Colorado

Since opening during the Roaring Twenties, the Gothic Theatre had a long run as a movie house until Steve Schalk took it over, saving it from the wrecking ball. Schalk remodeled and rebuilt the venue from the foundation to the roof, but left theater's art-deco-style interior intact. Now it's a magnificent venue with old-world charm, great sound and a progressive booking policy. Beyond its aesthetic qualities -- and there are many -- the theater takes chances on lesser-known national acts, as well as providing a home for creative local projects that might not otherwise have a stage. The Gothic brings heart, art and plain old beauty to the otherwise messy business of concert promotions.

Built in 1907 as the Mammoth Roller Rink, the Fillmore Auditorium has a long and storied history as an entertainment venue. As Mammoth Gardens and Mammoth Events Center, the building hosted sporting events, parties and shows for more than six decades. After a multimillion-dollar renovation in 1999, the venue reopened as the Fillmore -- with decor reminiscent of Bill Graham's famous Fillmore in San Francisco -- and has hosted countless renowned musical acts, including Bob Dylan, David Bowie and Coldplay.