Boston Opera House, Boston

In the heart of Boston's cultural extravaganza stands the charismatic Boston Opera House, a performing arts venue that's like the architectural equivalent of wearing a monocle and a top hat – elegant with a touch of historical quirkiness. Erected in 1928 on the very spot where the old Boston Theatre once hung its hat, this architectural marvel is the brainchild of the ingenious Thomas W. Lamb and a loving tribute to Benjamin Franklin Keith, who, mind you, was like the godfather of vaudeville.

As you saunter past the opera house's flamboyantly dressed Spanish baroque exterior, you'll only get a whiff of the lavish grandeur that awaits inside. In a recent makeover, they painstakingly replicated the original carpet, which, mind you, had to be woven on custom-made looms. They even went ahead and slapped on an extra 4 lbs (2 kilos) of gold leaf onto the fancy woodwork and plaster cornices. So, brace yourself for a grand spectacle complete with murals on the ceiling, fancy gold molding, and curtains so plush they make you feel like royalty.

Now, despite its operatic moniker, the Boston Opera House has grown into quite the chameleon of culture. It's not just for high-brow singing and tuxedos; it's more like your versatile cultural Swiss Army knife. It's a tantalizing throwback to the Roaring Twenties, but also a buzzing hive for Broadway gems, live concerts, and those oh-so-serious political tête-à-têtes. Plus, it's the stage for the Boston Ballet and all their fancy moves, including the fan-favorite, 'The Nutcracker'.