Chicago, Illinois has 9 stand-up comedy clubs, including 4 venues that host open mic nights. Top venues include Under the Gun Theater, Zanies Comedy Club - Chicago, The Comedy Bar Chicago. ComedyClubFinder lists every comedy club in Chicago with addresses, ticket prices, show schedules, and venue details.
Discover 9 stand-up comedy clubs in Chicago, Illinois. 4 venues host open mic nights. Find shows, tickets, and venue details for every comedy club in Chicago.
Under the Gun Theater was a sketch and improvisational comedy theater in Chicago, known for creating original works that combined various theatrical mediums.
Zanies Comedy Club is the premiere comedy club located in Downtown Chicago. Zanies features some of the best comedic talent in the country.
The Comedy Bar’s main stage venue is housed on the spacious third floor at 162 E Superior St which features a performance stage and outdoor rooftop patio, as well as a full bar and dinner menu from Gino’s East featuring their famous deep dish pizza.
iO Theater Chicago's home of long-form improv since 1981. Nightly comedy shows, world-class improv classes, and venue for private events.
Malarkey Comedy is a new comedy company who's only mission is to make you laugh...hard. Not smirk. Not chuckle. Full-on, full-body, oh-no-are-people-looking-at-me laugh. No matter what.
Chicago's Best Standup Comedy is back better than ever. We've compiled the absolute best standup comedy lineup that you will see in the city.
The Second City has been the first name in laughter for over sixty years! From the stages that launched the careers of Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert, Steve Carell and more comes the next generation of comedy superstars.
For over 35 years, The Annoyance Theatre has created some of Chicago’s finest comedy. Home of such iconic shows as, Co-ed Prison Sluts, That Darned Antichrist, and Splatter Theater, The Annoyance uses improvisation to create new and original plays, musicals, sketch-comedy, and more in a vibrant, creative atmosphere.
The Lincoln Lodge is the nation's longest-running independent comedy showcase, offering live comedy shows, stand-up classes, and a creative community in Chicago.
Chicago stands as a true titan in the world of comedy, a city whose comedic legacy is as deep-dish as its pizza. For decades, it has been a fertile ground for groundbreaking talent, shaping the landscape of improv and sketch comedy in ways that continue to influence the entire industry. When seeking out comedy clubs in Chicago, you're not just looking for a night of laughs — you're tapping into a rich tradition that has launched countless stars. The city's distinctive style, rooted in the ensemble-driven, improvisational spirit pioneered by institutions in Old Town, emphasizes character work, sharp wit, and a collaborative energy that sets it apart from any other comedy city in America.
The heart of Chicago's comedy scene beats strongly in Old Town, where legendary venues have fostered generations of comedic genius. Other neighborhoods — including Belmont, Logan Square, and Wicker Park — boast a vibrant array of smaller theaters and independent shows, offering a diverse range of styles from experimental improv to raw stand-up. Weekends offer the widest selection of shows, often featuring both established acts and rising local stars. Weeknights are excellent for catching open mics or more intimate performances, providing a genuine glimpse into the city's burgeoning talent pool.
For those planning a night out, a few practical considerations will enhance the experience. Many venues are 18+ or 21+ after certain hours, so always check age policies in advance. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for popular weekend shows. Parking varies by neighborhood; public transportation or ride-sharing is often the most convenient option. Chicago's comedy scene is an ever-evolving tapestry of talent and tradition, promising an unforgettable night of entertainment. Explore the listings below to find your perfect show.