Find Stand Up Comedians on Tour 2025 Near Me: Your Guide to L.A.'s Best Laughs
- comedyinyoureye
- May 11
- 12 min read
Looking for a good laugh in L.A. in 2025? You've come to the right place. Los Angeles is pretty much the capital of comedy, with venues big and small hosting stand-up shows every night. It can be a bit much trying to figure out where to go, especially with new places popping up and some older ones closing. But don't worry, we've put together a list of the best spots to catch some hilarious stand-up comedians on tour 2025 near me. Get ready to have a great time.
Key Takeaways
The Comedy Store is a legendary spot on the Sunset Strip, known for consistently fresh lineups and surprise drop-ins from big names.
Largo at the Coronet offers an intimate setting to see A-list comedians and storytellers, sometimes alongside live podcast recordings.
The Hollywood Improv is a famous club where you might see your favourite comics just hanging out, with a mix of experimental and well-known acts.
Groundlings Theatre is the place for improv and sketch comedy, having launched many famous actors over the years.
Flappers Comedy Club in Burbank offers shows any time of day, even family-friendly options, and often features well-known comedians.
1. Dynasty Typewriter
Dynasty Typewriter is a real gem in L.A.'s comedy scene. It took over the old Hayworth Theatre space a few years back and quickly became the go-to spot for alternative comedy. You'll find a mix of up-and-coming talent and some seriously big names gracing its stage. It’s not uncommon to see comedians who’ve had residencies there, like Adam Sandler and Hannah Gadsby, or catch regulars like Reggie Watts and Tig Notaro. They also host podcast recordings and various stand-up showcases throughout the week, so there's usually something happening.
This venue is particularly known for its unique atmosphere and commitment to showcasing a wide range of comedic voices.
Here's a little of what you can expect:
A diverse lineup of comedians, from rising stars to established acts.
Regular podcast recordings and special comedy events.
A cosy, intimate setting perfect for catching a show.
They even have a pretty decent concessions stand, which is a nice bonus. You can get fancy chocolate bars and even customise your popcorn. It’s a place that feels both professional and welcoming, making it a solid choice for a night out.
The vibe at Dynasty Typewriter is all about supporting creativity and giving a platform to comedians who are pushing boundaries. It’s less about the traditional club feel and more about a community space for laughter and performance.
If you're looking for a show that might surprise you with its talent and energy, Dynasty Typewriter is definitely worth checking out. Keep an eye on their schedule for upcoming events, you might just catch your new favourite comic. They've hosted some pretty interesting shows, like "Magical Medicine" which featured a whole host of well-known comedians.
2. The Comedy Store
Right on the Sunset Strip, The Comedy Store is a proper institution. It’s been around since the 70s, taking over from a place called Ciro’s, which had a bit of a reputation back in the day.
This place is legendary for a reason, hosting a huge range of stand-up talent pretty much every night. You've got three different stages going, so there's always something happening. It's not uncommon to see big names popping in unannounced, which is always a thrill. You might even catch someone like Sam Morril working out new material.
Here's a little breakdown of what you can expect:
Main Room: This is the big one, often featuring established comedians and surprise guests. Expect a lively atmosphere and a good mix of styles.
The Belly Room: This space tends to host more specific shows, sometimes themed or featuring particular groups of comedians. It's a great spot to discover niche talent.
The Oval Room: Often used for smaller, more intimate sets or showcases, this room can feel quite personal.
It’s worth noting that they usually have a two-drink minimum, so factor that into your plans. Also, Tuesday nights are famous for the Roast Battle, which is usually a riot if you enjoy that sort of thing. It’s a proper comedy club experience, no frills, just laughs.
3. Largo at the Coronet
Largo at the Coronet has a bit of a reputation for being a bit more of a sophisticated night out, and honestly, it lives up to it. It's a smaller, more intimate venue, which means you get a really good view of whoever's on stage. You might not always see big names doing pure stand-up here, but that's part of its charm. Instead, you'll often find live podcast recordings or unique sketch shows.
