What can we say: Columbus loves to laugh! In recent years our city’s comedy scene has grown by leaps and bounds, producing recent internet sensations like Matt Rife and Jason Banks. Meanwhile, our largest venues like Nationwide Arena and the Schottenstein Center host some of the biggest names in comedy. (You can also search to see why comedian Simon Fraser says Columbus, Ohio is the Greatest City in the World.)
Looking to explore the local comedy scene? Here’s where to find some of the best stand-up, improv, sketch comedy, revues and more in Columbus!
The Attic Comedy Club
892 Oak St., Olde Towne East
Located above Mikey’s Late Night Slice, The Attic hosts a large variety of shows, from stand-up to improv troupes, roasts, comedy trivia, drag comedy, podcasts, and so much more.
The Nest Theatre
2643 N. High St., Old North
The Nest Theatre features a robust lineup of long- and short-form improv, experimental performances, competitions, improvised musicals, and guest troupes. They also offer a regular lineup of improv classes for all ages and experience levels.
Photo courtesy of Hashtag Comedy Co., located in the Short North Arts District
Hashtag Comedy
1235 N. High St., Short North
Hashtag Comedy just landed a new home in the Short North. It’s a convenient spot for top-notch improv shows, open mics, storytelling, and much more. Hashtag also offers improv classes for kids and adults, as well as corporate workshops.
Columbus Funny Bone
145 Easton Town Center
Located at Easton Town Center, the Columbus Funny Bone hosts the best in local, regional, and national stand-up comedy acts, as well as comedian showcases and other touring shows.
Shadowbox Live, located in the Brewery District
Shadowbox Live
503 S. Front St., Brewery District
In addition to its award-winning rock musicals, Shadowbox Live performs a variety of comedy revues on the main stage and smaller performances in its Up Front cabaret space.
Don’t Tell Comedy
Various locations
Columbus is home a local chapter of Don’t Tell Comedy, a series of pop-up comedy shows hosted at surprise locations. Guests purchases tickets for a specific date, knowing only the neighborhood where the show will take place. The final venue is revealed the day of the show!
Natalie's Music Hall & Kitchen, located in Grandview Heights
Natalie’s Music Hall & Kitchen
945 King Ave., Grandview
While Natalie’s is known for its stellar live music schedule, it also hosts musical improv nights from Hashtag comedy, plus touring comedians.
Woodland’s Tavern
1200 W. Third Ave., Grandview
On top of its winning lineup of live music, Woodland’s Tavern hosts regular comedy nights as well.
Kafe Kerouac
2550 N. High St., Campus
This beloved bookstore, bar, and venue hosts comedy showcases and stand-up amongst its concerts, poetry readings, and other events.
Two Dollar Radio Headquarters
Two Dollar Radio Headquarters
1124 Parsons Ave.
This family-run bookstore and indie publisher hosts a delightful variety of events like poetry nights, writing groups, and a monthly comedy showcase.
Ace of Cups
2619 N. High St., Old North
Ace of Cups is known for a robust live music roster, but they also feature regular comedy showcases.
Law Bird, located in the Brewery District
Law Bird
740 S. High St., Brewery District
Law Bird cocktail bar is home to a monthly series called Stand Up From the Waist Up. Hosted by Travis Hoewischer, the comedy nights usually feature a trio of stand-up acts performing behind the bar, while guests enjoy Law Bird’s award-winning food and beverage menu.
