This posh venue has graced downtown Boulder since 1906. Originally opened as an opera house, the historic building underwent a massive renovation in the 1980s. Located just off the Pearl Street Mall, the complex hosts nightly concerts, film screenings and other community events. National Public Radio hosts the popular weekly environmental and musical radio show E-Town here. While it remains a popular venue for local entertainers, the theater's cabaret-style seating, preserved art deco ornamentation and state-of-the art sound and lighting system attract national and international artists.

This lively restaurant has all of the charm of a tiny European coastal café. Sunny paintings and brilliant colors bedeck the walls. Lush foliage grows everywhere, and an imported Italian wood burning stove glows in the background. Known for its flavorful tapas, the menu celebrates the succulent entrees of Italy, Spain, Greece and France. The wood-oven-baked pizzas are popular, as is the Eggplant Parmigiana. For dinner, the family style Paella de Mariso is divine. Order a dessert if just to observe the masterful designs created by the pastry chef.

Boulder is bagel crazy, meaning someone prepares the fresh baked delights on just about every corner. This popular shop occupies a spot in the Meadows Shopping Center. It may be a simple looking strip mall location, but heavenly smells will lure you in for a cup of java and a tasty bagel. In addition to a dozen different bagel flavors the store serves muffins and sandwiches. Complement your bagel with a gourmet coffee, espresso, a fruit smoothie or a juice drink. Seating is limited.

This small bakery looks like it belongs any place other than a large shopping center in Boulder. Upon entering prepare to be tempted by the aroma emanating from this food nest's ovens. Choose from traditional sandwiches or go Italian with some Pastas. Lunch specialties include quiche, soups and salads. Or try them all by choosing a combination.

A bit of old Boulder fun lies tucked away on the Pearl Street Mall at this popular gathering spot. This lively pub and cellar is the perfect place for a conversation over a game of pool or darts. The bar is bouncing with energy, and the regulars prefer it that way. Live music rocks the joint every Wednesday night. The menu features traditional pub fare, including burgers, bratwurst and mozzarella sticks. Outdoor seating is available.

Since 1981, this stellar troupe of renowned dancers has amazed Boulder audiences with classical ballet. Led by artistic directors Ana Claire and Peter Davison, the company consistently presents fine ballet presentations like the "Nutcracker" and "Romeo and Juliet." Every year, it teams with the Boulder Philharmonic to present two memorable full-length productions. The Boulder Ballet, in conjunction with the Boulder Arts Academy, also provides ballet instruction for all interested dancers.

Mixing Old World charm with Old West opulence, The Corner Bar and Restaurant, situated inside the Hotel Boulderado, is a great place to relax after a long day. The outdoor patio is the ideal place for a sunny afternoon or clear evening under the stars. Heat lamps keep it warm in cooler weather. Choose from a variety of salads, sandwiches, pastas and appetizers. The bar features a large selection of wines, local beers and microbrews.

The Boulder Outdoor Cinema redefines going to the movies. Once a week during summer months, viewers set up lawn chairs and blankets on the green behind the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art and prepare to make noise. Yes, moviegoers are encouraged to sing along and call out lines from the film. The Applause-O-meter and contests like "Best Film Related Costume" promote audience participation and a lot of fun. A different classic or cult favorite runs each week. Past features have included The Wizard of Oz, War of the Worlds, and Pee Wee's Big Adventure. All shows are suitable for family entertainment.

Another member of the local success Rock Bottom Restaurants, which owns Denver's Rock Bottom Brewery, Chophouse and Old Chicago, this favorite watering hole sits just off the Pearl Street Mall. Occupying an old warehouse, the restaurant provides a relaxed setting for a night out on the town. Watch the brewing process over dinner, or ask for an outside table for a view of downtown. The menu offers a nice choice between typical pub fare of burgers, salads and Mexican dishes, or highbrow meals such as New York strip steak and shrimp and ahi fettuccine.

Located in an old two-story warehouse, BJ's is the perfect place to kick back and relax after a long day exploring the city. The staff is friendly and the casual atmosphere makes it easy to strike up a conversation at the bar. The patio and second floor bar area are great places to watch the people action on the Pearl Street Mall. Sink into a deep dish Chicago-style pizza or a homemade calzone. The menu also includes pastas, salads, sandwiches, burgers and a full bar offering hand-crafted beers like the BJ's Brewhouse Blonde.