Unmissable Comedy Gems in New Jersey – Top Clubs & Shows

The Best Comedy Clubs and Shows in NJ features clubs with intimate settings allowing audiences to get up close and personal with up-and-coming comedians.

New Jersey Comedy Clubs have experienced ups and downs over the years. Although they may not be as popular as they were in the eighties, there are still some great venues that continue to thrive. Many comedy clubs have unfortunately closed down due to poor business practices, but the ones that have survived are well-financed and have managed to attract top-notch headliners.

Despite the challenges faced by the comedy industry, New Jersey still offers a vibrant comedy scene. Whether you're a die-hard comedy fan or simply looking for a fun night out, there are plenty of options to choose from in the Garden State. So grab your friends, sit back, and get ready to laugh the night away at one of New Jersey's top comedy clubs.

Northern New Jersey Comedy Clubs

Bananas Comedy Club
Renaissance Hotel
801 Rutherford Ave
Rutherford NJ
Bananas Comedy Club is a contemporary entertainment venue that bring stadium-sized talent to an intimate theater on a weekly basis. For a modest ticket price, patrons enjoy live standup comedy and other performance art from a nationally accredited act, no more than 60 feet away. Shows average 1 hour and forty minutes and comprise an opener, a feature, and a headliner with national entertainment credits. Bananas Comedy Club is a non-smoking facility. Guests can enjoy a wide selection of food and beverage, from perfectly-portioned appetizers to the hottest craft beers, as well as a full spread of entrees, desserts, and homespun cocktails in a relaxing, cozy atmosphere.

The Comedy Shoppe
At Paisano's
32 Park Ave
Rutherford, NJ
Located in Paisano's BYOB Italian restaurant, for $25 per person for a two act show, they feature comedians seen on Comedy Central, Showtime, The Late Show, Last Comic Standing, America's Got Talent, etc.

The Laugh Tour Comedy Club
Located inside Dorrian's Red Hand
555 Washington Boulevard
Jersey City, NJ
Jersey City's full-time comedy club with four shows a week.

Central New Jersey Comedy Clubs

Catch a Rising Star
The Hyatt Regency
102 Carnegie Center
Princeton, NJ
Catch a Rising Star, the legendary NYC Comedy club known for launching the careers of some of America's most popular television and film stars, top comedians, comic actors, musicians, directors, producers and writers.

Stress Factory
90 Church Street
New Brunswick, NJ
Entertaining New Jersey with the top stand-up comedians. Located a few blocks from Rutgers University, features national acts as well as up and coming performers. Vinnie Brand, your host for the evening, is sure to make an appearance and crack a few jokes as well. Food and drinks are available as well as dinner/show packages.

Uncle Vinnie's Comedy Club
520 Arnold Ave.
Point Pleasant, NJ
Now one of the popular comedy clubs in Ocean County, Uncle Vinnie's is owned by 2 brothers from Belleville, NJ, They feature the areas top comedians with open Mic nights, special shows and fund-raisers.

Southern New Jersey Comedy Clubs

Atlantic City Comedy Club
The Claridge Hotel
123 S. Indiana Ave,
Atlantic City, NJ
They feature some of the country's top headliners and rising stars. Located Just minutes from AC's famed boardwalk, The Atlantic City Comedy Club provides an unforgettable night out as some of today's hottest and most iconic names in comedy take the stage.

Borgata Comedy Club
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
One Borgata Way
Atlantic City, NJ
The most renowned comics on the circuit – some famous, some soon-to-be. And all up-close and personal on the primary stage for laughter in Atlantic City.

Comedy Shows at Resorts
Resorts Casino
On the 13th floor of the Ocean Tower
1133 Boardwalk
Atlantic City, NJ
Hosted by AC Jokes, shows occur on multiple nights of the week.

Tropicana Comedy Club at Kiss Kiss Nightclub
Kiss Kiss Nightclub
2801 Pacific Ave
Atlantic City, NJ
Hosted by AC Jokes, shows are scheduled every night of the week.

Comedy Gems in New Jersey: FAQ for Clubs, Shows, and Nightlife

How often do NJ clubs run shows?

Most clubs run multiple nights a week. Atlantic City Comedy Club and The Laugh Tour post frequent midweek and weekend sets. Stress Factory and Bananas anchor Friday and Saturday, plus added nights for big names.

What type of comedy can I expect?

Mostly stand-up with a host, feature, and headliner. Sets range from clean to adult. Expect crowd work, strong local talent, and touring comics seen on TV and podcasts.

Are there age restrictions?

Yes. Many shows are 16+ due to language. Some late shows and nightclub spaces are 18+ or 21+. Bring a valid ID, and check the venue policy before you go.

Do clubs have a two-item minimum?

Often, yes. Many NJ clubs require a two-item minimum per person. It can be food or drinks. Review the club’s policy when you buy tickets.

How long do shows usually run?

About 90 to 110 minutes. Expect an opener, a feature, then the headliner. Some weekend late shows run tighter.

How early should I arrive?

Arrive 30 to 45 minutes before showtime. You’ll get better seating, handle tickets and ID, and order before the first set begins.

What should I wear?

Smart casual works at most clubs. Nightclub venues in Atlantic City skew dressier. Avoid hats that block views and loud accessories.

Where are the best seats?

Front and center has energy but invites crowd work. Middle sections balance sightlines and sound. Avoid seats near service stations if you can.

Can I get food and drinks?

Yes. Most clubs serve shareable bites and full bars. Bananas and Stress Factory offer full menus. Order early to minimize interruptions.

How do I find upcoming shows and tickets?

Check the venue site first. Stress Factory, The Laugh Tour, Atlantic City Comedy Club, Bananas, and Borgata list calendars, seating charts, and ticket links. Third-party sites also aggregate dates.

What about parking and transit?

Urban venues like Jersey City favor rideshare or transit. Suburban spots like Rutherford and New Brunswick offer nearby parking garages or lots. Confirm the lot hours on late shows.

Are phones allowed during sets?

Keep phones silent and put away. Flash or filming can get you removed. Some shows use phone pouches for high-profile acts.

What’s the refund or transfer policy?

Most comedy tickets are final sale. Some venues allow credit if a show is moved or a headliner changes. Read the fine print during checkout.

Is the crowd part of the show?

Sometimes. Crowd work is common, heckling is not. Laugh, react, and keep chatter low. Let the comics drive the moment.

Are there open mics or showcases for new comics?

Yes. The Laugh Tour and several local rooms host open mics. Follow clubs and producers on social to find sign-ups and newcomer nights.

Any tips for Atlantic City comedy nights?

Book tickets ahead, especially on weekends. Plan your dinner before the show, then drinks after. Casinos get busy, so allow extra time to navigate.

How do I prep for a great night out?

Pick a lineup that fits your taste, buy early, and bring ID. Eat a light meal, arrive early, and set your phone to silent. If you want meet-and-greet photos, ask staff after the show.