When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
The Lincoln Lodge
Why The Lincoln Lodge is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Lincoln Lodge stands out as Chicago's premier independent comedy club, offering a vibrant and welcoming space to enjoy top-tier comedy performances and training. Known as the nation’s longest running independent comedy showcase, this non-profit club features shows six nights a week, with no drink minimum, ensuring a focus on maximum laughs and genuine comedic experiences. The flagship show runs every Friday and Saturday night, showcasing a mix of national and international headliners alongside local legends and Lincoln Lodge alumni, providing diverse and high-quality entertainment. Beyond live shows, The Lincoln Lodge operates a comprehensive Training Center that offers an array of classes and workshops for aspiring comedians, including stand-up, writing, hosting, and producing. Notably, classes such as Fem Com and Stand-Up Seminary are designed to build confidence and skills among women, non-binary performers, and beginners, fostering a supportive comedy community. The venue also serves as a flexible rental space with three theaters, two classrooms, and a multimedia-equipped podcast studio available at affordable rates for artists and organizations. This makes The Lincoln Lodge not only a fantastic spot to meet friends and enjoy comedy but also a hub for artistic development and community engagement in Chicago's comedy scene.
Here's what people think of The Lincoln Lodge
As of recent, The Lincoln Lodge holds a 4.8-star rating based on 253 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise The Lincoln Lodge for its vibrant atmosphere, quality comedy shows, and supportive community environment. Many reviewers highlight the club’s commitment to fostering local talent and providing varied, engaging performances that appeal broadly. The positive feedback often focuses on the inclusive and welcoming vibe, the professionalism of the performers, and the club’s unique non-profit model that prioritizes art over commercial constraints. Customers appreciate the absence of a drink minimum, allowing for a relaxed and accessible experience. On the practical side, users commend the range of training programs and the opportunities they provide for both beginners and experienced comedians to hone their craft in a nurturing environment. However, some negative feedback stems from inconvenience related to venue amenities and customer service, particularly in relation to event and rental coordination, as is sometimes the case with independently run non-profit venues. A small number of reviewers mention occasional logistical challenges with room reservations and specific customer service interactions. Overall, the reviews affirm The Lincoln Lodge as a beloved institution within Chicago’s comedy scene, valued both as an entertainment venue and as a creative incubator. The balance of praise for its artistic offerings and community focus outweighs the relatively minor operational criticisms, underscoring its standing as a must-visit comedy destination.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
A Red Dragon
Filled with comfy smaller chambers hosting up and coming comics, perfect for nestling in on a free night. Drink selection is great, shout out to Alvin Kuai
Amy Do
I love the lincoln lodge. They're the only nonprofit comedy theater in the city, and I've been going there for years. SUCH exciting programming is happening here every night- and you can't beat the cost of the drinks! I have so much fun every time I'm here. All the bar staff are so nice. I just love this place.
Kavin Fleming
YES! I love being here, all the laughs and atmosphere is the best place to relax and enjoy life. I KEEP COMING BACK! The Host Laura H. Is the best funny as hell also Kelly M. and Shelley W. Works together to have the people KEEP COMING BACK! love you guys 💖. Keep doing what you do. I got one for you guys: "Knock Knock" "Who's there?" "I am" "I am who?" " I'm Sober" 🫣
Denisse Mendoza Hernandez
I won tickets for the “Blackout Diaries” and I came with other 3 friends, we were laughing A LOT, the show was great and not because it was free haha I would pay to come back again because it was really cool. Also the attention from the staff and the bar was very good. 100% recommended! 👏
Sara Bernstein
We were visiting Chicago and looking for something fun to do, a little less touristy and actually saw this on Reddit as a must see. We saw the Comedy Showcase. The prices were great and we enjoyed having a variety of comics to listen to. The smaller venue was fun with not a bad seat in the house! We will definitely do it again!
How to reach The Lincoln Lodge
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Website: None
Why The Lincoln Lodge may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Lincoln Lodge with your friends? The Lincoln Lodge offers an unbeatable mix of atmosphere, entertainment, and inclusivity, making it an ideal spot to gather and enjoy time together. Located in Chicago, this venue is renowned for its vibrant comedy scene and charming, intimate spaces that feel welcoming to groups of all sizes. The essence of laughter and great company is heightened here, with no drink minimums—meaning you can focus on the fun without pressure. The Lodge’s reputation as the nation’s longest-running independent comedy showcase, combined with a solid 4.8 rating from over 250 reviews, ensures that you and your friends will experience top-notch performances every time. Beyond the comedy, the venue doubles as a creative hub offering classrooms, podcast studios, and versatile rental spaces, making it uniquely suited for gatherings that want to combine mingling with creativity or learning. Whether for a casual night out or a special celebration, The Lincoln Lodge invites you to share laughter, make memories, and connect deeply with friends in an atmosphere charged with genuine community spirit.
