Lumber Baron Inn, Denver

Most people would agree that the Lumber Baron Inn looks like a mansion, but the significance of its cinnamon-colored exterior depends on whom you ask. The city of Denver would say that it's a historic landmark, Frommer's would add that it's a highly recommended bed-and-breakfast with four retro-posh suites, and its cast of actors would call it a stage for their talents.

Each weekend, their murder-mystery dinners entertain audiences with shows such as America's Got Murder! and Icing Bridezilla. Chef and innkeeper Julie Keller precedes each performance with a continually changing menu of eats; previous meals have included grilled chicken with pistachio sauce and sides of red-cabbage slaw and corn bread.

In addition to the murder-mystery dinners—which combine the Supreme Court's tradition of justice and chicken—Lumber Baron features an array of nightlife acts, including magicians, improv sketches, and movie screenings. Outside, the grounds' garden foliage wraps around events such as weddings and mixers.