The Best Comedy Clubs in NYC

New York City is famous for its nightlife, and nothing brings people together quite like stand-up comedy. From intimate basement rooms where legends are born, to lively stages where rising stars display their latest act, NYC’s comedy scene has something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip or just looking for a night of laughs, here are some of the best comedy clubs in the city that should be on your radar.

1. Comedy Cellar 

If there's one comedy club synonymous with New York City, this is it. Located in Greenwich Village, the Comedy Cellar has been a staple of NYC's comedy world since the early 1980s. This intimate, brick-walled room is where some of the biggest names in stand-up comedy have performed or showed up unannounced. You should make time in your itinerary to go because they have top-tier lineups, with the possibility of big name drop-ins making each night a unique and memorable experience. (Famous drop-ins from Chris Rock, Amy Schumer, Jerry Seinfeld, and more happen regularly!)

Distance from Moderne: 3.3 Miles

2. Gotham Comedy Club

This is another iconic venue in the stand-up comedy scene. Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Chelsea, the Gotham Comedy Club is another cornerstone in the NYC comedy history. This club usually has a diverse lineups that mix established headliners and rising stars. Another unique thing that this club offers is "talent showcases" to give emerging comedians the chance to perform on the same stage that helped launch the careers of more established household names.

Distance from Moderne: 1.9 Miles

3. Comedy Village

A gem of the Midtown / Times Square / Theater District neighborhood that is perfect for catching laughs almost on any night of the week. The Comedy Village club features a nightly show with a mix of professional comedians and up-and-comers from the local area. With multiple sets per night, this club allows you to fit some laughter and good vibes around your New York City itinerary.

Distance from Moderne: 0.8 Miles

4. West Side Comedy Club

For laughs uptown, West Side Comedy Club combines the neighborhood atmosphere with strong backing performances. One of the benefits of visiting this location, is to get more of a "local" feel since it's location on the Upper West Side tends to be further from most touristy points of interest. Like many of the other locations on this list, you can expect weekly stand-up lineups, open mic nights geared to discovering fresh talent and special events involving more established comedians in the scene. 

Distance from Moderne: 1.2 Miles

5. Rodney's Comedy Club

On the other side of town, more specifically the Upper East Side, you can find yourself at the famous Rodney's Comedy Club. Formerly known as Dangerfield's, which was widely regarded as one of the oldest and more influential clubs in the United States, Rodney's has re-branded and kept the magic intact. The original Dangerfield's closed down in 2020 due to the pandemic, but you can find yourself in the modern incarnation with traditional comedy shows right in New York City.

Distance from Moderne: 1.6 Miles

From iconic stages where comedy legends got their start to quirky spots with unforgettable interactive experiences, New York offers laughs at every corner. Whether you’re a local or just visiting from out of town, make time to take in a comedy set-- it’s one of the best ways to experience NYC’s nightlife, filled with laughter, and unwind from your night with a cozy stay at the Moderne Hotel.