Whether you’re in the mood to see a comedy show or you just want to relax with a drink in hand, there are plenty of options for the best comedy clubs in the country. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of some of the top spots to check out.
Acme
There’s a lot to like about the Acme Comedy Club in Minneapolis. Not only does it boast a great selection of comedy acts, it’s also got a swanky bar, a slew of food choices and free street parking after 6 p.m. It’s also a popular recording stop for the Stand Up Records label.
In addition to hosting some of the city’s best comedy acts, the Acme also hosts a number of special events. These include the annual Comic’s Festival, the best in the Midwest. The venue has a history of bringing national and international comics to the Twin Cities.
Carolines on Broadway
The Carolines on Broadway comedy club has a long and storied history. This Times Square institution has hosted famous comedians and lesser known acts alike. Located in the heart of the theater district, the venue has a seating capacity of 300. It features sketch comedy, live podcasts, and improve comedy. great option when you are looking for comedy clubs near me.
Originally opened as a cabaret in the Soho area of Manhattan, the club later transformed into a full-fledged comedy venue. In addition to presenting live comedy, Carolines hosted a variety of fundraisers and other high profile events. One such benefit was its involvement with the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund.
Yuk Yuk’s
Yuk Yuk’s is one of the most well-known comedy clubs in North America. It operates twelve locations across Canada. With a lineup of the best comedians in the world, the comedy club is a hot spot for a night of laughter. Whether you are in search of standup, sketch acts, or stage performances, Yuk Yuk’s has you covered.
The chain first opened its doors in Toronto in 1976. A former stand-up comic named Mark Breslin teamed up with longtime friend Joel Axler to open the first location on Bay Street. Initially, the shows were held in the basement of 519 Church Street Community Centre. However, they soon outgrew the space.
Goodnight’s
The Goodnights Comedy Club is a comedy club in Raleigh, NC. This venue has been running since 1983, hosting local and national comedians. They also offer dinner specials and drink specials.
They host a weekly open mic night. They have been hosting a variety of nationally recognized comedians, including Jay Leno, Ellen DeGeneres, Chris Rock, Jerry Seinfeld, Louis C.K. and Nick Mullen.
This is an all-ages venue, but you do have to make reservations for larger groups. The venue also offers an upper level restaurant for those that would like to stay. It is also a non-smoking facility.
Laugh Factory
The Laugh Factory is one of the most popular comedy clubs in the world. It’s been hosting top comedy names for over 30 years. This place has been bringing laughs to millions of people.
Founded by comedian Jamie Masada, the Laugh Factory was opened in 1979. Today, it has five locations in the U.S., including Chicago and Los Angeles. In fact, it was voted the #1 comedy club in the United States by USA Today!
Not only does it host some of the best comedians in the country, it is also a great place to see upcoming comedians in the making. The Acme Comedy Troupe provides workshops and classes to help comedians find their voices.
Helium
The name Helium may conjure up images of a crowded clown car, but this family owned and operated company specializes in contemporary entertainment venues. It’s been around for a while, but has only recently added a recording studio. While there is no shortage of options for eating and drinking, the menu at the Helium flagship restaurant in Portland, Oregon is no slouch.
The venue’s signature drink is a surprisingly extensive beer list. There are also plenty of appetizers to choose from. Food and drinks are offered at an affordable price point, but the pricey cocktails aren’t the only thing people are willing to shell out for.
American Comedy Company
The American Comedy Company is a comedy club located in San Diego’s historic downtown district. Located in the heart of the entertainment business, the club features today’s hot touring comedians.
It has an 18-and-up admission policy, and features a 160-seat cabaret-style theater. With a spacious stage and low ceilings, the club encourages contagious laughter.
In addition to its main stage, the Acme Comedy Theatre hosts a series of improv shows. As an established school for standup and improv, the Acme has helped groom comedians like Adam Carolla and Wil Wheaton. A variety of workshops are also offered, helping people develop their own comedic voice.
Zanies of Nashville
If you’re looking for a comedy club that is not only affordable, but also boasts a diverse line up of comedians, Zanies of Nashville is the place to go. This national chain has a long history of providing comedy fans with quality entertainment.
This acclaimed comedy club is located in the Gulch View neighborhood of Nashville, TN. It’s been known for hosting the best comedians for over 35 years. Don’t overlook Zanie’s Chicago either as it also is filled with laughs.
Founded in 1983, the Nashville Comedy Club is a popular venue for local and touring acts. The club is agnostistic and has a strong reputation with civic boosters.
