rotating exhibitions. The gallery has featured works from artists such as Fabergé and glass sculptor Dale Chihuly.

The bottom line: Bellagio’s blend of free public attractions (fountains, Conservatory), a recent room renovation, and a classic luxury atmosphere make it a unique anchor on the Strip, especially for first-time visitors and couples seeking a romantic setting.

Which is nicer, Bellagio or Aria?

Both are top-tier MGM Resorts properties on the Strip, but they offer distinctly different interpretations of luxury. Bellagio is often described as classic and romantic; Aria is modern and tech-forward. The choice depends on personal taste and priorities.

Room quality and design

Aria’s Sky Suites have earned the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Award, a recognition Bellagio’s standard rooms do not carry. However, Bellagio’s Spa Tower rooms after the 2023 renovation are contemporary and spacious. Las Vegas Jaunt’s analysis concludes that Bellagio rooms feel more opulent, while Aria’s emphasize technology and a sleeker aesthetic.

Casino and nightlife

Bellagio’s casino is larger—about 156,000 square feet versus Aria’s estimated 150,000 square feet. A Reddit discussion in r/vegas suggests that Bellagio’s casino floor and sportsbook are considered superior, while Aria’s bar and restaurant scene receives higher marks for variety.

Pool and spa compared

Bellagio’s pool complex is a series of five heated pools set in Mediterranean-style gardens, a classic design that feels private and romantic. Aria’s pool area is more modern and includes a party vibe at the Liquid Pool Lounge. Both have full-service spas, but Bellagio’s Spa & Salon is larger and offers a wider range of treatments.

The trade-off: Choose Bellagio for a classic romantic experience and iconic atmosphere; choose Aria for modern luxury, Forbes Five-Star suites, and a younger energy.

Are drinks at Bellagio free?

Yes and no. Complimentary alcoholic drinks are offered to guests who are actively gambling on the casino floor, but they are not free for everyone. This is a long-standing Nevada tradition, though the rules have tightened in recent years.

Casino comp drinks

If you are playing slots, table games, or video poker at Bellagio, cocktail servers will bring you drinks at no charge. However, according to Legal US Poker Sites, MGM and Caesars have introduced digital validation systems at bar-top machines to ensure only active gamblers receive comps. Non-players sitting at bars are not served complimentary drinks—they must purchase them.

Hotel lounge policies

Outside the casino, all drinks are paid. The Petrossian Bar and Bellagio Bar operate on a pay-for-service basis. The only exception is the Golden Hour experience at the Conservatory, which includes complimentary refreshments (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) for booked guests.

Tipping etiquette for free drinks

The term “free” is misleading because cocktail servers expect a tip. Standard practice is at least $1 per drink, and $2–$5 for more complex cocktails or better service. According to Drink Me Magazine, tipping generously often results in faster, higher-quality service. For premium spirits at Bellagio, you may need to request them specifically, as servers default to well brands.

The catch: “Free” drinks at Bellagio are a perk for active gamblers, not a universal amenity. Budget for tips if you plan to take advantage of comps, and don’t expect free service at bars.

What happened in Bellagio, Las Vegas?

In July 2023, a shooting occurred near the Bellagio Fountains area, resulting in two fatalities. The incident was widely reported by local news outlets such as KSNV News 3 Las Vegas, which also covered MGM’s subsequent security reviews.

Overview of the 2023 shooting

Two people were shot and killed in the public area between the Strip sidewalk and the Bellagio’s lake. The suspect was later apprehended. The event was an isolated criminal incident, not terrorism-related.

Security response and aftermath

Bellagio and MGM Resorts increased visible security presence in the area, including additional uniformed officers and surveillance. The shooting did not lead to long-term changes in access to the fountain viewing area, which remains free and open 24/7.

Impact on visitors’ perception

While the incident is mentioned in some travel forums, it has not significantly affected Bellagio’s overall guest rating or foot traffic. The hotel continues to draw millions of visitors yearly. For context, Las Vegas as a whole has a low violent crime rate in tourist corridors compared with other U.S. cities.

Why this matters: The 2023 shooting was a tragic but isolated event; security measures were reviewed and no lasting structural changes were imposed. Most visitors will find the property safe, especially within the casino and hotel areas.

