Comic Relief: L.A.'s Top Comedy Spots

135 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036 (map)

With emphasis on the "theater," this place has hosted the likes of improv greats Ryan Stiles and Wayne Brady. With more seating than most intimate clubs, (and untraditionally comfortable chairs), you'll laugh yourself right off the cushions of this cozy nook. Also, watch out for old "Whose Line?" favorites to pop up on stage without warning during the week.

8001 Sunset Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90046 (map)

Pumping out the laughs since the Cretaceous Era, this comedy mainstay has played host to some of L.A.'s funniest comics throughout the years. Get your seats staked out early, however, as no sympathy (or good view) is spared for late-comers. And in case you ever wanted to spend time with an SNL alum, stop by on any given Wednesday night and enjoy "An Evening with Jon Lovitz."

7307 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 (map)

This original improv club had no limits before HBO even stood for something. Famous for its brand of lightning quick comedy, and a laundry list of SNL and sitcom star alum, this improv institute is one of the best places to be a comedy connoisseur. Check out the official Groundlings troop on Fridays and Saturdays, or see other scheduled shenanigans any night of the week.

8433 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069 (map)

The original L.A. comedy club is hallowed (and possibly haunted) ha-ha territory. Every comedy giant from Robin Williams to David Letterman to Jim Carrey has cut their teeth at this legendary lounge. Store manager and son of the original owners Pauly Shore is now in charge--but don't worry, no movies are shown. Also, your chances of catching celebrity comedians trying out new material increase greatly on any night that isn't the weekend.

13442 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 (map)

This casual comedy club is anything but laidback when it comes to laughs--unless you're rolling on the floor with your sides aching and eyes watering. Everything from sketches to improv to stand-up has a home here. Better still: Stay over from the 9pm improv show on Saturdays and get the sketch comedy show for free.

6366 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028 (map)

Score some cheap laughs at this seriously funny spot that does everything from comedy cage matches to improvised musicals and even offers classes for the truly intrepid. Things get even funnier on Hump Day when the cover is only $5 and beer is only $3.

4000 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90018 (map)

Because everybody was an unknown once, this place keeps it real with a lineup of up-and-comers that haven't quite gotten up yet. With a focus on multicultural comedy and comedians, this one will you having laughing all the way to racial harmony.