Comedy Cellar

The Comedy Cellar New York City: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Greenwich Village, the Comedy Cellar is not just a comedy club—it is a legendary institution that has profoundly influenced the world of stand-up comedy. For over four decades, it has cultivated comedic greatness, hosted countless surprise celebrity drop-ins, and created an atmosphere where both newcomers and headliners thrive. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of stand-up or simply seeking an unforgettable night out in New York City, this guide provides everything you need to plan your visit: from history and ticketing to accessibility, nearby attractions, and insider tips (Comedy Cellar official; Wikiwand; Paste Magazine).

Historical Overview
- Founding and Legacy
- Cultural Impact and Celebrity Launchpad
Visiting the Comedy Cellar: Essential Information
Traditions, Community, and Atmosphere
The Comedy Cellar in Popular Culture
Nearby Attractions & Dining
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion & Final Tips
Call to Action
References

Historical Overview

Founding and Legacy

The Comedy Cellar was established in 1982 by Manny Dworman, with its original basement venue at 117 MacDougal Street in Greenwich Village (Comedy Cellar official; Wikiwand). From its inception, it offered a haven for up-and-coming comics and quickly became a crucible for comedic experimentation. The club’s close ties to the Olive Tree Cafe above fostered a unique sense of community, with performers and patrons mingling freely and sharing late-night conversations.

After Manny Dworman’s passing in 2003, his son Noam Dworman took over, maintaining the Cellar’s commitment to quality and community. Estee Adoram, the club’s long-time booker, continues to handpick lineups, ensuring a dynamic blend of established stars and fresh talent (Vanity Fair).

Cultural Impact and Celebrity Launchpad

The Comedy Cellar’s legacy is built on its role as a launchpad for comedic heavyweights such as Dave Chappelle, Jon Stewart, Amy Schumer, Chris Rock, and Ray Romano (Paste Magazine; Cracked; Time Out). Its “comics’ table” in the Olive Tree Cafe is legendary as a space where comedians gather to mentor, critique, and inspire one another, often leading to the development of iconic routines.

The club’s rigorous booking standards and intimate environment have given it a reputation as the “Harvard of comedy clubs,” making it a rite of passage for aspiring stand-ups and a must-visit for comedy aficionados (Wikiwand).

Visiting the Comedy Cellar: Essential Information

Visiting Hours & Showtimes

Typical Hours: Shows run nightly, with doors opening around 6:00 p.m. and performances beginning between 7:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., often extending past midnight (Comedy Cellar official).
Multiple Showtimes: Expect two to three shows per night; weekends may include late-night sets.
Check Schedules: Visit the official schedule for real-time showtimes, as times may vary for holidays and special events.

Tickets and Pricing

Standard Prices: Tickets generally range from $15–$25 on weekdays and $25 on weekends; special events and holidays may be higher (Comedy Cellar official).
How to Reserve: Buy tickets directly from the Comedy Cellar website. Advance booking is highly recommended, especially for weekend or late shows.
Walk-Ins: Limited walk-in seats may be available if the show is sold out online; arrive early and check with the host.
Minimum Purchase: Two-item minimum per person (food or drink) during shows.

Getting There & Accessibility

Address: 117 MacDougal Street, Greenwich Village, NYC (Comedy Cellar official)
Transit: Subway stations nearby include West 4th Street–Washington Square (A, B, C, D, E, F, M) and Christopher Street–Sheridan Square (1 line). Both are within a short walk.
Accessibility: The MacDougal basement venue has stairs and limited wheelchair access. Sister venues (Village Underground and Fat Black Pussycat) at 130 W 3rd St offer better accessibility—call ahead to arrange accommodations (Comedy Cellar official).

Venue Policies & Experience

Arrival: Arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime to check in and secure seats. Reserved seats may be released if you’re late.
No-Phone Policy: Phones and smartwatches must be placed in secure pouches for the duration of the show, preserving the live, intimate experience (Klook).
Age Limit: 21+ (exceptions for 18+ with parent and advance approval).
Dress Code: Casual attire is welcome.
Group Size: Group bookings limited to maintain club intimacy (8 max at MacDougal, 4 at Fat Black Pussycat).

Special Events and Themed Nights

New Joke Night (Mondays): Comedians test new material; tickets from $10.
Special Events: Holiday shows and themed nights often feature extended lineups and surprise guests.
Show Format: Sets usually feature 5–7 comedians, each performing 10–20 minutes, hosted by an MC.

Traditions, Community, and Atmosphere

The Cellar’s legendary “comics’ table” in the Olive Tree Cafe upstairs is the epicenter of New York’s stand-up community, where comics socialize, workshop material, and build lifelong connections (Paste Magazine). The club’s low ceilings, exposed brick, and close-set tables foster an electric, immersive atmosphere, while the no-phone policy ensures every show remains unique and spontaneous. This culture of camaraderie and creative exchange is as much a draw as the performances themselves (Vanity Fair).

The Comedy Cellar in Popular Culture

The Comedy Cellar enjoys a prominent place in popular culture, having been featured in television shows like “Louie,” Netflix specials, and documentaries such as Jerry Seinfeld’s “Comedian” (Comedy Cellar official; Wikiwand). Its neon sign and iconic brick-walled stage are instantly recognizable to comedy fans worldwide.

Nearby Attractions & Dining

Greenwich Village offers a wealth of pre- and post-show experiences:

Dining: The Olive Tree Cafe (above the Cellar) serves classic American fare. The neighborhood is filled with restaurants, bars, and jazz clubs.
Attractions: Washington Square Park, the Stonewall National Monument, and Cherry Lane Theatre are within walking distance.
Tours: Food and walking tours provide a deeper look into the Village’s vibrant history (Klook).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the Comedy Cellar’s visiting hours?
Shows typically begin at 7:00 p.m. and continue with multiple sets until after midnight. Check the official schedule for specifics.

How do I buy tickets?
Purchase online via the Comedy Cellar website. Walk-ins are limited and not guaranteed.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
The main venue has limited accessibility; call ahead or consider the Village Underground for easier access.

What is the age limit?
21+, or 18+ with parent and advance approval.

What is the minimum purchase requirement?
Two items per person (food or drink).

Are phones allowed?
No; all devices must be sealed in pouches during performances.

Conclusion & Final Tips

The Comedy Cellar remains a cornerstone of the global stand-up scene, offering an authentic and intimate comedy experience in a historic New York setting. Plan ahead by booking tickets early, arriving at least 30 minutes before showtime, and respecting club policies for a seamless visit. Embrace the diversity of acts, enjoy the vibrant Greenwich Village neighborhood, and immerse yourself in a living legacy of comedy (Comedy Cellar official; Paste Magazine; Klook).

Call to Action

Ready to laugh with the best? Book your Comedy Cellar tickets now on the official website, download the Audiala app for up-to-date show info and exclusive offers, and explore more guides on New York’s top attractions and nightlife. Follow us on social media for insider tips and event alerts!