I generally prefer taking the 12-24 tracks off a soundboard, usually from the inserts so its pre-fader. If in the case of things are not already mic'ed, or acoustic, then yes, you'll need to mic it yourself. Even still, I would try and get as direct of a signal. You can apply reverb and such to smooth out the sound, plus adding general room mics into the mic. If you try to strategically place room mics in specific places, I could see things just getting more and more distant. It's easier to make something clear sound room-y and than to take something roomy and clean it up.
So basically--close mic what you want, either through soundboard or independently, and get a good room mic sound. Probably one pair at soundboard and then one pair on stage aimed at crowd.