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Comedy clubs in New York

  • 2 days ago
  • 6 min read

New York City is famous for its vibrant comedy scene, where laughter fills the air every night. Whether you are a local or a visitor, finding the perfect comedy club can turn an ordinary evening into an unforgettable experience. From intimate basements to larger theaters, NYC offers a variety of venues where both rising stars and established comedians perform. This guide highlights the top 20 comedy clubs in New York, providing a brief introduction, location details, and booking links to help you plan your next night out.


Eye-level view of a cozy comedy club stage with microphone and spotlight

1. Comedy Cellar


The Comedy Cellar is one of the most iconic comedy clubs in NYC. Known for its intimate setting and surprise celebrity drop-ins, it offers a unique experience for comedy lovers. The club has launched many famous comedians’ careers and continues to showcase top talent. Expect a lively atmosphere and sharp humor every night.


Location: 117 MacDougal St, Greenwich Village, New York, NY 10012


2. Gotham Comedy Club


Gotham Comedy Club is a favorite among both comedians and audiences. It features a classic brick-walled interior and a spacious stage. The club hosts stand-up shows, open mics, and special events regularly. It’s a great spot to catch well-known comedians and discover new ones.


Location: 208 W 23rd St, Chelsea, New York, NY 10011


3. The Stand Comedy Club


The Stand offers a modern vibe with a focus on diverse comedic voices. It combines a restaurant and bar with a comedy venue, making it perfect for a full night out. The club is known for its supportive environment for emerging comedians. It also hosts themed comedy nights and showcases.


Location: 116 E 16th St, Gramercy, New York, NY 10003


4. Carolines on Broadway


Carolines on Broadway is a legendary venue located in Times Square. It has been a launching pad for many famous comedians and hosts big-name acts regularly. The club features a large stage and comfortable seating, ideal for a classic comedy night. It also offers special events and comedy festivals.


Location: 1626 Broadway, Times Square, New York, NY 10019


5. Stand Up NY


Stand Up NY is a staple in the Upper West Side comedy scene. It has a welcoming atmosphere and a reputation for showcasing a mix of veterans and newcomers. The club offers daily shows and open mic nights. It’s a great place to experience authentic New York comedy.


Location: 236 W 78th St, Upper West Side, New York, NY 10024


6. The Comic Strip Live


The Comic Strip Live has been entertaining audiences since 1976. It’s known for its classic comedy club feel and for hosting some of the biggest names in comedy. The venue offers a cozy setting with a focus on stand-up performances. It also runs comedy classes for aspiring comedians.


Location: 1568 2nd Ave, Upper East Side, New York, NY 10028


7. New York Comedy Club


New York Comedy Club is a popular spot for both audiences and comedians. It features a relaxed atmosphere and a strong lineup of shows every week. The club supports new talent with regular open mic nights. It’s a solid choice for a casual night of laughs.


Location: 241 E 24th St, Gramercy, New York, NY 10010


8. Broadway Comedy Club


Broadway Comedy Club offers a classic New York comedy experience with a small, intimate venue. It hosts a variety of shows including stand-up, improv, and themed comedy nights. The club is known for affordable tickets and a friendly vibe. It’s a great place to catch up-and-coming comedians.


Location: 318 W 53rd St, Hell’s Kitchen, New York, NY 10019


9. The Creek and The Cave


Located in Long Island City, The Creek and The Cave blends comedy with a lively bar scene. It features a diverse lineup of comedians and hosts special events like comedy festivals and workshops. The venue has a relaxed, artsy feel that attracts a creative crowd.


Location: 10-93 Jackson Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101


10. Dangerfield’s


Dangerfield’s is a classic comedy club with a rich history dating back to 1969. It has a traditional comedy club setup and has hosted legends like Rodney Dangerfield himself. The club offers nightly shows with a mix of established and rising comedians. It’s a must-visit for comedy history fans.


Location: 111 E 59th St, Midtown East, New York, NY 10022


High angle view of a packed comedy club audience enjoying a live show

11. EastVille Comedy Club


EastVille Comedy Club in Brooklyn is known for its friendly vibe and strong local comedy scene. It offers a mix of stand-up, improv, and open mic nights. The club supports new comedians and hosts regular themed events. It’s a great spot to explore Brooklyn’s comedy talent.


Location: 141 1/2 Bedford Ave, Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211


12. Q.E.D. Astoria


Q.E.D. Astoria is a multi-purpose venue that hosts comedy shows alongside other performances. It has a cozy theater space and a welcoming atmosphere. The club features a mix of local and touring comedians. It’s a good choice for those looking to explore comedy outside Manhattan.


Location: 27-16 23rd Ave, Astoria, Queens, NY 11105


13. Union Hall


Union Hall in Park Slope, Brooklyn, combines a bar, billiards, and comedy venue. It offers a relaxed setting with a focus on stand-up and storytelling shows. The club hosts regular comedy nights and open mics. It’s a favorite for those who enjoy a laid-back comedy experience.


Location: 702 Union St, Brooklyn, NY 11215


14. Littlefield


Littlefield is a creative space in Brooklyn that hosts comedy shows along with music and theater. It has a small, intimate stage perfect for experimental and alternative comedy. The venue attracts a diverse crowd and often features themed comedy nights.


Location: 635 Sackett St, Brooklyn, NY 11217


15. Stand Up NY at The Duplex


The Duplex is a historic cabaret and comedy club in the West Village. It offers a mix of comedy, music, and drag performances. The venue has a cozy, vintage feel and hosts regular comedy shows. It’s a unique spot for a night of varied entertainment.


Location: 61 Christopher St, West Village, New York, NY 10014


16. The Slipper Room


The Slipper Room on the Lower East Side is known for its variety shows, including comedy, burlesque, and vaudeville. It has a quirky, intimate atmosphere and hosts many up-and-coming comedians. The club offers a different kind of comedy experience with a creative edge.


Location: 167 Orchard St, Lower East Side, New York, NY 10002


17. Stand Up NY at Gotham Comedy Club


This venue combines the energy of Gotham Comedy Club with the intimacy of Stand Up NY. It offers a strong lineup of comedians and a comfortable setting. The club hosts regular shows and special events, making it a versatile choice for comedy fans.


Location: 208 W 23rd St, Chelsea, New York, NY 10011


18. Broadway Comedy Club at The Broadway Comedy Club Annex


This annex offers additional seating and shows for the popular Broadway Comedy Club. It provides a similar intimate experience with a focus on new talent. The venue is perfect for those looking for affordable tickets and a casual comedy night.


Location: 318 W 53rd St, Hell’s Kitchen, New York, NY 10019


19. The PIT (People’s Improv Theater)


The PIT is a hub for improv and stand-up comedy in NYC. It offers classes, workshops, and regular shows featuring a mix of styles. The theater supports new comedians and experimental performances. It’s a great place to see fresh and innovative comedy.


Location: 123 E 24th St, Flatiron, New York, NY 10010


20. Stand Up NY at The Stand Comedy Club


The Stand Comedy Club’s additional location offers more opportunities to catch great comedy. It features a modern space with a full bar and restaurant. The club hosts a variety of shows and supports a diverse range of comedians.


Location: 116 E 16th St, Gramercy, New York, NY 10003


Eye-level view of a comedy club bar area with patrons enjoying drinks before a show


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