What activities can you enjoy at The Lincoln Lodge?
The Lincoln Lodge is much more than a comedy club; it is a multi-faceted venue bursting with activities that cater to a wide range of interests. Primarily, the venue showcases stand-up comedy six nights a week, featuring a blend of national headliners, local legends, and rising stars alike. This consistent lineup guarantees infectious laughter and an engaging night where every performance feels fresh and personalized. Besides watching laughter unfold on stage, guests can get involved in creative workshops and classes offered at the Lincoln Lodge Training Center. These classes include beginner-friendly courses like Fem Com and Stand-up Seminary that encourage new performers, especially women and non-binary individuals, to find their comedic voice. For groups seeking to try something new together, attending a comedy workshop can be a fun and bonding experience. Plus, for those who are a bit more advanced in comedy, there’s even an advanced course called The Punch Up, perfect for honing performance skills. These varied offerings make The Lincoln Lodge perfect for friends who want to combine entertainment with personal growth or simply have an interactive evening.
What makes The Lincoln Lodge perfect for group meetups?
The Lincoln Lodge’s diverse spaces are thoughtfully designed to accommodate groups big and small, making it a versatile venue for group meetups. The venue houses three theaters, each with intimate seating arrangements that ensure everyone is close to the laughter and action. The Blue Theatre seats up to 45 guests, creating a cozy ambiance ideal for smaller groups wanting an immersive experience. Coupled with professional stage lighting, a PA system, and a 55-inch smart TV, it’s a venue where private events like birthday parties and fundraisers come to life with personality. The Brown Theatre comfortably seats 50 guests and offers an equally immersive and personal environment. In addition to performance spaces, there are two conference rooms available for rent, which provide extra flexibility for those who want to mingle, workshop, or relax before or after shows. The Lodge’s no outside alcohol policy coupled with its onsite lobby bar ensures a seamless, fully catered social experience. With wheelchair accessibility and complimentary parking, the venue is accommodating for guests of all needs, making it easy and convenient for groups to gather.
How does the venue support artists and community engagement?
The Lincoln Lodge operates under Tight Five Productions, a non-profit organization that is devoted to supporting local comedy artists and promoting creative expression in the Chicago community. This means when you gather at The Lincoln Lodge, you’re not just attending a show; you’re supporting a vibrant cultural ecosystem invested in nurturing talent. The organization offers substantial discounts for theater and classroom rentals to artists and community groups, ensuring affordability and accessibility. Through this model, performers ranging from beginners to seasoned comedians get an opportunity to refine their craft and share their voices. The venue’s commitment extends beyond performances to include podcast studio rentals, enabling content creators to innovate and collaborate in a professional setting. This community-first approach resonates with patrons who seek a space that’s not only entertaining but socially consequential, making group visits feel meaningful and connected to Chicago’s broader creative scene.
What special events and private bookings does The Lincoln Lodge offer?
When it comes to private events, The Lincoln Lodge truly shines as a flexible, accommodating venue. It welcomes a broad spectrum of occasions—from birthday parties and corporate outings to fundraisers and even uniquely themed “fun-erals.” The personalized attention that comes with booking spaces like the Blue Theatre or the Brown Theatre allows hosts to tailor events precisely to their vision, whether it’s a high-energy performance night or a low-key gathering. These spaces come fully equipped with professional AV capabilities, stage lighting, and smart TVs, so presentations, screenings, or collaborative sessions are smooth and impactful. This makes The Lincoln Lodge ideal for groups looking for more than just a standard venue—they get a fully immersive environment that enhances the experience. The adjoining conference rooms serve as excellent breakout spaces or private lounges, adding to the venue’s adaptability. Thanks to its mix of amenities such as wheelchair access and complimentary parking, event planning is straightforward and stress-free, ensuring your group enjoys the occasion fully.
Why is The Lincoln Lodge’s comedy experience unique?
