Austin, Texas is experiencing a comedy boom, drawing comedians and comedy lovers from across the world. With its rich history, great nightlife, and iconic festivals, Austin has solidified its place as one of the top destinations in the country for stand-up comedy. Here’s a look at the evolution of comedy in Austin, tips for comedy tourists, and why you should include a City Brew Tour in your Austin itinerary.
History of Austin Comedy
Larry D. Moore, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons.
Austin’s comedy scene began to gain traction in the 1980s with the rise of notable comedy venues like the Velveeta Room and the Laff Stop, which changed to the iconic Cap City Comedy Club in 1996. The club became a breeding ground for comedians like Bill Hicks and Ron White, who went on to achieve national fame. The decade also saw an increase in local open-mic nights, providing a platform for emerging talent. This period laid the groundwork for Austin’s reputation as a great city for comedy.
The 1990s and early 2000s saw a steady growth in the Austin comedy scene, with local comedians gaining prominence and more venues opening their doors to comedy. The advent of the Moontower Comedy Festival in 2012 marked a significant milestone, attracting top-tier talent and solidifying Austin’s reputation as a comedy hub. This festival brings together comedians from around the country, creating an annual event that celebrates both local and national acts.
In recent years, the relocation of high-profile comedians like Joe Rogan, Ron White, and Tony Hinchcliffe (among others) to Central Texas has brought even more attention to the city’s comedy scene. Rogan’s move, along with the opening of his Comedy Mothership have created a comedy boom that shows no signs of slowing down. But the Mothership is just one of many great venues for live comedy in Austin. Comedy lovers can catch shows any night of the week in venues across the city:
Austin Comedy Clubs and Venues
Image by Jeff St. Andre
Click to collapse/expand Austin Comedy Venues
| Venue | Description | Address |
|---|---|---|
Local Brewery Open Mics and Comedy Shows |
Several of our amazing local craft beer establishments have weekly or monthly comedy shows. | Various locations |
Paramount Theatre |
The Paramount and adjoining State Theatre are the artistic heartbeat of downtown Austin, hosting over 550 events every year, including the Moontower Comedy Festival and SXSW. | 713 Congress |
Cap City Comedy Club |
Legendary venue that, although they have recently relocated to the Domain, has hosted some of the biggest names in comedy. It’s a great spot to catch both local and national acts. | 11506 Century Oaks Terrace |
The Velveeta Room |
Iconic club on Sixth Street known for its intimate setting and raw comedy. | 521 E 6th |
Comedy Mothership |
Breathing new life into the historic Ritz on Dirty 6th, Joe Rogan’s Mothership has become a lightning rod for the local comedy scene. | 320 E 6th |
Sunset Strip Comedy Club |
One of Austin’s newest comedy venues, Sunset Strip hosts shows featuring some of Austin’s favorite stand-ups. | 214 E 6th |
The Creek and Cave |
Renowned comedy club and bar, originally based in Long Island City, New York, before relocating to Austin, Texas. | 611 E 7th |
Vulcan Gas Company |
6th Street standup venue hosting some of the biggest names in comedy. | 418 E 6th |
Coldtowne Theater |
ColdTowne Theater has been Austin’s main stage for alternative comedy since 2006. | 1700 E 2nd |
Hideout Theatre |
Premier location in Austin for improv. | 617 Congress |
Esther’s Follies |
Theatrical comedy troupe that normally performs five nights on the corner of Dirty 6th and Red River. | 525 E 6th St |
East Austin Comedy |
Up and coming venue in East Austin, hosting great local talent. | 2505 E 6th |
Black Rabbit Comedy ATX |
Intimate underground comedy venue on Brazos. | 411 Brazos |
Fallout Theater |
Underground club on Lavaca with live shows and classes. | 616 Lavaca |
Rozco’s Comedy Club |
Another up and coming venue in East Austin. | 1805 E 7th |
The Ballroom @ Spiderhouse |
Eclectic local performance space featuring live music, DJ’s, and comedy. | 2908 Fruth |
Speakeasy |
Sprawling 3-level nightclub with live music and weekly comedy shows. | 412 Congress |
Austin Comedy Festivals
Image by Daderot, Wikimedia Commons.
