With all of the things there is to do in Chicago, you’ll never get bored. There’s many historical places to see, museums, shopping, great places to eat and much, much more. And, if you’re in the mood for some really good laughs, there’s an abundance of great comedy clubs.
Second City has been providing great laughs and comic stars since 1959. The comedy club is famous for launching the careers of some of the best comedy stars today. Mike Myers, John Candy, John Belushi and Bill Murray are just some of the comic greats that started out in Second City!
The comedy theater features two stages that provide an abundance of original comedy skits. Club locations are 1616 and 1608 North Wells Street and it’s open from 9am-9pm Monday through Friday, 10am-9pm on Saturdays and the club dishes out laughs on Sundays from 11am-7pm.
Ticket prices vary depending on the show available, but normally run from $14-$25. Drinks vary from around $4 to $6, some of the foods the club serves include pizza, finger foods, and desserts and they often offer dinner packages with many of the local restaurants.
If comedy is just one of the items on your nights menu, then you’ll definitely want to check out The Spot. The club is located in the former Frankie J’s at 4437 North Broadway and is open from 4pm until 2am Monday through Friday, from noon to 3am on Saturday and noon to 2am on Sundays.
The Spot is a comedy club, piano bar, lounge and sports bar! The menu includes steaks and other American dishes with desserts. The club serves both dinner and lunch and prices range from $9-$15. You can take advantage of their full bar with $5 martinis and margaritas and other specials.
The Comedy Shrine is located on 22 East Chicago Avenue and is a improv comedy club. The club features veterans of other comedy clubs in Chicago such as Second City and Comedy Sportz. Performances are given at 8pm on Thursday and Sunday and 10pm on Friday and Saturday nights.
Admission runs from $18-$23 and requires a one drink minimum from their full liquor bar, which runs between $2 and $6. They serve chips, pretzels and other concessions and provide free parking in their lot.
Zanies just celebrated their 30th year in Chicago! The club located at 1548 North Wells Street has hosted comedian greats such as Larry the Cable Guy, Gilbert Gottfried and many others.
Shows are performed Sunday through Thursday at 8:30pm, Friday at 8:30pm and 10:30pm and Saturday shows are at 7:00pm, 9:00pm and at 11:15pm. Tickets are $22, but that amount is subject to change depending on the show. Admission requires an additional two item purchase which can be either drinks or food.
The club menu includes items like nacho chips and cheese and pizza and features a full bar. Metered parking is available on the street or you can take advantage of one of several parking garages nearby.
The Chicago Improv is at 5 Woodfield Road and features some of the funniest improv acts around. Admission runs around $20 and requires a two drink purchase and show times vary from 7:00pm through 10:15pm.
Entrees include Chicken Tequila pasta at $11.95, Prime Rib at $17.95 and a variety of other delicious dishes. They also serve a grilled chicken sandwich and Improv burger with fries for $8.95. And, as an added bonus diners get priority seating at the club.
