When it comes to a good chuckle, Chicago is no stranger to comedic talent turned household names. Jim Belushi and Robin Williams were both born in Chicago. Tina Fey and Michael Meyers both spent time early on in their careers studying and performing at The Second City.
From stand up to improv, choose your own adventure and hold onto your seats. Here are three of the top Chicago comedy venues worth putting on your list of to dos.
The Second City
What do Chris Farley, Amy Poehler, Steve Carell, and Stephen Colbert have in common? They’ve all graced the stages of The Second City theater right here in Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood. And this list of talent is only just the tip of the iceberg.
Every night of the week you’ll find a troupe of performers performing live shows of comedy theater and improvisation. They also offer classes for both adults and kids through The Second City Training Center in everything from directing and producing to writing for television.
Comedy Sportz
Since 1987, this 137-seat theater in Lakeview has entertained visitors of all ages here in the Windy City. Comedy Sportz itself is one of the longest-running, game-based, family-friendly comedy shows in the country with locations across the country. Shows rotate throughout the week but their signature show follows a 90-minute format with two competing improv teams and referees, naturally.
The Comedy Bar
Local and national acts alike have passed through the doors of this stand-up comedy club located inside Gino’s East River North. Their own brewery and full menu, featuring Chicago deep dish pizza, make it a one-stop shop for grub and guffaws any night of the week.