This place is known for attracting a crowd that appreciates a good story as much as a punchline. It’s the sort of venue where you might catch a comedian trying out new material or a seasoned performer doing a more personal set. It feels less like a rowdy club and more like a special event.
Here's what you might expect:
A-list talent: While not exclusively stand-up, you can often find well-known comedians trying out new bits or hosting special shows.
Live podcast tapings: Keep an eye out for recordings of popular comedy podcasts.
Variety shows: Sometimes the stage is shared with musicians or other performers, making for a diverse evening.
If you're planning a visit, remember that tickets are often unassigned. To get a good seat, especially if you fancy being near the front, it's a good idea to arrive a couple of hours early to check in. They also have a cash-only bar, the Little Room, next door, which is perfect for grabbing a drink while you wait. You might even catch Megan Stalter performing her show "Prettiest Girl In America" on July 25, 2025, for example. It's a great spot for a more curated comedy experience, and you never know who might turn up. You could also see performers like Megan Mullally and Nancy and Beth on October 18, 2025, which sounds like a fantastic night out.
The atmosphere here is generally more relaxed than some of the larger clubs, encouraging a focus on the performance itself. It’s a place that feels like a discovery, where you’re part of a shared experience rather than just another face in the crowd.
4. The Elysian
Tucked away on the edge of Echo Park and Frogtown, you'll find The Elysian. This place is a bit of a gem, a century-old building that was given a new lease of life as a comedy club back in 2021. It's rapidly become the go-to spot on the Eastside for something a little different.
They really focus on helping comedians hone their craft here. You can catch everything from open-mic nights that aim to be inclusive, to work-in-progress shows where you get a sneak peek at new material. It's not just your standard stand-up either; expect a mix of one-person shows, clowning acts, and even variety performances. It's a fantastic place to discover emerging talent and see comedy in its rawest form.
If you're planning a night out, it's worth noting that the theatre itself is on a quieter stretch. However, you're only a short drive from Frogtown's buzzing dining scene. So, you could easily pair a show with dinner at one of the local eateries.
Here's what you might find on their schedule:
One-man shows
Clowning performances
Variety acts
Work-in-progress shows
Open-mic nights
The Elysian has quickly carved out a niche for itself by championing experimental and developing comedy. It’s a space that feels both intimate and adventurous, perfect for anyone looking to experience the L.A. comedy scene beyond the usual suspects. You might even catch a preview of a show heading to the Edinburgh Fringe festival, which is pretty exciting.
Keep an eye on their event calendar for upcoming shows. You never know what unique performance you might stumble upon, perhaps even something like Carl Poteraychke's solo clown show, 'Just To Be Close To You' [e250].
5. Hollywood Improv
Right, so the Hollywood Improv. This place is a bit of a legend, isn't it? It's not just a club; it feels like the heart of the whole L.A. comedy scene. You can rock up on any given night and might just bump into one of your favourite comedians just chilling at the bar. Seriously, it happens. The main room acts are pretty much always top-notch, so you're unlikely to be disappointed.
You'll want to get there a bit early though, as seats tend to fill up faster than you can say 'punchline'. There's a two-item minimum purchase for drinks or food, which is pretty standard, but it's worth it for the quality of the acts you'll see. They put on a real mix of shows, from experimental stuff to more established acts, and you often get surprise appearances from big names. It's a proper institution.
Here's a quick rundown of what to expect:
Main Room: This is where the big hitters usually perform. Expect a lively atmosphere and a good chance of seeing someone you recognise from TV.
The Lab: A smaller, more intimate space next door. This is the place to catch the next wave of comedy talent before they hit the big time.
Variety of Shows: From established stand-ups to open mic nights, there's usually something happening for most tastes.
If you're looking to see some of the history of comedy in L.A., checking out past events at the Hollywood Improv is a good shout. You can get a feel for the kind of talent that's graced their stage over the years. They also have regular shows like "Improv Presents: MONDERAYS" and the "Happy Hour Open Mic", so there are always upcoming comedy shows to check out.
