When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Laugh Factory
Why Laugh Factory is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Laugh Factory, established in 1979 on Hollywood's iconic Sunset Boulevard, stands as a premier comedy club attracting both locals and tourists seeking top-tier entertainment. With a rich history of launching the careers of legendary comedians such as Richard Pryor and Paul Mooney, it offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for social gatherings and memorable nights out. The venue comfortably accommodates around 300 guests, creating an intimate setting that strengthens the connection between performers and the audience. Beyond its historic legacy, Laugh Factory fosters upcoming talent through its renowned Tuesday night Open Mic events, curated personally by owner Jamie Masada. Guests can enjoy diverse comedic styles across its multiple shows, ensuring that laughter resonates throughout the evening. Additionally, the club enforces a two-item minimum purchase policy, contributing to a well-serviced ambiance where waitstaff attend to patrons’ refreshments seamlessly. This combination of quality performances, attentive service, and a welcoming environment makes Laugh Factory a standout destination for friends to meet, enjoy great humor, and create lasting memories.
Here's what people think of Laugh Factory
As of recent, Laugh Factory holds a 4.3-star rating based on 2817 reviews.
Visitors consistently praise Laugh Factory for its high-quality comedians and engaging performances, often citing it as one of the best comedy clubs experienced. Positive reviews highlight the caliber of talent on stage, the intimate and well-laid-out room, and the professionalism of the waitstaff, which collectively create an enjoyable night out. Many appreciate the option of 'first entry' tickets allowing early seat choice at popular shows, and some note the flexibility to stay for additional performances with minimum purchase, enhancing the overall value and experience. However, some negative feedback centers on service interruptions during acts, with reports of waitstaff taking orders during performances, which detracts from audience attention and enjoyment of punchlines. A few patrons also mention that the two-item minimum purchase can be costly for some guests. Despite these critiques, the club remains highly regarded for its vibrant atmosphere and quality comedy, with constructive feedback largely aimed at improving service timing to avoid disrupting the shows. Overall, the reviews affirm Laugh Factory's reputation as a go-to comedy venue, balancing outstanding entertainment with a lively social environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kate Irvine, Realtor
Perfect size theater/venue for a comedy show. The comedians weren’t necessarily my style, but still very funny and an enjoyable evening. The staff was very nice and attentive with quick drink service. They seem to really have the system down for rotating everyone in and out for 3 different shows! Overall, I “liked” the evening but didn’t “love” it, so I will likely try something different on the next visit.
Nicole Adams
I really enjoy the laugh factory. The drinks were great and reasonably price. We saw about six comedians Friday night and all were extremely funny. The staff was awesome. I will be back, very soon.
Tasia Conway (FEMALETWEETY)
Took my boyfriend here for his birthday since he loves watching comedy videos on YouTube and let me tell you… the Chicago location did not disappoint! (We got a discount on tickets through Chicago Bucketlisters as well so that was nice!) We got there about 15 mins before start time and got some pretty good seats! You do have to buy at least 2 drinks (there’s a 2 drink minimum per person) and we went with the drink of the night which was an iced tea vodka lemonade which was delicious! We also ordered some buffalo wings which was a nice snack to have for the night! The show was great (saw about 5 comedians in 1.5 hours, bonus points that all the openers were women!) Laughed at least twice during each comedian’s set so I will definitely be back in the future!
Amber Simpson
This was my first ever comedy show. My boyfriend and I decided last minute to visit Chicago and get tickets. We couldn’t stop laughing our whole night! We saw around six comedians, all with their own style and all super funny! Great environment and great crowd. Drinks are a little pricey yet, they were good, and the waiting staff were brilliant and attentive. Great date night!
Jonathan Cano-Pineda
This place offers a great atmosphere, funny acts, and the drinks were a great addition too. My partner and I arrived early and were seated near the stage. All the acts were funny. Crowd participation was a nice touch and added some laughs. Interviews from each comedian after their set. The final performer Kevin was hilarious. The place saved the best for last. The men's restroom was very clean and the wait staff was so attentive. Keep up the good work.
How to reach Laugh Factory
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Why Laugh Factory may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Laugh Factory with your friends?
Gathering friends for an unforgettable night out can be a challenge, but Laugh Factory offers a vibrant and engaging atmosphere that makes it an ideal destination for group meetups. This comedy club, rated 4.3 out of 5 from over 2,800 reviews, has earned a reputation as a top-tier venue where laughter and good times are guaranteed. The combination of world-class comedians, a welcoming setting, and attentive service creates the perfect environment for shared enjoyment. When you rally your friends at Laugh Factory, you’re not just going out; you’re immersing yourselves in a communal experience fueled by humor and connection. Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion, host a casual night out, or simply enjoy a break from everyday stresses, Laugh Factory's energy transforms an ordinary evening into something joyful and memorable. The venue’s layout ensures everyone has a great view and the sound quality allows you to catch every punchline, heightening the collective fun. In sum, Laugh Factory is a place where friendship and humor come together seamlessly, promising a night full of laughter that bonds your group closer than ever.
What activities can you enjoy at Laugh Factory, and why is it great for group meetups?
