Historical Preservation of Las Vegas Academy

Celebrating a Legacy of Excellence

In 1930, a significant milestone in the educational landscape of Las Vegas was marked by the opening of the city's first high school. Nearly a century later, this institution—originally known as Las Vegas High School—has evolved into the Las Vegas Academy of the Arts, a beacon of creative and academic excellence that continues to shape the city's cultural and educational fabric.


Situated in what was once considered a remote part of the city, the original Las Vegas High School quickly proved naysayers wrong by reaching full enrollment capacity within two years of its inception. This early success was a clear indicator of the community's thirst for educational advancement, setting the stage for the school's long-standing impact on local education.


In 1993, after six decades of serving the community, the institution underwent a significant transformation, reborn as the Las Vegas Academy of the Arts. This pivotal change was more than a rebranding—it was a recommitment to the arts, honoring the school's history while pivoting to a curriculum centered around music, dance, theater, and visual arts. This shift highlighted the school’s dedication to nurturing talent and creativity, cementing its role as a cornerstone in the arts community of Las Vegas.


The Las Vegas Academy of the Arts has not only been a breeding ground for creativity but also a launching pad for its students, many of whom have gained national recognition. The school's legacy is dotted with notable moments, such as the undefeated football team of 1944 and the Las Vegas Rythmettes, a dance troupe that captured the hearts of audiences across the nation. These achievements reflect the school's diverse capabilities in nurturing students with varied interests and talents.


The academy’s influence is perhaps best illustrated by its impressive roster of alumni who have achieved significant success in the arts. Names like Matthew Gray Gubler, Ne-Yo, Molly Bernard, and Julianne Hough resonate not just in Las Vegas but across the globe. Each of these individuals exemplifies the school’s commitment to cultivating the skills and talents necessary for excelling on the world stage.


Today, the Las Vegas Academy of the Arts stands not just as an educational institution but as a cultural icon. It continues to enrich the lives of students and inspire future generations, contributing significantly to the vibrancy of Las Vegas’s cultural scene. The academy's approach to education—rooted in tradition yet forward-looking and innovative—ensures that it remains at the forefront of both artistic and educational sectors.



From its humble beginnings as the first high school in Las Vegas to its current status as a revered arts academy, the Las Vegas Academy of the Arts remains a symbol of excellence and innovation. As it nears its centennial, the academy is a vivid testament to the power of education and the arts to transform lives and shape futures. Every performance and every accolade adds to its storied history, reinforcing its place as a cornerstone of both the past and future of Las Vegas.

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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