MGM Grand Hotel and Theme Park Las Vegas, NV This famous destination theme park was the first built outside of Southern California in 1995. This 160 acre complex features a 5,000 room world class hotel, casino, sports venue and theme park. Among the varied urban streetscapes which have been authentically replicated include Central Park, Casa Blanca, French Quarter, Mexican Plaza, Asian Street and Salem Waterfront. Action rides include the Grand Canyon Chute, Northwest Log Slide and Vietnam Jungle. All plantings are drought tolerant and water conserving. The "Land of Oz" Plaza on the Strip and Tropicana Avenue accommodates 25,000 people per hour and is planted with large date palms, drought tolerant plants and contains an interactive fountain with dramatic lighting that incorporates a 12 story electronic billboard. Estimated cost: $25 million.