
Comedy Shows In Chicago
Chicago is renowned for its deep-rooted history in comedy. From the rise of improvisational comedy to the ongoing success of stand-up and sketch performances, the city has cultivated an atmosphere where humor thrives. As a result, Chicago is home to some of the best comedy shows and venues in the country, offering both locals and visitors alike an endless array of laughter-filled nights. Whether you’re looking for cutting-edge stand-up, legendary improv, or absurd sketch comedy, Chicago’s vibrant comedy scene has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the top comedy shows in Chicago, the venues that host them, and why the city’s comedy culture has made it a must-visit destination for comedy lovers. So, if you’re in the Windy City and looking for a night filled with jokes, wit, and laughter, read on to find out where you should head to for an unforgettable comedy experience.
Key Takeaways
Chicago is a comedy hotspot. The city offers a rich variety of comedy shows, from stand-up to improv and sketch comedy.
Different venues offer different vibes. From intimate settings like The Lincoln Lodge to the iconic Second City, Chicago caters to a wide range of tastes.
Comedy in Chicago is diverse. Whether you want to see celebrity comics at The Laugh Factory or enjoy a family-friendly improv show at ComedySportz, there’s something for everyone.
Expect top-tier talent. Chicago’s comedy scene has produced some of the world’s best comedians, and many of them perform regularly at local venues
The Second City: Chicago’s Comedy Institutio
Venue: The Second City Theater
Style: Improv, Sketch Comedy
Ideal for: Fans of improv and sketch comedy, long-running performances, group outings, and tourists
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When it comes to comedy in Chicago, The Second City stands at the top of the list. Known as the birthplace of some of the most iconic comedians in the world—such as Bill Murray, Tina Fey, Steve Carell, and John Belushi—this legendary venue continues to deliver cutting-edge sketch comedy and improv performances that captivate audiences night after night.
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Located in the Old Town neighborhood, The Second City offers a mix of classic sketch shows and fresh new material that speaks to the humor of the times. The theater features a rotating selection of performances that combine improv, satire, and social commentary, making it one of the best comedy shows in Chicago. The performers are quick-witted, sharp, and talented, ensuring an evening of unpredictable and hilarious moments.
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If you’re new to improv or sketch comedy, The Second City is a great starting point. The comedy is smart, well-paced, and always relevant. From hilarious skits on modern life to parodies of pop culture and politics, you’ll find something to laugh about. Don’t forget to check out their late-night shows, which often feature up-and-coming comedians and improvisers pushing the boundaries of humor.
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The iO Theater: Pioneering Improv Comedy
Venue: iO Theater
Style: Improv Comedy
Ideal for: Lovers of long-form improv, spontaneous humor, and experimental comedy
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For fans of improv, iO Theater is a must-visit destination. Formerly known as the ImprovOlympic, iO has been a cornerstone of Chicago’s comedy scene since the 1980s. This venue is credited with popularizing long-form improv, a style of improv where performers create extended scenes and stories based on audience suggestions.
Located in the Lincoln Park area, iO Theater is known for its intimate setting and talented ensemble of improvisers who perform in a wide variety of formats, from short games to longer, more complex narratives. The theater features regular performances, including its flagship show, “Harold,” a long-form improv show that has become a staple of the Chicago improv scene.
If you’re someone who enjoys seeing humor evolve in real-time, iO Theater provides the perfect environment to witness how skilled improvisers can take a single suggestion and spin it into a hilarious, intricate web of characters and situations. iO is also home to the iO Training Center, where aspiring comedians can take classes and workshops to hone their skills.
Zanies Comedy Club: Classic Stand-Up in the Heart of Chicago
Venue: Zanies Comedy Club
Style: Stand-Up Comedy
Ideal for: Stand-up comedy lovers, date nights, casual comedy fans, and tourists
If you’re looking for classic stand-up comedy, Zanies Comedy Club is the place to be. Located in the River North neighborhood, Zanies has been a fixture of Chicago’s comedy scene for decades, hosting some of the best stand-up comedians in the country.
Zanies has an intimate yet lively atmosphere that makes it perfect for a night out with friends, a date, or a solo comedy adventure. The club features performances from both nationally renowned comedians and emerging talent. Expect to see big names in the comedy world, as Zanies often attracts established comics who are touring or testing out new material.
The shows are consistently hilarious, with comedians tackling everything from personal anecdotes to observations on current events and pop culture. The club also has an open mic night, where budding comedians can try their hand at stand-up in front of a live audience. Zanies is perfect for anyone who loves the classic art of stand-up comedy, and it’s always a great time.
