When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
The Second City

Why The Second City is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Second City, established in 1959 in Chicago, stands as one of the most iconic and influential comedy theaters worldwide, known especially for its unique Chicago-style sketch and improv comedy. This historic venue has been a launching pad for numerous comedy legends including Tina Fey, Steve Carell, John Candy, and Chris Farley. With its three distinct stages—the Mainstage Theater, the e.t.c. Theater, and the UP Comedy Club—The Second City offers an ever-changing lineup of shows ranging from satirical revues and themed improv performances to stand-up comedy. The club's reliance on audience participation creates a lively, interactive experience that distinguishes it from other comedy venues, making it a fantastic place to gather with friends for an evening of laughter and entertainment. The venue encourages guests to arrive early to enjoy dinner and experience Chicago’s vibrant Old Town neighborhood before the show. Moreover, The Second City offers classes in comedy and improv, expanding its appeal beyond audiences to aspiring performers. Its central location and diverse programming make it a beloved social hub where camaraderie and comedy blend seamlessly, offering a fresh and dynamic night out for locals and visitors alike.
Here's what people think of The Second City
As of recent, The Second City holds a 4.6-star rating based on 3491 reviews.
The Second City enjoys a high overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 from over 3,400 reviews, reflecting widespread appreciation from audiences. Many positive reviews highlight the theater's outstanding talent pool and the consistently fresh, witty, and engaging content of its performances. Patrons often praise the unpredictability and energy of the improv shows, noting that audience interaction makes each performance unique and memorable. Reviewers also commend the historic charm of the venue, its welcoming atmosphere, and the professionalism and creativity of the cast. Conversely, some critical feedback points to occasional variability in show quality, with a few visitors experiencing less engaging performances or feeling that certain improv segments required more polish. Other negatives include occasional issues with seating preferences and the need to book early to secure the best seats. Despite these occasional critiques, the vast majority of reviews convey enthusiasm and recommend The Second City as an essential cultural experience in Chicago. Overall, the reviews portray The Second City as not only a premier comedy destination but also a vibrant, essential part of Chicago’s entertainment scene that consistently delivers laughter and joy.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Pooja Naik
What an amazing activity to do in Chicago! And date night spot! I’ve been coming for years but returned after a hiatus and now I’ll be a regular again. This too shall slap was funny, fun and eye opening all at once. The actors are prolific! Food and drinks were fun to have throughout the show too. Highly recommend! @chicagopescetarian
M
First time to Chicago and so of course had to visit The Second City and experience the original improv. The crowd, the energy, the entertainment and the f&b were excellent! Definitely had a great time and will definitely visit again! Lots of love from 🇨🇦
Tina McFadzean
Omg this was amazing. The place is huge with so much going on. There are several shows each night, classes, a little kiosk for snacks and drinks and merch. We saw the grad show and it was really fun and funny. So much history- worth a visit.
Sandi Purinton
A Must-See Chicago Experience! If you're visiting Chicago, seeing a show at The Second City is a must. The intimate setting makes you feel like part of comedy history—greats like Bill Murray, Steve Carell, Tina Fey, and Amy Poehler all got their start here. We saw the 113th Mainstage Revue and laughed all night. The cast was fantastic, and the whole vibe was fun and welcoming. Staff were kind and attentive. The seats are a little cramped (get ready to cozy up to your neighbor), but it’s worth it for such a marvelous, iconic experience.
Chuck Paone
The greatest improve talent ever has graced the stages of second city. Past and future Saturday Night Live, SCTV, National Lampoon to sitcoms like The Office, The Middle and Seinfeld and countless comedy movies all have roots to Second City. Enjoy the current performers before they become stars.
How to reach The Second City
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Why The Second City may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Second City with your friends?
When planning a meetup with friends or family, choosing a location that combines entertainment, social engagement, and a shared sense of joy is key. The Second City, with its outstanding reputation and 4.6-star rating from nearly 3,500 reviews, is an ideal destination for such occasions. This legendary Chicago-based comedy venue has been an incubator for comedic talents and improv legends for over six decades, making it a cultural institution where laughter and spontaneity are celebrated. The blend of sharp, well-structured sketches and dynamic improv performances creates an atmosphere that is both exhilarating and inclusive. Sharing laughs together strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories. Beyond just the laughs, the venue offers a comfortable, welcoming environment with attentive service, good food and drinks, and intimate seating, all of which enhance the group experience. Whether you are reuniting with old friends, celebrating a special event, or just looking for a night out where everyone can relax and enjoy quality comedy, The Second City delivers on all fronts, making it a natural rallying point for any group.
What activities can groups enjoy at The Second City?
The primary draw at The Second City is its renowned live comedy performances, particularly sketch comedy and improvisation. Visitors can experience a variety of shows, often mixing preplanned sketches with spontaneous improv, keeping each night fresh and uniquely interactive. The shows frequently incorporate audience participation, inviting groups to become part of the creative process, which heightens the shared enjoyment and engagement. Beyond mainstage performances, The Second City also offers shows at different venues within its complex, such as the e.t.c. stage, each with its own flavor and style of comedy. These productions blend scripted humor with elements that reflect current events, local culture, and personal audience stories, providing plenty of material to laugh about together. In some shows, performers even create improvised songs based on audience suggestions, adding a musical flair to the night. The venue itself hosts workshops and classes on improv and comedy, perfect for friends who want to dive deeper and share a creative, fun learning experience side-by-side. This range of activities caters perfectly to groups looking for both passive entertainment and interactive fun.
Why is The Second City perfect for a group meetup?