Bellagio specifications

Category	Detail
Total rooms & suites	Approximately 3,933 (after Spa Tower expansion)
Casino floor	156,000 sq ft
Slot machines	Over 2,300
Table games	139 table games (estimate)
Pool complex	5 heated pools, Mediterranean gardens
Notable attraction	Fountains of Bellagio (free)
MGM Rewards tier	Available; elite tiers can waive resort fee
Opened	October 15, 1998

Bellagio vs. Aria vs. Wynn vs. Venetian

Feature	Bellagio	Aria	Wynn	Venetian
Luxury rating	Classic, romantic	Modern, tech-forward	Opulent, resort-style	Italian-themed, spacious
Room price range (per night)	$200–$800+	$180–$600+	$250–$900+	$150–$500+
Casino size	156,000 sq ft	~150,000 sq ft	~110,000 sq ft	~120,000 sq ft
Pool complex	5 pools, romantic setting	Modern with party lounge	Large with cabanas	Multiple themed pools
Dining options	Fine dining (Picasso, Le Cirque)	Modern cuisine (Bardot, Sage)	High-end Asian (Wing Lei)	Canal-side eateries
Free attraction	Fountains, Conservatory	Public art, CityCenter	Lake of Dreams show	Gondola rides (paid)

Note: Room prices are approximate and vary by season. Resort fees ($62.36 at Bellagio and Aria) are additional unless waived by loyalty status.

Pros and cons of staying at Bellagio

What does it cost to stay at Bellagio?

Room rates fluctuate significantly based on demand, season, and day of the week. Standard rooms on weekdays in low season can be found from around $200 per night, while weekends and peak holiday periods (New Year’s, CES) can reach $500–$800 for a standard room. Suites start near $800 and climb to several thousand per night for the Chairman Suites. The nightly resort fee of $62.36 (including tax) is added to every reservation.

Direct bookings through Bellagio’s official site often give access to MGM Rewards discounts and package deals. Third-party sites may offer slightly lower base rates but rarely waive the resort fee.

Location and how to get there

Bellagio sits at 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, right in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, between Caesars Palace and the Cosmopolitan. It faces the Eiffel Tower replica at Paris Las Vegas across the street.

• From McCarran International Airport (LAS): about 3 miles, a 10–15 minute drive. Taxi or rideshare cost ~$15–$25.
• By car: Use the I-15 exit at Flamingo Road or Tropicana Avenue. Bellagio’s valet parking costs $18 for non-hotel guests; self-parking in the attached garage is $15 (up to 24 hours).
• On foot: The hotel is connected to the Strip sidewalk and accessible via pedestrian bridges at the Flamingo/Strip intersection.

Alternatives near Bellagio

If Bellagio doesn’t match your style, several comparable luxury resorts are within a five-minute walk:

• Aria – Modern luxury, Forbes Five-Star Sky Suites, larger pool party atmosphere.
• Wynn – Opulent design, Lake of Dreams show, and a more resort-like layout.
• The Venetian – Italian-themed, spacious suites, and canal gondola rides (paid).

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to stay at Bellagio?

Standard rooms typically range from $200 to $500 per night, with suites starting around $800. The nightly resort fee is $55 before tax ($62.36 after tax). Prices are higher on weekends and during major events like CES or New Year’s Eve.

What restaurants are at Bellagio?

Bellagio has over a dozen dining venues, including fine-dining restaurants Picasso (Michelin two-star), Le Cirque, and Prime Steakhouse. More casual options include Sadelle’s (bagels) and the Buffet at Bellagio.

What is the Bellagio phone number?

The main reservation line is (702) 693-7111. The toll-free number is 1-888-987-6667.

Can I walk around the casino with drinks?

Yes, Nevada law allows open containers in casino corridors and on the Strip. Alcoholic drinks are permitted in the casino and adjoining areas, but not in gaming pits themselves while table games are in play.

How do I book a room at Bellagio?

You can book directly through Bellagio’s official website or by calling (702) 693-7111. Third-party sites like Expedia and Booking.com also offer reservations, but direct bookings often include MGM Rewards perks and potential rate discounts.

Sources cited

• Bellagio official website (MGM Resorts)
• ARIA Forbes Travel Guide Awards
• Las Vegas Jaunt – Bellagio vs Aria comparison
• Hotel Dive – Bellagio Spa Tower redesign
• KSNV News 3 – MGM resort fee increase
• Legal US Poker Sites – Free drinks policy change
• Drink Me Magazine – Free drinks tipping guide
• Hartley Botanic – Bellagio design inspiration
• Facebook – Aria resort fee confirmation
• Reddit r/vegas – Bellagio vs Aria discussion

Interested in other hotel reviews? Read our Hard Rock Hotel Orlando review and Shore Hotel Santa Monica review for more travel insight.