It's one of those places where you feel the history of comedy in the air. You're not just watching a show; you're part of something that's been going on for ages. It's a proper pilgrimage site for comedy fans.
6. Groundlings Theatre
Right then, let's talk about The Groundlings. If you're into sketch comedy and improv, this place is basically legendary. It's where a whole bunch of famous faces, like Will Ferrell and Kristen Wiig, got their start before hitting it big on shows like Saturday Night Live. Seriously, some massive names have walked through those doors.
They've got a packed schedule, so you'll want to check what's on. You might catch a "Sunday Company Show" or "Bad Company," among other improv nights. It's a proper training ground for comedians, and you can see that talent on display.
Improvised Sketch Comedy: Expect hilarious, made-up scenes that will have you in stitches.
Character Work: The performers are brilliant at creating and embodying unique characters.
Live Performances: They have a constant stream of shows, so there's always something new to see.
It's not just about watching, either. They run a whole school for comedy classes, from beginner improv to writing. So, if you've ever fancied giving it a go yourself, this is the place to start. The Groundlings Theatre is a cornerstone of L.A.'s comedy scene, nurturing talent for decades. You can even find tickets for specific shows like "2025, You Hot Mess!" which is a great example of their unique style.
7. UCB Franklin Theater
The Upright Citizens Brigade, or UCB as it's commonly known, has a long history in comedy, starting out in New York and eventually making its way to Los Angeles. The Franklin Theater is one of their main spots here in L.A. It’s a place where you can catch a real mix of comedy styles, not just stand-up. Think improv, sketch comedy, and other more experimental stuff.
They're known for their flagship improv show, ASSSCAT, which has been running for ages. It’s where improvisers take suggestions from a guest and turn them into a whole sketch on the spot. It’s pretty impressive to watch.
UCB has had its ups and downs, like any venue, but they’ve been working to get back to where they were. They even have a smaller space nearby, the UCB Annex, where newer acts try out their material. It’s a good place to see up-and-coming talent before they get really big. You might even catch a show like The Ultimate Stand Up Show here.
It’s worth checking their schedule because you never quite know what you’re going to get, but that’s part of the fun. It’s a place that really supports the development of new comedy.
They often have multiple shows happening on any given night, so there’s usually something for everyone. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a night of laughs that might be a bit different from the usual stand-up circuit. Keep an eye out for special events like Comedy at Night too.
8. Laugh Factory
Right on the Sunset Strip, the Laugh Factory is a proper institution. You know the one, with the big, glowing orange sign? It’s seen some legendary nights, and honestly, some pretty wild ones too. This place has hosted everyone from up-and-comers to absolute comedy royalty.
It’s the kind of venue where you might just catch a big name trying out new material, or perhaps a seasoned pro delivering a killer set. They’ve got a second spot in Long Beach, but the West Hollywood one is the classic.
Just a heads-up, you’ll probably want to book tickets in advance, especially if you’re hoping for a good seat. They usually have a two-drink minimum, which is pretty standard for most comedy clubs, so factor that in. It's worth noting that sometimes vouchers can't be used right at the door, so check the details when you book your tickets.
The Laugh Factory has a reputation for being a place where significant comedy moments happen. It's a venue that has witnessed both incredible performances and, at times, rather unexpected events, cementing its place in comedy history.
They also host various events throughout the year. For instance, in 2025, they were offering free High Holiday services for Yom Kippur, which were available both in-person and streamed, showing a bit of a different side to the venue.
9. Flappers Comedy Club
Flappers Comedy Club in Burbank is a proper institution when it comes to stand-up in L.A. You can pop in pretty much any night of the week and catch a whole range of comics, from absolute beginners to seasoned pros. I've even heard Jay Leno drops by sometimes, which is pretty wild.
The atmosphere is a big part of the appeal, with a definite 1920s vibe that feels quite special. It's a pretty spacious venue, and they've got a full food menu alongside the drinks, which is handy as there's a two-item minimum to meet. Parking is usually a doddle too, with a lot right next door.