The Second City excels as a group meetup spot because it offers more than just a show — it’s a social experience. The intimate theater setting means smaller groups or large parties can enjoy a shared view and easy conversation before, during intermissions, and after shows. Seating is comfortable, and the venue often provides tables where friends can gather to eat and drink together, enhancing the communal atmosphere. The menu features crowd-pleasing casual fare like burgers and fries, paired with a solid craft beer and cocktail selection, allowing groups to enjoy refreshments without detracting from the main comedy event. The attentive and friendly service adds to the ease of hosting groups, as everyone feels cared for throughout the evening. The diversity of shows, ranging from family-friendly to more adult-themed comedy, allows groups to pick the right tone for their occasion. Moreover, the venue’s legacy and cultural cachet add a sense of occasion and excitement that makes any meetup feel special. Whether it’s a night out with friends for some hearty laughter or a family event with memorable storytelling, The Second City’s environment and entertainment offerings come together perfectly to make group gatherings both fun and meaningful.
What makes the comedy experience at The Second City unique?
The Second City’s comedic style is legendary for combining sharp wit, clever writing, and spontaneous improvisation. Unlike many comedy clubs where stand-up dominates, here the focus on sketch comedy and improv creates an ensemble experience. Each performance is a seamless mix of humor that touches on a broad range of topics including politics, social issues, and everyday absurdities, always with a playful and often irreverent tone. The actors' ability to involve the audience, adapt to real-time suggestions, and riff off one another creates a dynamic show that feels fresh and vibrant every night. Many famous comedians and Saturday Night Live alumni have roots here, contributing to the venue’s high calibre of talent and professionalism. Shows often feature a variety of sketch lengths from quick spontaneous bits to longer narrative pieces, giving the audience a varied comedic rhythm. This live, interactive component makes it perfect for groups because the shared laughter and surprises build a collective energy that bonds spectators. It’s the kind of experience that’s hard to replicate in other entertainment formats, setting The Second City apart as a must-visit comedy venue.
How accessible and accommodating is The Second City for groups?
The Second City prioritizes guest comfort and accessibility which is crucial when hosting groups. The theater spaces, although historically intimate, have been thoughtfully updated and temporarily relocated during renovations to ensure the audience remains comfortable, with theater seating and small tables promoting interaction. The venue’s location within Chicago’s vibrant entertainment district makes it easy to combine visits with other group activities like dining or nightlife. The staff is known for quick, attentive service that caters well to group needs, from seating arrangements to food and drink orders. The food offerings strike a balance between satisfying casual cravings and accommodating varied tastes, ideal for groups with diverse preferences. The venue also allows for advance reservations and group discounts at times, making planning easier. Furthermore, The Second City’s commitment to diversity in its performers and show content helps ensure an inclusive environment where everyone can feel welcome and appreciated. Whether you’re bringing a handful of friends or a larger party, the venue’s attention to detail in hospitality adds to the ease and enjoyment of hosting your meetup there.
What kind of atmosphere and vibe can groups expect at The Second City?
The atmosphere at The Second City is lively, energetic, and welcoming, perfect for socializing and enjoying entertainment as a group. There is a palpable sense of excitement as the audience anticipates innovative comedy that can be both thought-provoking and delightfully silly. The blend of scripted and improvised content keeps the mood vibrant, while performers often break the fourth wall, inviting audience reactions and participation. This interaction fosters a communal experience, amplifying laughter and creating memorable moments to share long after the show ends. The setting is casual yet polished, striking a balance that encourages relaxation without sacrificing the sophistication of a well-crafted performance. Whether you and your friends are comedy veterans or novices, the venue’s inclusivity and enthusiastic vibe make everyone feel at ease. The intermissions provide great opportunities to chat about jokes, grab a drink, and bond over the shared cultural experience. This warm, convivial atmosphere is key to making any meetup at The Second City a highlight of social life.
Why is The Second City a culturally iconic venue for meetups?
The Second City holds a unique place in comedy and cultural history, making it an inspiring venue choice for groups. Since its establishment in the late 1950s, it has become synonymous with Chicago’s comedy scene and has launched numerous careers of prominent comedians worldwide. This heritage adds a layer of significance and excitement to any visit. Attending a show here means being part of a living tradition that champions creativity, satire, and community. The venue’s reputation attracts a diverse and passionate audience who appreciate comedy as both art and entertainment. This sense of belonging to a storied institution enhances the quality and ambiance of group meetups, turning an ordinary night out into a culturally enriching experience. Furthermore, the shows’ topical themes often spark conversation and reflection, giving group members something meaningful to discuss post-performance. Choosing The Second City means choosing a meetup experience that’s both fun and culturally resonant.
What are some tips to maximize your group experience at The Second City?
To get the most out of a group outing at The Second City, planning ahead is key. Arriving early allows for convenient seating together and time to enjoy the bar and dining area before the show starts. Selecting a show that matches your group’s interests—whether it’s the mainstage revue or a progressive experimental e.t.c. show—will ensure everyone’s engaged and entertained. Consider ordering group platters or sharing appetizers to foster interaction over food and drink. Engaging with the improv by participating when invited adds to the fun and creates unique memories. Also, make use of the friendly staff who can help accommodate special needs or preferences to keep the evening smooth. Finally, embracing the unpredictable nature of live comedy means going with the flow and enjoying the spontaneous moments that will no doubt become favorite stories you recount after the night ends. These small strategies can greatly enhance how your group bonds and enjoys this iconic comedy venue.
This detailed overview highlights why The Second City is an outstanding choice for hosting a meetup, providing ample entertainment, interaction, service, and atmosphere to ensure every group enjoys a memorable, laugh-filled experience.