Another Strip Property is Closing!

The Strip is Losing Its Iconic Volcano

Las Vegas is saying farewell to one of its most iconic landmarks. The Mirage Hotel and Casino, along with its famous volcano, is set to close its doors on July 17, 2024, after more than three decades of defining the Strip’s landscape.


The Mirage: A Historical Touchstone

The Mirage, which opened in 1989, was a game-changer for Las Vegas, setting a new standard for luxury and grandeur on the Strip. Developed by Steve Wynn, the resort was the first of its kind to feature a major sidewalk attraction, the iconic volcano, which inspired similar features at other luxury resorts like the Bellagio and the Venetian. Beyond the volcano, The Mirage was home to Siegfried and Roy’s white tiger show and the enduring Cirque du Soleil show "Love," which brought Beatles fans together for 18 years. The resort’s tropical theme and luxurious offerings set the tone for the development of future megaresorts in Las Vegas.


A Major Transition

The closure is part of a significant transformation, as the property will undergo a three-year renovation to become Hard Rock Las Vegas. This new era will see the introduction of a 700-foot-tall hotel tower shaped like a guitar, similar to Hard Rock's Florida property. This dramatic redesign will replace the beloved volcano, making way for new rooms and modern amenities. Hard Rock International, owned by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, acquired The Mirage from MGM Resorts in 2022 for over $1 billion. This marked the first time a Native American tribe would operate a property on the Las Vegas Strip.


Impact on Employees and Guests

With the closure, more than 3,000 employees will be laid off starting in July. Hard Rock has committed to paying over $80 million in severance. The Culinary Workers Union, representing about 1,700 of these employees, ensured that laid-off workers will receive $2,000 for each year of service, with the option to return when the hotel reopens. Mirage guests with reservations beyond July 14 will have their bookings canceled and refunded. Casino chips must be used by July 14 at The Mirage but can be redeemed at Treasure Island for an additional 120 days.


The Future of Hard Rock Las Vegas

The reimagined Hard Rock Las Vegas is set to reopen in 2027. The new resort will feature a 660-foot-tall, guitar-shaped hotel tower with floor-to-ceiling glass panes, reflecting the modern and vibrant spirit of the Hard Rock brand. The redesign includes plans for 25 restaurants and a 5,000-seat theater, enhancing the entertainment options available on the Strip. The closure of The Mirage marks the end of an era, but it also heralds the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Las Vegas. The Hard Rock Las Vegas promises to bring fresh energy, innovation, and world-class hospitality to the Strip, continuing the legacy of luxury and entertainment that The Mirage started.

Dive-In Movies at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas: Summer 2025

June 9, 2025
This summer, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas invites guests to its iconic Boulevard Pool for the return of Dive-In Movies, a unique poolside cinema experience. Every Monday evening from May 19 to September 1, guests can enjoy a selection of blockbuster hits and timeless classics projected on a 65-foot digital marquee, all while lounging poolside or taking a dip in the pool. Event Details: • Dates: Mondays, May 19 – September 1, 2025 • Doors Open: 6:15 PM • Movie Starts: 8:00 PM • Location: Boulevard Pool, Level 3, accessible via the Boulevard Tower escalators • Admission: $15 for non-hotel guests; $10 for Las Vegas locals with valid ID; complimentary for hotel guests, Identity Membership & Rewards members, first responders, and military personnel with valid ID; children aged 5 and under are free. Upcoming Movie Lineup: • June 9: Harry Potter & The Sorcerer’s Stone • June 16: Wicked • June 23: The Goonies • June 30: Top Gun • July 4th: Top Gun: Maverick • July 7: Despicable Me • July 14: Inside Out 2 • July 21: Happy Gilmore • July 28: Elf • August 4: Lilo & Stitch • August 11: Twilight • August 18: Mean Girls • August 25: Legally Blonde • September 1: Good Burger  For those seeking a more luxurious experience, cabana and daybed reservations are available, which include a food and beverage minimum and complimentary admission to Dive-In Movies. Reservations can be made by calling 702.698.6797. Whether you're a hotel guest or a local resident, Dive-In Movies at The Cosmopolitan offer a memorable way to enjoy a night out under the stars with the Las Vegas Strip as your backdrop. The above info is subject to change, stay up to date on The Cosmopolitans website. https://cosmopolitanlasvegas.mgmresorts.com/en/entertainment/dive-in-movies.html

Wagging Tails Rescue: Giving Hope to Homeless Dogs in Las Vegas

June 4, 2025
Nestled in the heart of Las Vegas, Wagging Tails Rescue is a dedicated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to saving homeless and abandoned dogs from high-kill shelters and owner surrenders. Unlike traditional shelters, Wagging Tails Rescue operates through a network of loving volunteers and foster homes, providing temporary safe havens for dogs — especially pregnant moms and orphaned puppies — until they find their forever families. With no physical facility, the rescue’s strength lies in its community of passionate foster caregivers who nurture these pups with love, care, and attention. Beyond rescuing dogs, Wagging Tails Rescue champions responsible pet ownership through education on spay/neuter, positive behavior training, and proper nutrition. Want to meet some of these adorable dogs and maybe even adopt? Keep an eye on their Instagram @waggingtailsrescuelv for updates on frequent adoption events. From fun puppy yoga sessions to gatherings at Petco and even “Puppies and Pints” at Lovelady Brewery, there are plenty of opportunities to support and connect with this amazing rescue. Every wagging tail tells a story — and at Wagging Tails Rescue, those stories always end with hope and a happy home.

Las Vegas Parking Guide

May 27, 2025
If you’re a first-time visitor to Las Vegas, the idea of paying for parking might not be as big of a deal as it is to those of us who’ve been around for a while. Just a few years ago, it was practically unheard of to pay for parking on The Strip. Free parking was a standard expectation for both locals and casino guests alike. But times have changed, and many of the big casinos along the iconic Las Vegas Strip have started charging for parking. While we’ll let you draw your own conclusions about whether or not parking fees are justified (locals, we feel your pain), we’re here to guide you on where to park on the Las Vegas Strip. So, buckle up, and check out our list to see where you can park for free as a local! First three hours of self-parking are free for locals: • The Aria • The Bellagio • Caesar’s Palace • The Cosmopolitan • The Cromwell • The Excalibur • The Flamingo • The LINQ • Luxor • The MGM & Park MGM • Planet Hollywood • Wynn & the Encore Free Parking across the board • Rio • The Palms As a final tip when it comes to visiting the strip: Check and see if the casino does any sort of parking validation. A lot of times they will give you free parking if you spend a certain amount of money inside, are a guest (on a staycation) or are a certain tier level among their rewards programs. Remember, it never hurts to ask. If you're visiting Las Vegas, be sure to check with your hotel about whether parking and valet services are included when you book your room. It's a cost worth factoring into your trip planning!
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