Minnesota has a rich and diverse comedy culture, with Minneapolis and St. Paul serving as its heart. The state is known for its sharp wit, dry humor, and strong improv scene. Venues in Minneapolis host some of the best stand-up comedians, both local and national, in an intimate setting.
Minnesota is also home to a thriving improv scene, with theaters offering classes and performances. The state has produced notable comedians such as Louis Anderson, Maria Bamford, and Patton Oswalt, contributing to its reputation for producing talent with a unique comedic voice.
Minnesota’s comedy culture also includes festivals, like the Minnesota Comedy Festival, which celebrate both emerging and established talent. Overall, the state offers a welcoming environment for comedians to hone their craft, making it a key hub for comedy lovers in the Midwest.
Bloomington, Minnesota may be best known for the Mall of America, but it also nurtures a growing comedy scene that blends suburban charm with big laughs. Just a short drive from Minneapolis, Bloomington offers a convenient and welcoming stage for stand-up, improv, and sketch performers looking to connect with enthusiastic local audiences.
Comedy clubs, hotel lounges, and community venues regularly host shows featuring both seasoned comics and rising talent. The stand-up scene is steadily gaining momentum, supported by open mics and showcase nights where performers can test fresh material in a laid-back environment. Improv and sketch comedy are present too, often tied to regional groups that bring high-energy, interactive shows to intimate spaces.
The vibe is friendly, accessible, and community-driven, making it easy for newcomers to get involved and audiences to feel part of the experience. In Bloomington, comedy is on the rise—offering big laughs with a down-to-earth, local twist.
The House of Comedy, located in the iconic Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, offers a premier comedy experience with top-tier stand-up performances. Known for its intimate yet vibrant atmosphere, the club hosts a range of acclaimed comedians whose credits include major appearances on The Tonight Show, Comedy Central, HBO, and more.
With a schedule featuring both national headliners and emerging talent, the House of Comedy consistently delivers unforgettable shows. Guests can enjoy a full night out with delicious food and drinks in a lively setting, making it perfect for group events, special occasions, or just a fun night of laughter.
The club also offers various services, including private party rentals and opportunities to hire comedians. Whether you’re catching a show by an established star or discovering new talent, the House of Comedy is the go-to spot for comedy fans in Minnesota.
Address: 408 E. Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425
Phone: (952) 858-8558
Website: Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy
Hours: Contact the club to confirm.
Minneapolis has a comedy scene that’s bold, dynamic, and deeply rooted in the city’s rich artistic culture. Known for embracing creativity and individuality, the city supports a wide range of comedic voices—from polished stand-up acts to boundary-pushing improv and sketch groups.
Iconic clubs, black box theaters, and indie venues host nightly shows that feature everything from up-and-coming local talent to nationally touring performers. The stand-up scene is sharp and varied, with comics tackling everything from personal stories to social issues, often with a Midwestern twist.
Improv thrives through well-established troupes and training programs, bringing quick wit and experimental formats to the stage. Sketch comedy adds another layer, with performers drawing inspiration from local culture, politics, and everyday absurdities.
Whether it’s a late-night showcase or an underground variety show, Minneapolis offers comedy that’s smart, diverse, and full of heart—making it one of the Midwest’s most exciting and influential comedy hubs.
Acme Comedy Company, located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a premier comedy venue known for hosting top-tier stand-up performances. Consistently ranked as one of the best comedy clubs in the country, Acme features national headliners and up-and-coming comedians in an intimate, high-energy setting.
The club offers a full-service restaurant, allowing guests to enjoy a great meal while watching a show. With regular events like open mic nights, comedy competitions, and special showcases, Acme is a staple in the local comedy scene.
It’s a perfect spot for both comedy lovers and those looking to discover new talent. Acme also offers a “Funniest Person Contest,” giving aspiring comedians a chance to perform. The club’s welcoming atmosphere and diverse lineup of shows make it a must-visit destination for anyone in the Minneapolis area looking for laughs.
Address: 708 N. 1st St, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Phone: (612) 338-6393
Website: Acme Comedy Company
Hours: Contact the club to confirm.
The Comedy Corner Underground, located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a unique and intimate comedy venue known for its laid-back, punk rock vibe. Offering a mix of local and national comedians, the club hosts regular stand-up shows, including open mic nights and special events.
With a relaxed, underground feel, it’s the perfect spot for those looking for a more personal and authentic comedy experience. The club serves a wide variety of drinks and has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. The Comedy Corner Underground is committed to providing a platform for up-and-coming talent, while also hosting experienced comedians.
