The Best Comedy Clubs In New York City

They say that laughter is the best medicine, but it is also a great way to keep warm during frigid New York winters. Instead of hibernating, bar hopping or channeling your inner polar bear by going for a wintertime walk, we checked out five outstanding comedy shows on stage in the winter of 2015.

Carolines on Broadway

Carolines on Broadway, a small cabaret club when it first opened in 1982 in Chelsea, is a New York City comedy institution. Comedic legends such as Jerry Seinfeld, Rosie O’Donnell, Jay Leno, Dave Chappelle, Janeane Garofalo, and Billy Crystal have performed there. Carolines also produces the annual New York Comedy Festival.
Carolines on Broadway, 1626 Broadway‬, New York, NY, USA +1 212 757-4100

The Comedy Cellar

Located in the heart of Greenwich Village, The Comedy Cellar was opened in 1982 by stand-up comedian Bill Grundfest. Using the showcase format, Comedy Cellar shows featured five to seven comics performing roughly 20 to 30 minute-long sets. Past (and returning) performers included Louis CK, Dave Chappelle, and Darrell Hammond. The venue is also featured in the opening credits of Louis CK’s television show, Louie.
The Comedy Cellar, 117 Macdougal Street, New York, NY, USA ‎+1 212 254-3480

Joe’s Pub

Joe’s Pub, located at The Public Theater in the East Village, isn’t just a comedy venue. Their roster boasts top Broadway performers, dancers, cabaret-style singers, musicians and comedians. Since opening its doors in 1998, Joe’s Pub has helped propel forth the Public’s mission of supporting both emerging and established artists.
Joe’s Pub at The Public, 425 Lafayette Street, New York, NY, USA +1 212 539-8778

The PIT (People’s Improv Theater)

The PIT is not only a great place to catch live comedy, but also one of New York Magazine’s ‘Best of New York’ selections for Best Improv Classes. The theater puts on original shows seven nights a week and the laughter is sure to flow no matter which one you pick. If you’re inspired to try some comedy yourself, sign up for an improv class while you’re there.
The PIT, 123 East 24th Street, New York, NY, USA ‎+1 212 563-7488

UCB (Upright Citizens Brigade) Theatre

The UCB Theatre is one of New York’s most famous comedy clubs and training centers. Started by the Upright Citizens Brigade improv troupe, UCB now has two New York locations, one in Chelsea and one in the East Village. There are too many notable comics who have performed or currently perform at UCB to list, so rest easy knowing that whenever you choose to check out a UCB sketch or improv show, you’re sure to laugh – a lot.
UCB Theatre, 307 West 26th Street, New York, NY, USA +1 212 366-9176