The circuit's most legendary basements and theaters.
"The Regent Theater is a beautifully restored landmark in Downtown Los Angeles’ Historic Core, originally opening in 1914. As the oldest remaining theater on South Main Street, the venue preserves its vintage grandeur through a striking proscenium archway, a gothic-inspired ceiling, and its original sloped floor. Following a restoration in 2014, the space transitioned from a historic movie palace into a premier performance hall that blends early 20th-century elegance with a modern, intimate energy. The theater has established itself as a cornerstone of the LA comedy scene, serving as a key venue for the Netflix Is A Joke Festival and the annual "50 First Jokes" showcase. Its stage has hosted an impressive roster of talent, including Reggie Watts, Atsuko Okatsuka, Beth Stelling, and Eddie Pepitone. Located in the vibrant Bank District, The Regent offers comedy fans a unique opportunity to see top-tier performers in a setting that feels both historic and alive."
"Located on the edge of the Arts District and Little Tokyo, The Moroccan Lounge is an intimate venue housed in a historic 1885 building that holds one of Los Angeles’ oldest liquor licenses. Renovated in 2017 by the team behind New York’s Bowery Ballroom and L.A.’s Teragram Ballroom, the space features a moody, Moroccan-inspired aesthetic with arched doorways and ornate tilework. The layout includes a separate bar and lounge area, partitioning the social space from the performance hall to ensure a focused, high-quality environment for live performances. While widely recognized for its indie music, the venue is a consistent destination for live comedy, hosting touring headliners and special one-night events. Its small stage and state-of-the-art sound system create a uniquely close-up experience for stand-up, attracting performers such as Ben Lapidus and Friendlyjordies. The room offers a polished yet character-filled setting for comedy fans seeking an immersive show in the heart of downtown."
"Located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles’ historic Broadway District, the Orpheum Theatre is a landmark that has anchored the city’s entertainment scene since 1926. Stepping inside feels like a trip back to the golden age of vaudeville, defined by opulent French Renaissance decor, marble-clad walls, and a meticulously preserved Beaux-Arts facade. This storied venue offers a majestic atmosphere that makes every performance feel like an event, providing a grand yet focused setting for live entertainment in the center of the city. The Orpheum is a premier destination for world-class stand-up, frequently serving as a centerpiece for major events like the "Netflix Is A Joke" festival. It has hosted legendary performers ranging from historic icons like Jack Benny to modern stars such as George Lopez, Daniel Sloss, and Ralph Barbosa. For comedy fans, the theater’s exceptional acoustics and historic charm offer a uniquely cinematic experience, ensuring that every punchline resonates throughout one of the most storied rooms in Southern California."
"Located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles’ historic Broadway Theater District, The United Theater on Broadway is a stunning Spanish Gothic landmark. Originally opened in 1927 as the flagship for United Artists, the venue was founded by cinema icons Mary Pickford, Charlie Chaplin, and Douglas Fairbanks. Its breathtaking interior is patterned after the Segovia Cathedral in Spain, featuring an ornate three-story lobby and a vaulted ceiling adorned with thousands of shimmering mirrors that create an atmosphere of Old Hollywood grandeur. Today, the theater is a premier destination for top-tier comedy, hosting major stand-up specials, live podcast recordings, and marquee events like the Netflix Is A Joke festival. Its stage has welcomed comedy heavyweights such as Jim Gaffigan, David Spade, and Ilana Glazer, along with fan favorites like Fortune Feimster and Ali Siddiq. This blend of historic elegance and modern production makes it one of the city’s most iconic rooms for live performance."
"Located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles near the L.A. Live complex, The Belasco is a historic landmark with a storied past. Originally opened in 1926, this architectural gem features a striking blend of Spanish Renaissance and Moorish styles, highlighted by a gilded domed ceiling and ornate detailing. Over the decades, the venue has evolved from a premier playhouse into a versatile entertainment hub, preserving its vintage grandeur while serving as a cornerstone of the neighborhood’s cultural scene. Today, The Belasco is a premier destination for comedy fans, hosting stand-up performances, live tapings, and popular podcast recordings. The venue is a frequent participant in major events like the Netflix Is A Joke Festival, drawing acclaimed headliners to its historic stage. Notable comedians such as Earthquake and Paul F. Tompkins have performed here, offering audiences a chance to experience world-class humor within an atmosphere that feels both grand and uniquely historic."
"Located in the historic Naud Warehouse where Chinatown meets Mission Junction, Pacific Electric is a dynamic live entertainment space that pays homage to Los Angeles’ iconic Red Car railway. Developed by tvg Hospitality, the venue preserves the industrial character of its storied setting while offering a modern, multi-level layout. Its raw architectural charm and central position near the Los Angeles River make it a standout destination for fans looking to experience the city’s vibrant, evolving arts and nightlife scene. The venue is celebrated for its diverse programming, ranging from intimate concerts to high-energy comedy showcases. It has quickly become a key fixture in the local circuit, notably serving as a featured site for the Netflix Is A Joke festival. High-caliber performers such as Jimmy O. Yang, Beth Stelling, and Catherine Cohen have graced its stage, solidifying Pacific Electric's reputation as a premier spot to catch both established stars and rising comedic talent in an authentic, high-energy environment."
