The Arlington Capital Theater
You won't pay more than four buckaroonis to see a movie in this cute cinema house, and the snack bar offers espresso, ice cream, and frozen yogurt. For similar reasons, check out the nearby Regent Cinema. 204 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington, MA .
Big Night Live
With multiple floors for dancing and drinking — including 26 VIP tables — this state-of-the-art venue books megawatt DJs, meme-inspired parties (see: June’s “ShrekRave”), and electronic-music pioneers. Add the fact that some big names have been known to stop by as guests, too, and you have the makings for a very Big Night. 110 Causeway St., Boston, MA 02114, bignightlive.com.
Artists For Humanity EpiCenter
For those who prefer to color outside the lines, this vast venue provides the ultimate blank canvas. And the EpiCenter is about to get even more epic—this fall, the AFH unveils a revamped 5,000-square-foot event space. Walls are no obstacle here: Just raise the floor-to-ceiling garage-style door to let your soiree flow seamlessly into the landscaped courtyard. 100 W. Second St., Boston, MA 02127, afhboston.org.
Erik Howard (Will Charles Salon)
The finest hairstylist isn't always the best wedding hairstylist. Bridal coiffure requires someone with impeccable listening skills, loads of patience (for dealing with your, ahem, entourage), and a knack for creating breathtaking updos. That's where Erik Howard comes in. The Will Charles Salon co-owner knows big-day tresses should be durable enough to withstand iffy weather and the embraces of well-wishers — not to mention dance-floor revelry. 11 Newbury St., Boston, MA 2116, willcharlessalon.com.
Midway Cafe
Real women appreciate good beer and know how to cut loose when the music starts. That's why so many of them frequent the Midway. Thanks to an event calendar of crowd-pleasers like Queeraoke, the bar's dance floor quakes seven nights a week to a soundtrack spanning R&B to death metal; the anti-decor is underscored by neon beer signs and sprinklings of Americana. And while definitely a home base for the girl-meets-girl crowd, this J.P. joint welcomes good-timers of all persuasions. 3496 Washington St., Jamaica Plain, MA midwaycafe.com.
So Good
Jewelry can be a lot like relationships: Sometimes it's forever, but other times it's only a fling. For those seeking tonight-only bling, the So Good store in Downtown Crossing never disappoints. Two stories filled floor to ceiling with necklaces, earrings, and other eye candy offer maximum flash for minimal cash. This may not be the kind of stuff you take home to Mom, but hey, it'll be fun while it lasts. 443 Washington St., Boston, MA 2108, .
Polka Dog Bakery
The trash bin at the Shawmut-Milford intersection brims with the other kind of doggie bag, the calling cards of tail-wagging patrons who find plenty of reasons to stop here: two floors of homemade treats (tuna cookies for crunching, pig ears for gnawing), fancy leashes, and bright, squeaky toys just waiting to be slobbered over. The variety satisfies even two-legged shoppers—which, let's be honest, are the only critical ones on the premises. 256 Shawmut Ave., Boston, MA 2118, polkadog.com.
Brookline Booksmith
Everything from the aroma of newly bound books down to the creaky wooden floor makes Brookline Booksmith a cherished local institution. Its extensive selection ranges from bestsellers to children's books and even greeting cards and funky gifts. It has a friendly, approachable staff and hosts great author readings in its used-book basement and across the street at Coolidge Corner Theatre. It's a stomping ground for academics, aisle browsers, and researchers and (full—and proud—disclosure) a partner with this magazine's book club. 279 Harvard St., Brookline, MA brooklinebooksmith.com.
Via Matta
Time and again, Via Matta floors us with its marvelous interpretations of Italian standards: The prosciutto is accented with creamy homemade ricotta and piquant (not to mention addictive) pickled vegetables. The greaseless fried baby artichokes are almost dainty. And the pasta—oh, the pasta! While it's tempting to order the justly celebrated Bolognese (again), adventurous diners will be rewarded with more daring options like the rabbit-stuffed tortelli with fava beans, pecorino, and mint. 78 Park Plaza, Boston, MA 2116, viamattarestaurant.com.
Zimman's
The selection of fabrics is so enticing it makes you think about taking that adult ed upholstery course. Whether you're looking for a snippet for the perfect set of throw pillows or vast yardage for lush drapes to pool along your hardwood floor, this is the place. You'll get decorator-quality fabrics at an honest price. Your only problem will be finding someone who can sew. 80 Market St., Lynn, MA .
Biddy Early's
Biddy Early's is the city's best dive every day of the year, a fact that was proven on Friday, April 19. That day, while police hunted the remaining marathon bomber, all of Boston shut down. Not this spot. The old Financial District landmark—with its dim lighting, dusty wood floor, and jukebox—remained open. So even when there was no other place to go and everything seemed beyond reason, people could still haul themselves here for a much-needed, no-frills drink. And that, friends, is everything a dive bar should be. 141 Pearl St., Boston, MA .
Eco Centrix
Two floors of hair stylists, with better music and architecture than many Boston dance clubs. Ask for Mark or Steve, South Boston tough guys who'll talk to you about basketball, hockey, and baldness. Eco Centrix provides all the usual coffee, tea, and funny robes to change into, as well as some interesting people-watching: startling tattooed women with little round glasses alongside guys from Southie talking about the playoffs. 30 Newbury Street, Boston, MA .
Andrew Zona Studio and Day Spa
Past the bustling ground-level salon is one of the area's most soothing (and healing) oases. Andrew Zona's second floor is a temple of quiet body treatments, cleansing facials, and massages so relaxing they're practically coma-inducing. And if you just can't stand to bypass the boutique, browse its selection of international products and pick a tube of Kérastase shine serum or Sundãri moisturizer that will keep your skin in shape until the next visit. 65 South St., Hingham, MA .
Lanes & Games
People outside of New England might not agree, but to be taken seriously around here, alleys have to offer both 10-pin bowling (big ball, finger holes) and candlepin bowling (small ball, no holes). Lanes & Games gets it right by providing a full floor of each, along with a bar that serves cheap eats and beer. No one will blame you for quoting The Big Lebowski at length. 195 Concord Tpke., Cambridge, MA lanesgames.com.
Fourth Fridays at the Milky Way
Once a month, the girls here get the place all to themselves—and is it ever worth the wait. A scorching mix of beats keeps the dance floor jammed, but the real action takes place on the periphery, packed with those who want to lounge, gawk, or straight-up flirt. By the way, promoter DykeNight gives a portion of the door fee to local nonprofits. 284 Amory St., Jamaica Plain, MA 2130, dykenight.com.