Best Comedy Club in North Avenue Beach Area

"Zach & Viggo // Chicago at The Second City 14-16 Zach & Viggo // Toronto at Comedy Bar 19/20 Zach & Viggo // New York at The Peoples Improv Theater 27/28. Not only is The Second City one of the longest-running comedy clubs in Chicago, it is also the place where many of today’s beloved comedians - including but not limited to Bill Murray, Stephen Colbert, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Steve Carell - got their start, so it ’s highly possible that one of the up-and-coming acts performing there will be the next big comedic talent."

"Who doesn't need a few laughs during the cultural chaos that is life in the USA?. The world's premier comedy theatre and school of improvisation, Second City, pokes fun at boomers, millennials, media, and the *&%#@!"

"After dinner, catch transit to Second City to see a show. This theatre specializes in sketch comedy and improv. After opening its doors in 1959, it has become the most influential comedy theatre in the world."

"Zanies has been a premiere location in Chicago for standup comedy since 1978. Local favorites, big stars, and newcomers all share the same stage for the purpose of making at least one of your two-drink minimum come shooting out of your nose. They have three locations to serve the Chicago area, and they provide standup shows on a nightly basis."

"Zanies has been a Chi-Town comedy staple since 1978 and have been the stage of many famous comedians throughout the years. It has excellent service, good grub, good drinks, and of course, some of Chi-Town’s finest comedians each evening. If you’re looking to get a good laugh, Zanies is among the better bars and clubs in Chicago."

"A post shared by Mandy & Morgan (@bacon_wrappeddates) on Oct 16, 2018 at 7:44pm PDT. Zanies Comedy Night Club might be small (patrons literally sit beside each other), but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in humor. Do note that there’s a minimum two-drink and food policy here."

"Located on North LaSalle Drive in downtown, The Comedy Bar is a popular Chicago comedy club that brings the laughs to you on a nightly basis. Featuring an upper-level stage and a main-level stage, this popular Chicago attraction overlooks Gino’s Brewing company and each stage seats more than 100 people. Enjoy a cocktail, a few laughs and a casual night out in downtown with a trip to this venue, known as one of the best comedy clubs in Chicago."

"Jim Belushi has teamed up with The Comedy Bar to make it one of Chicago’s premiere venues for laughs. With its location in the heart of downtown, it makes it a convenient stop for people seeking out a night of entertainment. The venue is modern with no drink minimum so your tipsiness can be determined at your own pace."

"A post shared by Chris and Kerry Walker (@thewalkertwiins) on Oct 3, 2018 at 8:25am PDT. Guests can enjoy good food and drinks while they watch the acts on stage. Besides comedy shows, burlesque shows are also held here, so check the schedule and plan accordingly if you wish to watch a specific performance."

"A post shared by K.Cal (@therealkatiecal) on Nov 4, 2016 at 11:10pm PDT. The name of this establishment is quite apt, as it seems to take pains in bringing its brand of service and humor to another level. A buffet is served here and features a variety of food options."

"The Annoyance Theatre is (proudly) edgier than the other comedy bars in the Windy City — think buckets of fake blood, actors stripping down to their underwear, and wacky premises for improv shows. The theater’s first big hit was its original musical, “Coed Prison Sluts,” which ran for 11 straight years, and then came back to the stage in the late 2000s. Although the musical isn’t currently being performed, you don’t need to fret — the theater has replaced it with plenty of other bawdy shows."

"The Annoyance Theatre & Bar is in the process of moving their venue, but it is well worth following their updates to see when they reopen. They focus strictly on improv shows, from all out themed shows to witty comedians doing their best one-offs. They usually enter the night with the mentality of ‘there are no rules’, but the rule of ‘no comedian can refuse a drink’ comes into play on occasion to transform an already hilarious comedian into a hot-mess that entertains like no other."

"The Laugh Factory is a small yet cozy establishment that has an intimate ambiance. The biggest highlight of this comedy bar would probably be its occasional open mic nights, which give guests the opportunity to realize their dream of being stand-up comics, even for just one night. Be aware that there’s a two drinks minimum policy here, but even non-drinkers can go around this, as non-alcoholic beverages are sold here as well."

"According to stories, The Revival was the birthplace of improv comedy. In fact, it got its name to indicate the intent of bringing it back to its glory days. As a comedy club, The Revival features a mix of acts and performances, ranging from stand-up and improv comedies to skits and musical acts with a humorous twist."

"If you’re looking for fresh comedy or considering doing a 5-minute set yourself, the Gallery Cabaret is perfect for you. Located in Bucktown, just north of downtown, the Gallery Cabaret is a fun dive bar with comedy open-mic nights. They offer decent food, great cocktails, beer, and everything you need for making the nightlife in Chicago fun for you and your friends."

"If you’re into pro wrestling, the arena boasts one of the loudest crowds in the WWE. DePaul University's men’s basketball team, the Arena Football League, Chicago Wolves ice hockey, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, Disney On Ice, and musicians also offer lots of action."

"Breakfast: Dollop Coffee Co. Before you start your exploration of Chicago in earnest, fuel up with a pastry and caffeinated beverage at this third-wave coffee shop, conveniently located near Navy Pier. The almond croissants are the perfect compliment to your morning pick-me-up. There’s no better way to kick off your 3 days in Chicago itinerary."