Austin has quickly become what many are calling the “comedy capital of the world”, a welcome addition to the town’s original slogan boasting the “live music capital of the world”. We are certainly proud of our live performance scene here and there is ALWAYS something going on. There is, in fact, so much going on that it can be hard to keep track of all the events and shows. Here is our short list of some top comedy clubs in town as well as more shows to look for throughout the week. Many of these places are quintessential parts of the Austin experience and some have been around since the 70’s & 80’s. To be clear, this is in no way a comprehensive list of the comedy scene here. The venues below are listed in no particular order and there are dozens of other bars and events around town where you can catch good comedy. Whether you’re visiting our silly city or living the keep-it-weird lifestyle year-round, you don’t want to miss out on a good laugh at one of these crack up clubs. 

Cap City Comedy 

This legendary comedy club has been providing Austin with laughter since 1986. The city was devastated in 2020 when the club closed during the pandemic, seemingly for good. However, the comedy community here is strong and they were fortunately able to reopen about 2 years later. They took over a new space in the Domain and have been hosting some of the best comedy events the city has to offer once more.

www.capcitycomedy.com

Comedy Mothership

Comedy Mothership is one of the hottest spots in town with huge names in comedy from all over the world. Opened here by comedian/podcaster Joe Rogan himself and frequented by some of the funniest names in comedy. This is the big kahuna in town and hundreds of comedians sign up and wait every week for a chance to perform for an audience here. If you want to see a comedian on one of these stages, you’ll have to buy your tickets as far in advance as possible because they often sell out (sometimes within a few minutes). When you see a show here be prepared to put your phone away in a lock bag and just live laugh love in the moment.

comedymothership.com


Sunset Strip

Sunset Strip feels like the Mothership’s speakeasy, located just a block down Sixth St. This venue works in tandem with them and the Kill Tony show, run by Brian Redban himself. If you can’t catch a show at the Mothership, this is a very strong option. Tickets here are a lot easier to get your hands on and you often get to see the same comedians that show up on stage down the street. Be prepared to put your phone away here too. They have a two drink purchase minimum so plan your night with that in mind.

www.sunsetstripatx.com


The Creek and the Cave

More than a venue, Creek and the Cave is a hub for training, growth, and networking. This is an important piece of the community, allowing comedians to test their new material and meet other rising stars. They host a range of events from local open mic nights to some of the city’s biggest names in comedy. You can walk in here almost any day of the week, even late into the night, and find someone doing their best to make the crowd laugh. Arguably one of the most accessible spots to catch some serious players. This is a personal favorite and many might agree.

www.creekandcave.com

Vulcan Gas Company

Hybrid live music and comedy club based on Sixth Street. This place pulls a ton of the best comedians in town every week, many that come over from Kill Tony and the Mothership. Catch great comedy, raves, parties, bingo, and more at this unique double decker space.


Esther’s Follies

This unique experience is a true Austin staple. A review show that changes weekly, performed by some of the city’s funniest and most talented triple threats. This timeless club presents a fusion of sketch comedy and musical theatre with fresh material often based around current events. This SNL-esque performance is a cherished classic in town and part of Sixth Street's rich history. Founded in the late 70’s and still running shows throughout the week to this day.


Velveeta Room

Right next door to Esther’s Follies is another cheesy stage. This is a classic old Austin venue, proudly boasting to be the longest running comedy club in town. Catch events here like Austin All Stars, PowerBomb, Ladies Night, and tons of featured comedians from all around. A small but mighty space with plenty enough jokes to have you cheesin’.

Rozco’s Comedy

This is somewhat of a newer addition to the scene here that brought a comedy out to the East Side. They have a nice bar and patio and you can find a range of cool events like Dressed to Kill, Friday Night Laughs, and Kill or Spill. Places like this are part of what make Austin a comedy kingpin. You can always find a laugh in this town, no matter the day or time.

Fallout Theater

One of Austin’s underground clubs (literally) but more than that this is a comedy school. You can take classes here in all forms of comedy including improv, standup, clowning, and more! This is the perfect space for beginners to practice and work on their craft. Head here to be an audience for their open mics and other events to support their students.


Hideout Theatre

This is Austin’s improv comedy central. Located right at Congress and 7th, featuring a comedy club and cool coffee shop. If you are looking to get into improvisation, this is the spot to take classes and attend shows. Soon to be moving to a new space so check out the current venue before it’s too late! 

Black Rabbit 

Don’t overlook this dark, divey, underground comedy club! This is a BYOB club so your group can fuel your own night. They have weekly shows and just because this venue is small doesn’t mean you won’t catch some of Austin’s funniest and best comedians. Places like this offer performers a chance to try new material in a forgiving and fun setting. 

Thursday 

Friday