Looking for some laughs? New York is home to some of the country's funniest comedians, and some of the biggest names in comedy got their start here.
Caroline's on Broadway
A place popular as a stepping-stone for future famous comedians is Caroline's on Broadway. Comedians like Dave Chappelle, Jay Leno, and Chris Rock all had their start here and still stop by occasionally. Caroline's offers shows every night with local comedians, and its shows are as colorful as the decor. Shows are affordable, but do include a two-drink minimum. They're also popular and crowded, so arrive early for your scheduled Comics. Admission: Tickets vary (plus a two drink minimum).
- Admission: $15-$30 (plus a 2 drink minimum)
- Subway Stop: C, E, 1 to 50th Street, N, R, W to 49th Street
- Location: 1626 Broadway, New York, NY
- Phone: 212-757-4100
- Website: www.carolines.com
Gotham's Comedy Club
Another big-name club is Gotham's Comedy Club. Comfortable seating and a bright décor give this club a more relaxed vibe. If it looks familiar, you might have seen it on Comedy Central's "Live at Gotham". For the wanna-be comedians, Gotham offers comedy classes that address every part of the industry you might be interested in.
- Admission: $10 (plus one drink minimum)
- Subway Stop: 1 train to 23rd Street and 7th Ave, C and E train to 23rd Street and 8th Ave
- Location: 208 West 23rd Street, New York, NY
- Phone: 212-367-9000
- Website: gothamcomedyclub.com
Comix
As for the club Comix, the first thing that hits you when you enter is the chic interior. You would almost believe that it wasn't a comedy club until some of the great acts come on stage like Aziz Ansari and Robert Schimmel. Comix offers great happy hour deals and even has days where shows are free!
- Admission: tickets vary, plus a two drink minimum
- Subway Stop: A, C, E, and L to 14th Street and 8th Ave, 1, 2, and 3 to 14th Street and 7th Avenue
- Location: 356 West 14th Street, New York, NY
- Phone: 212-524-2500
- Website: www.comixny.com
Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre
If improv is more your comedic style, the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre is the place to go. Located in mid-town, it excels in improv and sketch comedy. And not only do they stage it, but they also teach it. Comedians like Robin Williams, Mike Myers, and Will Ferrell have all appeared in performances here. Tickets are affordable, but they go fast, so get them early.
- Admission: $5-$8
- Subway Stop: C, E, F, and 1, 9 to 23rd Street
- Location: 307 W. 26th Street (between 8th and 9th Ave.)
- Phone: 212-366-9176
- Website: www.ucbtheatre.com
