Thing to do
Chicago Riverwalk
The Chicago Riverwalk runs along the south bank of the river's main branch through the Loop, with plazas, piers, floating gardens, places to eat and boat…
The Second City
Founded in 1959, The Second City is Chicago's famous sketch and improv comedy theatre in Old Town, with shows on its Mainstage, e.t.c. stage and UP Comedy Club.
At a glance
- Type
- Comedy and improv theatre
- Area
- Old Town, Chicago, United States
- Official site
- secondcity.com
Good to know
- Three stages
- Nightly shows
- In-theatre food and drink menus
- Training centre
Why we recommend it
The Second City is one of the best-known names in American sketch and improvised comedy, with more than 60 years of shows behind it. It was founded in 1959 by Paul Sills, Bernard Sahlins and Howard Alk, with roots in the Compass Players, a group of University of Chicago students who began performing in 1955. The first revue was staged at 1842 North Wells Street, and the company moved to its present home at 1616 North Wells Street in Old Town in 1967.
Its list of alumni is the main reason many visitors come. Performers and writers who came through the company include Alan Alda, Joan Rivers, Harold Ramis, Bill Murray, John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, John Candy, Catherine O'Hara, Eugene Levy, Chris Farley, Mike Myers, Steve Carell, Stephen Colbert, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler and Jason Sudeikis. Its training centre, founded in the mid-1980s, still teaches thousands of students in Chicago.
Today there are three venues in Chicago: the Mainstage, the e.t.c. Theater, which opened in 1982, and the UP Comedy Club. Each runs its own programme, typically a new sketch revue written and performed by the resident cast, along with improv shows, a "Best of" compilation and seasonal holiday shows. Shows change regularly, so check the online show finder for what is on during your visit. Group bookings and events are handled separately.
Book in advance for weekend evenings, which sell out. Food and drink menus are available in the theatres, so it makes a relaxed night out without needing to go anywhere else for dinner. Some shows contain adult humour, so check the show page for any age guidance before bringing children. Arrive in good time before the start to settle in and order.
The Second City suits couples, groups of friends and solo travellers, and it is one of the most distinctly Chicago evenings you can have. Even if you do not know the names on the walls, the speed and quality of the writing are part of the appeal, and first-time visitors often find it a highlight of their trip.
Old Town is a short trip north of downtown. The theatre sits in a neighbourhood with plenty of bars and restaurants, so arrive early for a drink or dinner nearby, and continue afterwards to the clubs of Lincoln Park, where Kingston Mines plays blues until late at weekends.
The Second City FAQs
When was The Second City founded?
In 1959, by Paul Sills, Bernard Sahlins and Howard Alk.
Where is it?
At 1616 North Wells Street in Old Town, its home since 1967.
How many stages are there?
Three in Chicago: the Mainstage, the e.t.c. Theater and the UP Comedy Club.
Which famous comedians performed there?
Alumni include Bill Murray, John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, Steve Carell, Stephen Colbert, Tina Fey and Amy Poehler.
Do you need to book?
Yes, especially for weekend evenings; tickets are sold online through the show finder.
Can you eat during the show?
Yes. The theatres have in-theatre food and drink menus.
Is it suitable for children?
Some shows contain adult humour, so check the show page for age guidance before booking.
How can you contact them?
By phone on +1 800-896-8120 or by email at [email protected].