Verdict
Destinations
Experience · Chicago

The Second City

The legendary improv theatre that launched Belushi, Murray, Fey, and Colbert.

Independent — no pay-to-rank Graded for who you are Verified 2026-06-17How we grade →
The verdict

Who it's worth it for

Great for
  • Couples
  • Solo travellers
  • History & culture buffs
  • Night owls
Depends
  • Travellers on a budget
  • If you've only got a day
Not for
  • Families with kids

Worth it for couples, solo travellers and history & culture buffs; not for families with kids.

Why we say this

Insider secrets & local vibes

Catching a revue at the birthplace of modern improv is a real bucket-list night, and the talent on a random weeknight is often startlingly good — but match the room to your taste: Mainstage for the polished flagship revue, the e.t.c. stage for an edgier experimental one, the free post-show improv sets for raw unscripted work.
Not independently verified — estimated
It's live, so any given show is luck of the draw, and the loose late-night improv sets in particular are far more variable than the scripted-and-rehearsed Mainstage revue.
Not independently verified — estimated
What it feels like

Reading the room, traveller by traveller

  • As a couple

    A fun, lively date night out with drinks and laughs.

  • With friends

    A perfect group night, especially for first-time visitors who love comedy.

  • Solo

    Easy to enjoy alone, and the shared laughter makes it feel social.

Good to know

Before you go

Cost
$30–55
Time
2–2.5 hours
Last verified
2026-06-17
Best time
Evenings; check the lineup, as the mainstage revues are the strongest bet.
Getting there
Old Town on Wells Street; Brown/Purple Line Sedgwick stop is a short walk.
Booking
Reserve tickets ahead, especially for weekend shows.
Accessibility
Accessible seating available; mention needs when booking.
Alternatives

If it's not your thing, try

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Independent — no pay-to-rank Graded for who you are Verified 2026-06-17How we grade →