"Located at the corner of Wilshire and Western in the heart of Koreatown, The Wiltern is one of Los Angeles’ most cherished landmarks. Originally opened in 1931 as a grand movie palace, this Art Deco masterpiece is instantly recognizable by its striking turquoise terra-cotta exterior. Inside, comedy fans are greeted by an atmosphere of Old Hollywood opulence, featuring intricate murals and a signature sunburst ceiling that makes every performance feel like a major event. The venue has evolved into a premier destination for world-class stand-up, hosting everything from intimate sets to major tour tapings. Its stage has seen legendary performances by comedy heavyweights such as Bill Burr, Ali Wong, and Dave Chappelle. Whether you are catching a rising star or a household name, the theater's historic charm and vibrant neighborhood setting provide a unique, high-energy backdrop for a memorable night of live comedy."
"Located in the heart of East Hollywood, The Vermont Hollywood is a premier performance destination that bridges cinematic history with modern luxury. Originally opened in 1939 as the Campus Theatre, the venue underwent a meticulous transformation before reopening in 2021 as a state-of-the-art live entertainment space. Its sleek, contemporary design and iconic retro-styled marquee create an inviting atmosphere that feels both grand and intimate, making it a standout addition to the Los Angeles comedy landscape. The venue has quickly become a preferred stage for industry icons and rising stars, frequently hosting high-profile stand-up tapings and live podcast recordings. Renowned comedians such as Bill Burr, Marc Maron, and Ralph Barbosa have headlined the room, often as part of major events like the Netflix Is a Joke festival. With its world-class production capabilities and vibrant energy, The Vermont Hollywood offers a polished, top-tier experience for comedy fans looking to see their favorite acts in a sophisticated setting."
"The Wilshire Ebell Theatre is a historic landmark nestled in the heart of Los Angeles’ Hancock Park neighborhood. Since opening in 1927 as part of the Ebell of Los Angeles women’s club, this Italian Renaissance-style venue has served as a cornerstone of the city’s cultural scene. Its ornate architecture, featuring hand-carved details and vintage fixtures, provides a sophisticated backdrop for live performance, offering an intimate atmosphere that makes every seat feel close to the stage. For comedy fans, the Ebell is a premier destination for major tours and high-profile events like the *Netflix Is A Joke* festival. The stage has hosted a wide array of top-tier talent, including Mike Birbiglia, Tom Papa, and Phil Hanley. It is also a favored location for television and film; notably, the acclaimed comedy series *Hacks* used the theater to film Deborah Vance’s stand-up performances. Whether attending a live taping or a touring set, visitors can expect world-class comedy in one of LA's most beautiful historic settings."
"Comedy club located in Los Angeles, CA."
"Nestled in the heart of Griffith Park, the Greek Theatre is one of Los Angeles’ most iconic outdoor venues. Since opening in 1930, this historic amphitheater has offered a grand yet intimate atmosphere, with its stage built directly into a natural canyon in the Los Feliz neighborhood. For comedy fans, the venue provides a unique open-air experience where the city’s natural beauty meets world-class entertainment, making every performance feel like a special event under the stars. While famous for its musical legacy, "The Greek" has become a premier destination for major comedy tours and high-profile events like the "Netflix Is A Joke" festival. The venue's tiered seating and natural acoustics create a focused energy perfect for stand-up. Renowned comedians such as Bill Burr, Jerry Seinfeld, and Bert Kreischer have headlined the stage, with many performers choosing the site for filmed specials. For any fan, the Greek Theatre remains a bucket-list destination to see top-tier comedy talent in a legendary Los Angeles setting."
"Comedy club located in Los Angeles, CA."
"Located in the heart of Hollywood on Sunset Boulevard, Blue Note Los Angeles brings the legendary heritage of the 1981 New York flagship to the West Coast. Situated within the iconic Cinerama Dome complex, the venue offers an upscale, intimate atmosphere that blends mid-century elegance with modern acoustic design. The space features a main showroom and a secondary "B Side" room, both designed to provide fans with a close-up, premium experience that maintains the brand’s reputation for world-class entertainment. While famously rooted in jazz, the venue has become a premier destination for stand-up through its "Blue Note Comedy" series. The stage hosts a diverse rotation of national headliners and rising stars, offering a refined setting for live comedy. Notable performers such as Denny Love and Chris Franjola have been featured on its calendar, cementing the club’s status as a sophisticated hub where high-caliber wit meets the soulful energy of a classic Hollywood room."