The comedy experience at The Lincoln Lodge stands apart because of its strong ethos of inclusivity, artistic freedom, and community-oriented entertainment. Unlike many clubs that impose drink minimums, The Lincoln Lodge prides itself on no such requirements, creating a relaxed environment where the focus is purely on the comedy and company. Their flagship show features a carefully curated line-up that balances fresh talent with seasoned comedians, maintaining an electrifying vibe every performance night. The venue fosters an indie comedy spirit that encourages experimentation and authentic storytelling, keeping audiences engaged and entertained. Moreover, the incorporation of variety acts and segments like “Man on the Street” adds layers of humor and interaction that enrich the overall performance. This dedication to innovative and accessible comedy has earned The Lincoln Lodge its stellar reputation and loyal audience base, making it a standout destination for groups seeking an enriching night out.
How does the venue’s location and accessibility enhance the group experience?
Situated on North Lincoln Avenue in Chicago’s vibrant neighborhood, The Lincoln Lodge enjoys a prime location that is both accessible and culturally rich. Complimentary parking makes arrival easy for groups traveling by car, while public transportation options nearby allow for stress-free commutes. The venue thoughtfully includes wheelchair access, ensuring that no guest feels excluded from the fun. This attention to accessibility means groups with varying needs can comfortably attend together. The surrounding area offers plenty of dining and entertainment choices, letting groups extend their outing before or after their visit to The Lincoln Lodge. Whether locals or visitors, attendees benefit from a well-connected neighborhood with a lively atmosphere, contributing to a seamless and enjoyable group meetup from start to finish.
What dining and social options are available at The Lincoln Lodge?
While the primary draw is comedic performance and creative arts, The Lincoln Lodge also enhances group outings through its onsite bar and lounge areas. The lobby bar offers a casual spot for pre-show or post-show socializing, grabbing drinks, and chatting, which seamlessly supports group dynamics. Since the venue prohibits outside alcohol, the onsite bar ensures guests have convenient access to a variety of beverages, keeping the experience smooth and legal. The venue does not operate a full restaurant but its central location provides easy access to a diverse range of Chicago eateries within walking or short driving distance. This combination of onsite amenities and nearby dining options lets groups craft their perfect night out—whether it’s a casual comedy evening with drinks or a full dining and entertainment celebration. This flexibility is especially attractive to friends and families wanting to tailor their get-together to their tastes.
What do patrons say about their experience at The Lincoln Lodge?
Reviews consistently praise The Lincoln Lodge for its welcoming atmosphere, quality performances, and excellent value. Patrons appreciate the club’s intimate setting, which fosters a closer connection between audience and performers than is typical in larger venues. Frequent mention is made of the friendly, enthusiastic staff who enhance the visit by making guests feel comfortable and cared for. The diversity and freshness of acts featured each week keep repeat visitors coming back, ensuring entertainment that never feels stale. Many reviewers highlight how the venue’s non-profit status and community focus create a sense of authenticity and meaningful engagement. With a high rating of 4.8 from over 250 reviews, the overall impression is of a must-visit spot for groups wanting laughter, culture, and connection all in one place. These endorsements from real guests inspire confidence that a meetup here will be memorable and enjoyable.
How to book and prepare for your group event at The Lincoln Lodge?
Booking a group event at The Lincoln Lodge is streamlined and friendly thanks to their direct contact channels. Interested parties can inquire about space availability, pricing, and special accommodations by emailing thelincolnlodge@gmail.com, making initial communication easy and personalized. Early booking is recommended, especially for weekends or special event nights, to secure preferred theaters or classrooms. The team is experienced and accommodating, helping plan setups that fit your group’s needs—whether you desire a closed-door performance, a private workshop, or a hybrid event. For groups planning to enjoy shows, purchasing tickets in advance also ensures smooth entry. Since the venue does not require a drink minimum but offers a bar on-site, you can budget accordingly without surprise costs. Accessibility requirements and other specific requests can be communicated ahead of time to guarantee a comfortable experience for all attendees. Preparing in this way sets the stage for an organized and relaxed gathering filled with laughter and joy.
In summary, The Lincoln Lodge stands out as an exceptional choice for group meetups because it combines world-class comedy, versatile event spaces, supportive community engagement, and thoughtful amenities. Whether you're rallying friends for a night of laughs, hosting a workshop, or celebrating a special occasion, this Chicago gem delivers a unique, warm, and creatively fertile environment that makes every gathering meaningful and memorable. With its stellar reviews and rich history, The Lincoln Lodge invites groups to come together, share laughter, and create moments that last.