Click to collapse/expand Austin Comedy Festivals
| Festival | Description | Address |
|---|---|---|
Moontower Comedy Festival |
Held annually, this festival features a lineup of top comedians and is a highlight of the comedy calendar. | Various |
SXSW Comedy Festival |
Part of the larger SXSW festival, this event brings together a diverse range of comedians and offers unique performances and panels. | Various |
Austin Open Mics
Image by Pierre Rosa from Pixabay
Click to collapse/expand Austin Open Mics
| Open Mic Calendars | Description | Address |
|---|---|---|
Badslava |
Open mic events in Austin | Various |
Eventbrite |
Open mic events in Austin | Various |
Tips for Enjoying Austin’s Comedy Scene
Image By David French, Wikimedia Commons
Austin’s comedy scene is just as diverse as its craft beer scene, with something for every comedy enthusiast. From intimate open-mic nights at local breweries to grand performances at renowned comedy clubs and theaters, the city offers endless opportunities to enjoy top-notch humor. Whether you’re a seasoned comedy junkie or just looking to enjoy a night of laughs, Austin promises a memorable experience. If you’re planning a trip to Austin to experience its thriving comedy scene or if you are a local, here are some tips to make the most of your visit:
Click to collapse/expand Tips
| Tip | Context | Pro-Tip |
|---|---|---|
Plan Ahead |
Many comedy shows, especially those featuring well-known comedians, sell out quickly. Book your tickets in advance to ensure you get a spot. | If your dates are sold out, head over to your favorite club’s website and look for their standby policy. Many clubs offer same-day standby options that can get you into a show. |
Explore Different Venues |
Austin has a variety of comedy clubs, each offering a unique experience. Don’t limit yourself to one spot—explore multiple venues to get a feel for the diverse comedic talent in the city. | Try visiting both well-known clubs and smaller, more intimate venues to experience a range of comedic styles and performers. |
Check Out Local Talent |
While big names draw crowds, Austin’s local comedians are incredibly talented and often perform at smaller venues. Support local shows and open-mics around the city for a more intimate and authentic experience. | Look for open-mic nights and smaller shows for a chance to see rising stars and unique acts. |
Attend Festivals |
If your visit coincides with one of Austin’s comedy festivals, like the Moontower Comedy Festival or SXSW, make sure to attend some of the events. These festivals showcase a mix of established and up-and-coming comedians and artists. | Check the festival schedules and plan to attend multiple shows to get the most out of the experience. |
Arrive Early |
Many comedy venues offer general admission seating, so arriving early can help you get the best seats. | Arrive at least 30 minutes before the show starts to secure a good spot and enjoy any pre-show entertainment. |
Follow Comedy Clubs on Social Media |
Comedy clubs often announce last-minute shows, special guests, and ticket discounts on their social media pages. | Follow your favorite venues on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to stay updated on the latest happenings. |
Consider Weeknight Shows |
Weeknight shows are often less crowded and can offer a more relaxed and intimate experience. | If your schedule allows, try attending a show on a Tuesday or Wednesday night for a different vibe and potentially lower ticket prices. |
Be Prepared for Different Styles of Comedy |
Austin’s comedy scene features a wide range of comedic styles, from stand-up and improv to sketch comedy and experimental acts. | Keep an open mind and be ready to experience different types of humor. You might discover a new favorite style or performer. |
Include a City Brew Tour on Your Austin Itinerary
Image by City Brew Tours
No trip to Austin is complete without experiencing its renowned craft beer scene. A City Brew Tour is the perfect way to kick off your evening before catching a comedy show. Here’s why you should include it in your itinerary:
Click to collapse/expand Why Include a City Brew Tour in Your Trip
| Reason | Details | Fun Fact |
|---|---|---|
Explore Austin’s Top Breweries |
The tour offers VIP access to some of Austin’s best breweries, where you can taste a variety of local craft beers and learn about the brewing process. | Central Texas has over 100 local breweries and taprooms, making it one of the fastest-growing beer cities in the U.S. |
Convenient and Fun |
With air-conditioned transportation and a knowledgeable guide, you can relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about logistics. | Austin’s beer scene includes unique breweries that often feature live events, food trucks, and amazing beer. |
Pairing Beer and Comedy |
What could be better than sampling delicious craft beers before heading out for a night of laughter? It’s the perfect pairing for a memorable evening in Austin. | Our public tours pick up and drop-off within walking distance to some of the best local comedy venues. |
Experience Local Flavors |
Taste a wide range of local brews and discover new favorites among Austin’s local craft beer offerings. | Austin hosts the Texas Craft Brewers Festival, the largest beer event in Texas, celebrating the state’s best craft beers. |
Meet Fellow Beer Enthusiasts |
City Brew Tours attracts beer lovers from all over, providing a great opportunity to meet new people and share your passion for craft beer and comedy. | Austin’s beer community is known for its friendliness and welcoming atmosphere. |
Support Local Businesses |
By taking a City Brew Tour, you’re supporting local breweries and contributing to the growth of Austin’s craft beer scene. | Many Austin breweries are independently owned and pride themselves on sustainability and local sourcing. |
Daily Public Tours |
Check Availability |
City Brew Tours offers daily public tours that provide VIP access to some of the best breweries in Central Texas. Use code LAUGHATX at checkout for 10% off a public tour booking. |
Customized Private Tours |
Request a Proposal |
City Brew Tours offers customized private tours that can be tailored to your group’s size and preferences, making it perfect for special occasions or corporate events. |