It’s an ideal venue for comedy lovers seeking something different, with performances most nights of the week. Whether you’re attending a show or looking to perform yourself, this spot offers an inclusive and fun environment for all comedy enthusiasts.
Address: 1501 Washington Ave S Suite B1, Minneapolis, MN 55454
Phone: (612) 492-1197
Website: Comedy Corner Underground
Hours: Contact club to confirm.
Rochester, Minnesota is best known for its medical innovation, but it’s also cultivating a small yet enthusiastic comedy scene that adds a fresh spark to the city’s cultural life. With a growing number of stand-up shows, improv nights, and open mics, Rochester offers a welcoming space for both seasoned performers and newcomers to take the stage.
Local bars, coffee shops, and community theaters serve as creative hubs, hosting regular comedy events that draw diverse crowds looking for smart, accessible entertainment. Improv groups bring spontaneous energy and audience interaction to intimate venues, while stand-up comics deliver everything from observational humor to heartfelt storytelling.
Though the scene is still developing, it has a grassroots charm and strong community support that make it ripe for growth. With passionate performers, supportive audiences, and a desire for more live entertainment, Rochester is steadily building a comedy culture that’s genuine, engaging, and uniquely its own.
Goonie’s Comedy Club, located in Rochester, Minnesota, is a fun and lively venue for comedy lovers. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, the club features a mix of local talent and nationally recognized comedians, offering an entertaining experience for all.
Goonie’s hosts a variety of shows, including stand-up performances, open mic nights, and special events, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The club is dedicated to providing a great night out, with affordable ticket prices and a cozy, intimate setting that allows for up-close comedy.
Whether you’re looking to catch a famous comedian or discover new talent, Goonie’s Comedy Club delivers consistently hilarious performances. The club’s convenient location and easy access to nearby hotels make it a great destination for a night of laughs in Rochester. With performances throughout the week, Goonie’s is a must-visit spot for anyone seeking top-notch comedy entertainment.
Address: 1625 Broadway Ave S, Rochester, MN 55904
Phone: Contact via the website.
Website: Goonie’s Comedy Club
Hours: Contact club to confirm.
St. Paul, Minnesota offers a comedy scene that’s rich in character, community-driven, and deeply tied to the city’s artistic roots. Often seen as the quieter counterpart to Minneapolis, St. Paul brings a more intimate, thoughtful energy to its live comedy offerings.
Stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy all have a place here, with shows taking place in cozy theaters, neighborhood bars, and cultural centers throughout the city. Local comedians draw from Midwestern charm, sharp wit, and personal storytelling to craft performances that feel authentic and relatable.
Improv troupes thrive in collaborative spaces, often blending humor with heartfelt moments and audience participation. Sketch comedy brings clever takes on everyday life, with a distinctly local flavor. The scene is supportive and welcoming, making it a great place for emerging talent to grow and connect. In St. Paul, comedy isn’t about flash—it’s about substance, sincerity, and getting real laughs from real experiences.
Laugh Camp Comedy Club, located in St. Paul, Minnesota, offers a lively and intimate setting for stand-up comedy enthusiasts. Situated inside CAMP Bar, the club features a variety of performances from local talent to national headliners.
Guests can enjoy a mix of comedy events, including open mics, trivia nights, and special shows. The venue serves delicious food and drinks, with Heggies Pizza and craft beers on the menu, ensuring a full entertainment experience. Laugh Camp is perfect for those seeking a fun night out with great laughs and a cozy atmosphere.
The club also offers private event rentals, making it a versatile space for celebrations or productions. With regular shows throughout the week, Laugh Camp Comedy Club is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to enjoy quality comedy in the heart of St. Paul.
Address: 738 S. Garfield Ave, Traverse City, MI 49686
Phone: (231) 421-1880
Website: Traverse City Comedy Club
Hours: Contact club to confirm.
Minnesota’s improv and sketch comedy scene is vibrant, collaborative, and full of creative depth. Centered in the Twin Cities but stretching across the state, it brings together a wide range of performers—from seasoned pros to bold newcomers—who thrive in a culture that values storytelling, quick wit, and originality.
Minneapolis and St. Paul serve as hubs, with black box theaters and indie venues regularly hosting improv jams, sketch showcases, and comedy festivals. Improv troupes deliver everything from short-form games to long-form narratives, often blending humor with sharp emotional insight.
Sketch comedy thrives on clever writing and smart satire, drawing inspiration from local culture, politics, and everyday quirks. The scene is driven by a strong sense of community, where performers collaborate, teach, and support one another through classes, workshops, and DIY productions.
Whether polished or off-the-cuff, Minnesota’s improv and sketch scene is warm, inventive, and consistently engaging—bringing fresh laughs to every corner of the state.Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

