Orpheum Theatre

Originally named the Boston Music Hall, the now somewhat shabby Orpheum was built in 1852. It's hard to imagine that it was once a state-of-the-art venue that housed the New England Conservatory and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. These days, on more gregarious evenings, the lobby is packed wall to wall with drinkers, and the toilets sprout unsavory puddles. But for all its down-at-heel feel, it remains a great medium-sized venue which manages to maintain a cozy ambiance, and attracts some great bands (the Pogues, Arcade Fire and the Fray have all played sell-out shows).