Bellagio gardens create underwater ocean scenes in flowers

One of the best free attractions in Las Vegas just converted into a floral-bedecked scene that explores the ocean. The Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens’ new summer display features mermaids, sandcastles and sunken ships through Sept. 12.

To one side you’ll see a 26-foot coral reef filled with acrylic fish and barnacles splashing around the water walls. A different group of underwater creatures reveals itself around the display, anchored by a 6-foot animated clam that opens and closes every seven minutes. Opposite that find a sea turtle made from red carnations and yellow Fuji mums with a group of jellyfish.

Another display features a fisherman’s wharf dubbed Pier B, decorated with oversized strings of pearls and bubbles. Three children made from 1,250 fresh-cut flowers including sea foam statice, cushion mums, carnations, lavender and baby’s breath play in the sand by the pier. One builds a sandcastle version of the Bellagio while his friends play with beach balls.

There’s also a sunken fishing ship made from teak, mahogany and cedar. The boat lost its treasure, which sits sparkling on the beach while water flows through the wreckage.

Another garden comes with a mermaid made from 1,500 fresh-cut flowers in her tail alone. She has her own set of seahorses joining her in the waters.

In all, more than 6,000 flowers are on display, as well as 600 shrubs and 60 trees.

Two live 45-minute musical performances featuring jazz and harps take place daily from 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. and from 5:45 to 6:30 p.m.

The Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The display is free.
Info: Bellagio, (702) 693-7111