They also do something a bit different here:
Open Mic Nights: Tuesdays are particularly popular for these, offering a chance for anyone to get on stage. It's a great way to see raw talent and get some serious bragging rights if you brave it yourself.
Family Shows: On select Saturdays, they have 'Two Milk Minimum' shows, which are specifically for families. These feature magicians, musicians, and puppeteers – a nice change of pace.
Hal Sparks Residency: Keep an eye out for Hal Sparks, who has a residency here on the last Friday of every month. It's always a good bet for a laugh.
It's a solid choice if you're looking for a reliable night of comedy, and they even have a programme for the kids. You can check out their upcoming shows to see who's on.
Flappers manages to feel both classic and current, offering a diverse range of acts in a setting that’s comfortable and fun. It’s a place where you can genuinely discover new talent or catch a familiar face working on new material.
10. HaHa Cafe Comedy Club
Tucked away in North Hollywood, the HaHa Cafe Comedy Club offers a really relaxed vibe, almost like you’re just hanging out in someone’s living room. It’s a great spot if you want to catch a variety of newer comedians trying out their latest material. You won't necessarily find huge names here every night, but that's part of its charm – it’s all about discovering fresh talent.
It’s a no-pressure environment, perfect for a casual night out.
Here’s what you can generally expect:
Diverse Line-ups: Expect a mix of comedians, from those just starting out to more established acts working on new jokes.
Comfortable Setting: The club is known for being cosy and welcoming, making it easy to settle in for the show.
Standard Club Rules: Like most places, there’s a two-drink minimum per person, so be prepared for that.
It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a low-key comedy experience in the Valley. You might not see a celebrity, but you'll likely have a good laugh.
While it's not the place for big celebrity drop-ins, the HaHa Cafe is brilliant for seeing comedians hone their craft. It’s a genuine incubator for talent, and you get to be part of that process.
Looking for a good laugh? The HaHa Cafe Comedy Club is the place to be for a night of brilliant stand-up. We've got hilarious acts ready to tickle your funny bone. Don't miss out on the fun – check out our website for showtimes and tickets!
So, Ready for a Laugh?
Right then, that’s a good look at what’s happening in L.A. for comedy fans in 2025. Whether you’re after big names or just want to see someone new trying out their jokes, there’s loads of places to go. We’ve covered some of the big hitters and some smaller spots too, so hopefully, you’ve got a better idea of where to head for a good chuckle. Don’t forget to check the listings closer to the time, as things can change, but with this guide, you should be well on your way to finding some brilliant stand-up right on your doorstep. Happy laughing!
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I book tickets for comedy shows in 2025?
It's a good idea to book your tickets a few weeks in advance, especially for popular comedians or well-known clubs. Some shows sell out quickly, so getting your tickets early means you won't miss out on the fun.
Do all comedy clubs in L.A. have a two-item minimum?
Most comedy clubs in Los Angeles do have a two-item minimum, meaning you'll need to buy at least two drinks or food items during the show. It's always best to check the specific club's policy when you book.
Can I see famous comedians at these venues?
Absolutely! Many of these clubs, like The Comedy Store and Hollywood Improv, are famous for hosting big names. You might even catch surprise appearances from your favourite stars trying out new material.
Are there comedy shows suitable for families?
Yes, some clubs offer family-friendly shows. Flappers Comedy Club, for example, has 'Two Milk Minimum' shows on certain Saturdays, which are great for younger audiences. Always check the specific show's age recommendations.
What's the difference between stand-up and improv comedy?
Stand-up comedy is when a comedian tells jokes and stories directly to the audience. Improv comedy is when performers make up scenes and characters on the spot, often based on suggestions from the audience. Both are hilarious in their own way!
Where can I find out about specific comedians touring in 2025?
The best way to find out about specific comedians touring is to check the websites of the clubs listed. They usually have a calendar of upcoming shows and the comedians performing. You can also follow your favourite comedians on social media.