At Laugh Factory, the primary activity is, of course, enjoying live stand-up comedy featuring a diverse lineup of professional comedians. Shows vary night-to-night, bringing in both renowned headliners and emerging talents, so you never know what fresh material or new perspectives will be delivered. This variety ensures there is something for every comedic taste in your group, from witty observational humor to more edgy performances. Because the club maintains a cozy and intimate setting, the interaction between comedians and audiences is natural and engaging, adding a layer of excitement to each show. Groups can easily share in the collective experience of watching a live performance, laughing together and creating inside jokes that last long after the show ends.
Moreover, Laugh Factory encourages socializing before and after performances. Its well-organized space includes comfortable seating areas perfect for catching up over drinks. While the club has a two-item minimum per person policy (this can include alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages), it adds to the lively ambiance and helps keep waitstaff attentive. The menu offers a selection of drinks and light snacks, suitable for sharing with friends. This makes it convenient to enjoy refreshments without having to leave the venue, which is excellent for maintaining the group's momentum throughout the evening. In particular, the layout and service accommodate groups well, ensuring your party can settle in together, order collectively, and focus on the entertainment without logistical hassles.
How is the Laugh Factory's environment suited for groups in terms of seating and service?
Laugh Factory is renowned for its thoughtful seating arrangement that caters well to groups. The venue is designed so there are no “bad seats,” ensuring everyone in your party can have an unobstructed view of the stage. This inclusivity enhances the overall experience because no one feels left out of the fun. Whether your group is small or somewhat larger, the seating arrangements enable close proximity to the performers, intensifying the connection between the comedians and the audience. For those who prefer to arrive early, purchasing “first entry” tickets offers the advantage of choosing the best seats available, adding an element of strategic planning to your group outing.
Service at Laugh Factory is generally praised for its efficiency and friendliness, helping to create a relaxed environment for your meetup. Waitstaff circulate to take orders between comedy sets, although some reviews suggest it would be better if drink orders were handled only during breaks to avoid interruptions during performances. Despite that, the service supports the social aspect of the experience, offering timely refreshments and accommodating group needs. Additionally, the club’s policy of a minimum two-item purchase per guest ensures that the staff remains motivated to provide attentive service, further enhancing the ambiance. Altogether, these factors contribute to making Laugh Factory a place where groups feel welcomed and well cared for throughout the evening.
Why is Laugh Factory an excellent venue for celebrating special occasions with friends or family?
Laugh Factory’s lively atmosphere and unique entertainment make it a standout choice for celebrating birthdays, reunions, or any special gatherings. The excitement of live comedy naturally elevates the festive mood of such occasions. Friends and family can bond over shared laughter, creating memories that are far richer than those at a conventional restaurant or bar. The club's professional comedians often tailor their performances to the energy of the crowd, making personalized shout-outs or humorous nods that make the event feel even more special.
In addition, the venue’s flexible seating and friendly staff are prepared to accommodate groups wishing to mark their celebrations in style. Whether you want to reserve seats for a large party or coordinate arrival times to maximize your group’s experience, Laugh Factory staff can assist in planning. The option to enjoy cocktails and snacks amidst the show helps maintain a celebratory vibe that lasts all night. Plus, being a comedy club, the focus on entertainment means the energy never dips, unlike other social venues where conversations can lull. Choosing Laugh Factory for your next special night out guarantees an atmosphere where fun and joy are the priorities, making your event truly unforgettable.
What makes Laugh Factory stand out compared to other comedy venues in the area?
Laugh Factory distinguishes itself through its consistent delivery of top-quality comedy and a well-reviewed environment that prioritizes the guest experience. While there are numerous comedy clubs, feedback from patrons underscores Laugh Factory's balance of talented performers, intimate space, and attentive service. The club showcases a mix of well-known comedians and fresh voices, providing diverse humor options while maintaining high entertainment standards. Reviews highlight that the venue is clean, organized, and well-equipped for a great night out, ensuring that logistical details such as seating, acoustics, and service do not detract from the entertainment.
Unlike some competitors where seating may be less comfortable or drinks less accessible, Laugh Factory offers a good selection of beverages and a straightforward two-item minimum policy, helping to sustain the service quality throughout the evening. This policy is designed to keep the environment lively and ensure all guests receive attentive service, enhancing the overall experience. Additionally, the venue’s locations (including Hollywood, Long Beach, Chicago, and others) mean it’s accessible to many audiences while maintaining a consistent quality across the board. All these elements combine to make Laugh Factory a trusted and popular choice for anyone looking to enjoy a laugh-filled evening with friends or family.
How do you get the best experience at Laugh Factory when attending with a group?
To maximize enjoyment for your group at Laugh Factory, a bit of planning goes a long way. First, consider purchasing tickets early to secure “first entry” access if available; this allows your group to grab the best seats and settle in comfortably before the show begins. Arriving early also helps avoid any last-minute confusion at the entrance and gives your party time to order drinks and snacks before the comedian starts. Since there is a two-item minimum purchase per guest, plan accordingly so everyone can enjoy refreshments, which also supports attentive service throughout the event.
During the show, it’s best to enjoy the comedy uninterrupted by ordering drinks during breaks rather than during performances, which keeps the focus on the humor and prevents distraction. Encourage everyone in your group to participate in the laughter and energy because a lively audience contributes to the overall atmosphere and can even positively influence the performance. Finally, take advantage of the communal setting to mingle during intermissions and after the show, extending the social experience beyond the stand-up performances. With these strategies, your group is guaranteed a memorable evening packed with laughter, great company, and seamless service at Laugh Factory.