"Foxhole Hollywood is an intimate performance venue and studio located directly on the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame. Housed in a historic 1920s building, the space retains its vintage charm while offering a versatile environment for live entertainment. With its low-lit lobby bar and focused main stage, it provides a "hidden gem" atmosphere for comedy fans seeking an authentic and up-close experience in the heart of Los Angeles. The venue hosts a diverse array of shows, from weekly stand-up showcases to unique sketch and character comedy events. It serves as a vibrant hub for both rising talent and established performers, with past lineups featuring comedians such as Atsuko Okatsuka and Esther Ku. Whether attending a curated showcase or a surprise guest set, visitors can expect a high-energy night of comedy in one of Hollywood’s most storied neighborhoods."
"Located in the heart of Los Angeles’ historic Miracle Mile, the El Rey Theatre is a stunning Art Deco landmark dating back to 1936. Originally a cinema designed by Clifford A. Balch, this Mid-Wilshire gem was converted into a live performance space in the 1990s. Comedy fans are greeted by an atmosphere of vintage elegance, featuring ornate chandeliers, lush red velvet curtains, and a grand ballroom layout that creates an intimate yet prestigious setting for live entertainment. While renowned as a legendary music hall, the El Rey is a premier destination for major comedy specials and high-profile tours. Its classic aesthetic has served as the backdrop for iconic filmed sets by performers such as Patton Oswalt and Bo Burnham. From established veterans like Maria Bamford and Marc Maron to contemporary stars like Nick Kroll, the theater consistently attracts elite talent. For any comedy enthusiast, a night at the El Rey offers a chance to experience world-class acts within one of the city's most beautiful historic monuments."
"Located in the heart of Hollywood near the iconic Cinerama Dome, B-Side at Blue Note Los Angeles is the intimate secondary stage within the city’s outpost of the legendary New York jazz institution. While the main showroom hosts global headliners, the B-Side room is designed as a swanky, high-ceilinged space for developing talent and experimental programming. It offers a warm, sophisticated atmosphere that honors its Greenwich Village roots while embracing the modern energy of Sunset Boulevard. The venue has quickly become a premier destination for genre-defying entertainment, frequently blending live music with top-tier comedy. Fans can expect a curated mix of musical improv and hybrid showcases, such as "Stand Up & Slow Jams" and "Beyond the Beat." Notable performers who have graced the stage include comedy heavyweights like Bill Burr and Wayne Brady, alongside veteran hosts like Chris Spencer and Brian Collier, making it a premier destination for fans of both jazz and stand-up."
"Nestled in the Cahuenga Pass of the Hollywood Hills, The Ford is one of Los Angeles’ most historic outdoor performance spaces. Originally built in 1920 as the Pilgrimage Theatre, this intimate stone-terraced amphitheater offers a unique open-air setting surrounded by natural hillside beauty. Now under the stewardship of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association, the venue provides a warm, communal atmosphere that bridges the gap between the city’s rich cultural history and its modern entertainment scene. While renowned for music and dance, The Ford has become a premier destination for world-class comedy, frequently serving as a marquee venue for major events like the Netflix Is A Joke festival. The stage has hosted acclaimed performers such as John Mulaney, Sarah Silverman, and Seth Rogen. For comedy fans, a night at The Ford combines the prestige of a landmark institution with the energy of a top-tier showcase, making it an essential stop for high-profile tours and unique live events."
"Franchise of comedy clubs. The Hollywood location is iconic."
"Comedy club located in Los Angeles, CA."
"Chain of comedy clubs in the United States."
"Established in 1979 by Jamie Masada on the iconic Sunset Strip, The Laugh Factory (Mock) holds a historic place in comedy as the first club to pay its performers. Housed in Groucho Marx's former building, the venue has been recognized by USA Today as the country's top comedy club. It offers an intimate, high-energy atmosphere with a lobby lined with legendary memorabilia, supporting both emerging talent and seasoned icons. The stage has hosted a "who's who" of legends, including Richard Pryor, Robin Williams, Eddie Murphy, and Dave Chappelle. Today, fans can catch signature shows like "Hollywood All-Stars" and "Chocolate Sundaes," which showcases top Black comedic talent. Beyond its nightly lineups, the club is known for its philanthropic spirit, hosting annual toy drives and holiday meals for performers. Whether seeing a household name or a rising star, The Laugh Factory (Mock) is a premier destination for world-class stand-up."
"Located in the heart of the L.A. Live entertainment complex in downtown Los Angeles, the Grammy Museum has been a premier cultural destination since its opening in 2008. While the museum is celebrated for its interactive music history, the intimate Clive Davis Theater serves as its primary stage for live programs. Set within the city’s vibrant entertainment district, the venue offers fans a sophisticated and close-up environment for unique performances. The venue frequently hosts insightful discussions and comedy-driven events, including its "Comedy Month" series. Notable figures such as Kathy Griffin, Fred Armisen, and Donald Glover have appeared for exclusive Q&A sessions and storytelling sets. By blending legendary entertainment history with modern performance, the Grammy Museum provides a warm, professional atmosphere for comedy fans looking for an engaging and personal show experience."