24 Best Comedy Clubs In New York City

2 min read 31-12-2024

New York City, the city that never sleeps, also boasts a vibrant and ever-evolving comedy scene. From intimate, dimly lit cellars to sprawling theaters, the city offers a comedy club for every taste and budget. This list highlights 24 of the best, showcasing a diverse range of styles, atmospheres, and comedic talent.

The Big Names & Established Acts:

The Comedy Cellar: A legendary institution, this Greenwich Village club has hosted countless comedy giants over the decades. Expect big names and a consistently high level of talent.
Gotham Comedy Club: Another long-standing favorite, Gotham offers a similar caliber of performers to the Comedy Cellar, with multiple shows nightly. Its Times Square location makes it easily accessible.
Caroline's on Broadway: A Midtown staple, Caroline's provides a polished and upscale comedy experience, attracting both established and up-and-coming comedians.
The Stand: With locations in both the Upper West Side and Midtown, The Stand offers a more intimate setting, fostering a closer connection between the performers and the audience.

Smaller Venues & Hidden Gems:

Eastville Comedy Club: A smaller, more intimate club in the East Village, Eastville offers a great opportunity to discover new talent in a less formal environment.
Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre (UCB): Known for its improvisational comedy, UCB also hosts stand-up shows and offers workshops for aspiring comedians. It's a hub for experimental and innovative comedy.
Comedy at the Knitting Factory: Located in Brooklyn, the Knitting Factory provides a unique atmosphere, blending music and comedy in a vibrant setting.
The Slipper Room: This Lower East Side club offers a unique blend of burlesque and comedy, providing a truly unique night out.

Beyond the Traditional Stand-Up:

Q.E.D. Astoria: This Queens club showcases a wider range of comedic styles, including sketch comedy, improv, and storytelling.
Broadway Comedy Club: This club offers a variety of shows, catering to different comedic tastes and featuring both established and emerging comedians.

Focusing on Specific Niches:

(Note: The following clubs may not always exclusively feature comedy but regularly host comedy shows or events.)

The Bell House (Brooklyn): This venue hosts a wide variety of events, including comedy shows that often feature unique and diverse acts.
Union Hall (Park Slope): Similar to The Bell House, Union Hall is a versatile venue that occasionally features stand-up comedy performances.
Littlefield (Gowanus): This Brooklyn venue also hosts comedy shows as part of its diverse programming.
The Creek and the Cave (Long Island City): This Queens club features a relaxed and intimate setting, often showcasing up-and-coming comedians.

Diverse & Inclusive Spaces:

Village Underground: This multi-use space frequently hosts comedy shows, often showcasing diverse voices and perspectives.

Finding Your Fit:

To make finding the perfect comedy club easier, consider the following factors:

Location: Choose a club conveniently located for you.
Comedian: Check the club's schedule to see who's performing.
Atmosphere: Do you prefer a large, boisterous club, or a smaller, more intimate setting?
Price: Ticket prices vary widely.
Style: Some clubs focus on stand-up, while others offer improv or sketch comedy.

Beyond the Top 15: Expanding Your Choices

To round out this list, here are nine more noteworthy NYC comedy clubs and venues often featuring comedy acts:

Westside Comedy Club
New York Comedy Club
Stand Up NY
Greenwich Village Comedy Club
Dangerfield's
The PIT
East Village Comedy Club
Brooklyn Lyceum
House of Yes

This list offers a diverse range of options for comedy lovers in NYC. Remember to check individual club websites for schedules, ticket prices, and age restrictions. Enjoy the laughs!