Best Local: Comedy Clubs

Have a laugh at any of these Chicago and suburban comedy clubs!

Ranked as one of the best comedy cities in the U.S., Chicago has an extensive comedy history that keeps expanding.  From improvisation to stand-up, spend a night at any of these Chicago and suburban comedy clubs.

A surprised man in a hat and yellow shirt sits at a fortune teller’s table, holding a teacup. The fortune teller, dressed in colorful, ornate clothing, gestures dramatically beside a crystal ball and a lit candle.

Visit the comedy club that put Chicago on the map and has been providing elite comedy for over 50 years, Second City! Started in Chicago in 1959, the club has featured comedy celebrities such as Bill Murray, Tina Fey, Joan Rivers and the Belushi brothers. The venue includes special Chicago-themed shows, stand-up, improv and classes. Only a 14 minute ride on the 36 bus line from State & Chestnut, or a 16 minute ride on the 22 bus line from The Bernardin.

Four adults, three women and one man, dressed in festive clothing with fur collars, smile and pose playfully. One woman holds a black hat with a red band. The background is dark.

Watch the act unfold with improvisation shows at iO Theatre.  Formerly known as ImprovOlympic, iO was founded in 1981 and is known for its premiere long-form improv shows and top-rated comedy classes. Only a 12 minute red line ride from State & Chestnut.  

 

A performer in a red sequined jacket and bow tie holds a microphone and gestures animatedly on stage in front of red curtains.

Grab a pizza and enjoy a show at The Comedy Bar in River North! One of Chicago’s only downtown comedy venues, The Comedy Bar is located on the third floor of Gino’s East River North. The lineup includes new stand-up comedians weekly along with a variety of comedy shows. Only a 4 minute walk from AMLI River North!

A man in a shiny tuxedo sings into a microphone, extending one hand forward. He stands onstage with bright blue and purple lights and an illuminated digital backdrop behind him.

Chicago comedy has even found its way to the western suburbs with Chicago-based comedy club Zanie’s in St. Charles! Hosting shows at Pheasant Run Resort, the venue offers dinner & show packages along with big name comedians. The venue also offers comedy classes for interested comedians! Only a 5 minute drive from AMLI St. Charles.