While Nashville may be known for country music and honky tonks, it has also been making a name for itself in the comedy world (ever heard of Nate Bargatze?). Home to top tier comedy clubs, Nashville definitely has a funny bone and a calendar full of the hottest stand-up celebs waiting to make you laugh until you cry. So, prep those abs and grab your tickets now, because Music City’s comedy scene is about to steal the show!
Nashville’s Best Comedy Clubs
Zanies
Zanies is the cream of the crop when it comes to stand-up comedy venues here in Nashville. There is always a good lineup at this Nashville institution that’s been around since 1983. Shows usually sell out thanks to an intimate theater experience allowing a 300-seat capacity and a heavy hitting roster. Zanies has welcomed newcomers and comedy legends alike over the years including Jerry Seinfeld, Kevin Hart, and Jennifer Coolidge, just to name a few. Zanies also serves as an incubator for newbies that want to hone their craft in the comedy world through a concept called The Lab at Zanies. This is also where you can catch Nate Bargatze’s live podcast “Nateland” every Monday Night for good, clean laughs.
Third Coast Comedy Club
Home of improv comedy, Third Coast Comedy Club is the only spot in Nashville honoring this incredibly difficult, but hilarious craft. Third Coast is inclusive of all types of comedy so you can also catch traditional stand-up, variety shows, sketch comedy, experimental and any other kind of comedy that exists. Third Coast also offers classes for youth and adults in case you are interested in the art of making people laugh. Check out their 2026 class calendar and their show calendar.
Teddy’s Tavern
Teddy’s is the best spot for open mic nights that are equal parts comedy and cringe. Every Wednesday night from 6:30-7:30pm, seasoned performers and first-timers take the stage to try their best to get some laughs. You never know what you’re going to get, which is part of the fun! Admission is totally free. While your there, grab a beer and a Teddy’s Cheeseburger (it’s kinda famous)!
Comedy Tours Coming To Nashville
Josh Johnson’s Comedy Band Camp
Where: Ryman
When: Saturday, September 25 & Sunday, September 26, 2026
Matt Rife: Stay Golden Tour
Where: Bridgestone Arena
When: Saturday, October 24, 2026
Jim Gaffigan: Everything Is Wonderful!
Where: Ryman
When: Saturday, November 14 & Sunday, November 15, 2026
Fortune Feimster: Takin’ Care of Biscuits Comedy Tour
Where: Ryman
When: Friday, November 20, 2026
Leanne Morgan: The Time of Our Lives Tour
Where: Bridgestone Arena
When: Friday, December 11, 2026
The Best of Steve Martin & Martin Short
Where: Ryman
When: January 30, 2027
Other Local Laughs
Franklin Theatre
Every second Tuesday of the month, Oddity Improv dishes out some good, clean fun at the historic Franklin Theatre. Totally unpredictable and totally improvised, this local comedy troupe will have you laughing out loud in no time thanks to their fast-paced, interactive performances.
James K. Polk Theater at TPAC
Just down the hall from the home of the Nashville Ballet and famous Broadway shows is a smaller theater that is usually causing a ruckus at TPAC. James K. Polk Theater welcomes live theater of all kinds, including some of the best comedians. Upcoming shows include Leslie Jones, Nurse Blake, and SNL sketch comedy writers. I love this theater because there’s not a bad seat in the house thanks to a more intimate layout.
