Stand-up and improv comedy are one of the biggest attractions in Chicago, with the city having a well-earned status as a comedy hotbed. There are numerous comedy clubs in Chicago that are well worth visiting for both tourists and residents. Some of the best comedy clubs in the city include:
Second City
Considered the comic capital of Chicago, the Second city situated in Pipers Alley Mall, 230 W North Ave, launched the comedy careers of several distinguished comedians like Bill Murray, Steve Carell, and Tina Fey. The stages offer a platform for the upcoming comedic geniuses with highly participatory acts that address contemporary topics through political and social satire.
Open hours:
Monday to Friday: 9 am to 9 pm.
Saturday: 8 am to 1 am
Sunday: 11 am to 9 pm
Laugh Factory
A renowned comedy club with established and up-and-coming stand-up comedians as well as unexpected celebrity visitors, Laugh factory started its comic journey in 2012. Located at 3175 N Broadway, this club has seen performances of master comedians like Chris Rock, Jim Carrey, and Robin Williams.
Open hours:
Monday to Thursday: 10 am to 11 pm.
Friday: 10 am to 12 am
Saturday: 10 am to 1 am
Sunday: 11 am to 11 pm
Zanies Comedy Night Club
Zanies Chicago, situated at 1548 N Wells St, is an established comedy club accepting patrons 21 and older and featuring big-name headliners for over four decades. The club has two venues; an older one located in Old Town as well as a more recent facility in Rosemont. Some famous people who have performed in this club include Kathy Griffith, Gilbert Gottfried, Jerry Seinfeld, and Jay Leno.
Open hours:
Monday to Thursday: 7 pm to 9.30 pm.
Friday: 6 pm to 10.30 pm
Saturday: 6 pm to 12.30 am
Sunday: 6 pm to 8.30 pm
The Comedy Bar
A top-notch stand-up club hosting local and international performers, The Comedy Bar located at 162 E Superior St, is the ideal place to enjoy a night out with friends or your partner. Since it is located within Gino’s East Pizzeria, patrons can also grab a pizza while they are there. The club has two stages.
Open hours:
Monday to Saturday: 6 pm to 11 pm.
Sunday: 4 pm to 9 pm
The Comedy Clubhouse
An improv club located at 1462 N Ashland Ave, The Comedy Clubhouse offers access to its Wicker Park location, training opportunities, and performances for a monthly subscription. The BYOB-accepting venue features stand-up, improvised, and scripted comedy – perfect for finding comedy clubs near me. A number of its prominent alumni have since made appearances in TV comedies like SNL, The Office, and Community.
Open hours:
Monday to Wednesday and Sunday: closed
Thursday to Saturday: 7.15 pm to 11.45 pm
