The Second City
The legendary improv theatre that launched Belushi, Murray, Fey, and Colbert.
The call
Worth it if you are traveling as a couple and you are traveling solo.
Why
- 01
A sketch revue at the birthplace of modern improv is a genuine bucket-list comedy night — but which room you book changes the experience.
Our read - 02
The Mainstage revue is the polished, scripted-and-improvised flagship and the safest bet; the smaller e.t.c.
Our read
Is it a fit?
Go if
You are traveling as a couple
As a couple, The Second City works.
You are traveling solo
Solo, The Second City works.
History and culture matter to you
For history & culture, The Second City delivers.
The night matters
For nightlife, The Second City delivers.
Think twice if
You are traveling with kids
With kids, give The Second City a miss.
You are watching the budget
On a budget, weigh it — The Second City isn't cheap for what it is.
You only have one day
The Second City is a real time commitment — fit it in only if it's a priority.
You want context, not just the photograph
For depth & learning, The Second City is hit or miss.
Plan it well
- Cost
- $30–55
- Timing
- Evenings; check the lineup, as the mainstage revues are the strongest bet.
- Booking
- Reserve tickets ahead, especially for weekend shows.
- Allow
- 2–2.5 hours
- Accessibility
- Accessible seating available; mention needs when booking.
- Getting there
- Old Town on Wells Street; Brown/Purple Line Sedgwick stop is a short walk.
Consider instead
Sources and method (2)
- Opened December 16, 1959; alumni include John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, Bill Murray, Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert en.wikipedia.org ↗
- Since SNL began, ~50 of its cast/writers came from the Old Town club axios.com ↗