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Discover the unfiltered, off-the-beaten-path comedy clubs of the Mile-High City. From basement laughs to hidden gems, explore Denver’s underground comedy scene in all its raw, hilarious glory.
Photo by: Josh Hild
So you spent the day venturing into the worlds of Convergence Station. Meow Wolf Denver is closing up for the evening and you’re in search of late-night vibes.
An unexpected place to find what you’re after in a surprisingly hot Denver scene: underground comedy. If you’re ready to descend into your next adventure, here are some Denver comedy shows you won’t want to miss.
Location: 675 22nd St.
Vibe: Big speakeasy energy
Who You’ll See: Touring Headliners + Netflix Comedians
You don’t have to say much more than “free pizza with entry” to sell us on this venue. Denver Underground boasts “no bad seats in the house”, which is great news for budget-conscious show-goers, as it’s one of the most affordable comedy clubs in the city. Plus, their drink menu is complete with a few NA options if the only buzz you’re interested in is laughter.
Location: Under Oskar Blues Grill & Brew, Market Street
Vibe: Gritty rock lounge
Who You’ll See: Bold, Uncensored Comics
Named for its signature drink – bacon-infused bourbon mixed with TenFidy imperial stout – The Black Buzzard serves up craft beer and Cajun-inspired eats to fuel your laugh fest. Its famous Comedy Open Mic night welcomes comedians of all skill levels, and is sure to have a little something for everyone.
Location: 1260 22nd St, Downtown Denver
Vibe: Alt Community Center
Who You’ll See: Improv, Stand Up and Sketch Acts
From improvised Broadway musicals to suggestion-based sketch shows, RISE will keep you on your toes. And if you want to try out your own lines, check out their comedy classes.
Location: Navajo Street
Vibe: Maximal Mood Lighting
Who You’ll See: “Emerging” Artists
The Bug Performance and Media Art Center was created as an accessible space for fresh voices. Originally built as a nickelodeon movie house in 1912, The Bug has maintained its classic movie theater aesthetic since 1994. From theatrical performances to classes and indie film showcases, there’s more than comedy happening here. Purveyors of the odd may be interested in their monthly “Freak Train” events – “Denver’s longest-running open-stage variety show.” The first 12 people to show up are given five minutes on stage to do whatever they want. Literally.
Location: Englewood
Vibe: Literally a Comic Shop
Who You’ll See: Open Mic Comics, Unique Acts
When you walk into Mutiny Information Café for a comedy show, you might feel like you’ve stepped through a portal at Convergence Station. The place is a literal comic shop, hosting weekly open mic comedy nights and themed evenings like “anti-capitalize comedy.” While they’ve recently relocated outside Denver proper to Englewood, it’s a short drive for a unique comedy experience.
Location: 1338 1st St, Denver
Vibe: Intergalactic Adventure
Who You’ll See: View Upcoming Shows
Convergence Station garners a lot of attention for our concerts and music experiences – but did you know we also host comedy nights in Denver? From surprise mystery stand-up performers to puppet-forward comedians, we have a wide variety to choose from. Not to mention, if you’re into Rocky Horror, burlesque-esque variety shows, or anything in between, check out our schedule of upcoming events. If you happen to need a space for an event of your own, we make a great event venue in Denver.
Thanks to Denver’s booming comedy scene, you’ll have the opportunity to see both fresh local acts and nationally touring powerhouses. Here are a few names to watch for if you want a guaranteed laugh. (We can’t actually guarantee you’ll laugh, but these folks have a pretty good reputation when it comes to funny business.)
Josh Blue
Winner of Last Comic Standing (season 4), Josh Blue is a coveted, nationally touring comedian who frequents some Denver hot spots. His acts often feature self-deprecating humor focused on his life with cerebral palsy.
Nick Swardson
You may recognize Swardson from Grandma’s Boy, Benchwarmers, or Reno 911! But he’s not just a screen actor. He’s a seasoned comic with fast-paced and absurd shows. He’s been known to make surprise appearances at Denver clubs in addition to his scheduled sets.
Frankie Quinones
Mixing cultural satire, physical comedy and character work, Quinones is a refreshing addition to the typical stand-up mix. He’s based in LA, but frequently schedules shows in Denver thanks to his loyal fanbase. You may recognize him from his CholoFit web series or Hulu’s This Fool.
Nicole Byer
As the host of Netflix’s Nailed It!, and beloved podcast Why Won’t You Date Me?, Byer is a familiar face to media fans. Her standup brings an added layer of raunchiness, and you can expect a high-energy set that leaves you on stitches.
Chuck Roy
Chuck was known as “The Bear” way before that TV show came out. While he’s been spotted on Will & Grace and 3rd Rock from the Sun, you can find him unleashing epic roasts on audience members.
Nora Lynch
Clean, smart and personal is Nora Lynch’s brand of comedy. Often, the humor is in the delivery – her stories come with a twist and are great for those who appreciate a plot.
Miriam Moreno
Socially conscious comedy that challenges norms? We’re all for what Moreno is doing. You can find her at clubs and indie gigs for a laugh that makes you think.
Nathan Lund
A unique voice among Denver comedians, Lund is everything you want from an alt comic. You can catch his full special “Soup’s On” via YouTube now.
Christie Buchele
A regular at Denver’s underground venues, Buchele is a master of punchlines. Her vulnerable sets have made her a staple of the scene.
What are the best underground comedy clubs in Denver?
Denver Comedy Underground is known for its basement-level laughs, featuring local and touring acts. Plus, who can say no to free pizza? RISE Comedy is another highly-rated favorite for offbeat shows and improv. You can read more in our full list above.
Which Denver comedy clubs feature local comedians?
Comedy Works locations often feature Denver-based comedians like Ben Roy. Rise Comedy and Denver Comedy Underground highlight local talent every week, and many locations around town serve up open mic opportunities regularly.
Are there any comedy clubs in Denver that offer free shows?
There are several options if you’re looking for no-cost comedy in Denver. Check out Pallet City Comedy’s open mic at Monkey Barrel on Thursday nights or “Showcase of the Mondays,” a weekly free comedy show at The Irish Rover Pub.