The Laugh Factory: Big Laughs and Big Names
Venue: The Laugh Factory
Style: Stand-Up Comedy
Ideal for: Fans of diverse comedy, celebrity performances, and high-energy shows
If you’re in the mood for a comedy show featuring a mix of up-and-coming and celebrity talent, The Laugh Factory in Chicago delivers just that. Located in the Lakeview neighborhood, The Laugh Factory is part of a national chain known for its stellar line-ups and consistently funny shows.
The venue regularly hosts big-name comedians, making it a great place to catch your favorite stars in an intimate setting. Expect a high-energy atmosphere where audiences can enjoy a night of non-stop laughs as performers riff on everything from everyday life to topical issues. With its central location and diverse selection of comedians, The Laugh Factory provides a comedy experience that appeals to a wide variety of audiences.
The Lincoln Lodge: A Local Favorite for Stand-Up Comedy

Venue: The Lincoln Lodge
Style: Stand-Up Comedy
Ideal for: Fans of quirky humor, local comedians, and intimate venues
For those seeking a more intimate comedy experience, The Lincoln Lodge is an essential stop. Located in the Logan Square neighborhood, The Lincoln Lodge offers a cozy, laid-back atmosphere where both established comedians and local rising stars perform. The venue has become known for its offbeat, eclectic shows and its commitment to showcasing new talent.
Expect to see a mix of stand-up, sketch, and improv performances at The Lincoln Lodge, all infused with a distinct Chicago flair. The comedians here are known for their unique voices and local humor, offering an authentic comedy experience. The venue also hosts variety shows and themed events, adding a fun and surprising twist to the typical stand-up show.
ComedySportz Chicago: Competitive Improv Fun
Venue: ComedySportz Chicago
Style: Improv Comedy (Competitive)
Ideal for: Fans of improv games, family-friendly entertainment, and interactive shows
If you enjoy improv with a twist, ComedySportz Chicago is a great choice for an evening of spontaneous, competitive comedy. Located in the Lakeview neighborhood, ComedySportz is a long-standing Chicago institution that pits two teams of improvisers against each other in a fast-paced, game-based competition.
Audience participation is a key element at ComedySportz, as attendees provide suggestions and votes for their favorite scenes. The format is lighthearted, family-friendly, and ideal for audiences of all ages. The competition aspect adds a fun layer to the improv, making it an interactive experience that keeps everyone on the edge of their seats.
The Revival: A Theater for Bold and Experimental Comedy
Venue: The Revival
Style: Sketch Comedy, Improv, and Experimental Shows
Ideal for: Experimental comedy fans, theater enthusiasts, and adventurous audiences
For those who enjoy pushing the boundaries of traditional comedy, The Revival is a hidden gem in Chicago’s comedy scene. Located in the Andersonville neighborhood, The Revival is a small venue that hosts a variety of performances, including sketch comedy, improv, and experimental comedy shows.
What sets The Revival apart is its commitment to avant-garde performances that often blend different genres, including comedy, theater, and art. The shows here are often quirky, thought-provoking, and fresh, offering something unique for audiences looking for more than just traditional stand-up or improv.
The Revival’s intimate setting creates an up-close-and-personal experience, allowing audiences to fully appreciate the creativity and innovation of the performers.
The Comedy Bar: Chic Comedy in Downtown Chicago
Venue: The Comedy Bar
Style: Stand-Up Comedy
Ideal for: Fans of high-quality stand-up comedy in a stylish venue
Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, The Comedy Bar offers a modern and stylish environment for those looking to catch some great stand-up comedy. Known for its excellent acoustics and cozy ambiance, this venue regularly features a mix of local talent and national headliners. The shows here are consistently funny, with a variety of comedians covering everything from personal anecdotes to clever observations on life.
If you’re looking for a comedy show that blends contemporary humor with a chic venue, The Comedy Bar is the perfect choice.
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Conclusion
Chicago’s comedy scene is one of the best in the world, offering a wide range of comedy shows that cater to every type of humor and taste. Whether you’re in the mood for classic stand-up, experimental sketch comedy, or an improv experience that keeps you on the edge of your seat, Chicago has it all. The city’s iconic venues, such as The Second City, iO Theater, and Zanies Comedy Club, continue to set the stage for unforgettable performances, while newer venues like The Lincoln Lodge and ComedySportz Chicago add fresh and exciting energy to the scene.