8 Comedy Clubs to Check Out in Metro Detroit

These local comedy clubs keep the laughs roaring.
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Johanna Medranda, comedian and Hour Detroit's September 2021 cover star, pictured at The Independent Comedy Club in Hamtramck. // Photograph courtesy of The Independent Comedy Club

Looking for a laugh on your next night out? Metro Detroit’s thriving comedy scene is not one to miss. Experience it for yourself at these local comedy clubs.

The Independent Comedy Club

Located inside Planet Ant, The Independent is dedicated to stand-up comedy. The club itself is run by comics, so it’s a supportive space for up-and-coming comedians to thrive. Visit the website for a full list of the club’s upcoming events, including stand-up by Sam Rager, Carl Johnson, and The (Monthly) Adam and Estar Show LIVE. The Independent Comedy Club, 2320 Caniff St., Hamtramckplanetant.com.

Ant Hall

Also part of Planet Ant, Ant Hall hosts shows like Ant Planet! and Patty in the USA (and other places). Held monthly, Ant Planet! features a late-night style talk show, live comedy and music, digital shorts, and more. Patty in the USA (and other places) is a Planet Ant Home Team original comedy starring the improv duo Maggie O’Reilly and Nuverre Naami. Ant Hall, 2320 Caniff St., Hamtramckplanetant.com.    

Tony Roney’s Comic Vibe

Tony Roney’s Comic Vibe is located inside Starter’s Bar and Grille. Founded by comedian, actor, writer, and producer Tony Roney, this lively comedy club hosts weekly shows starting at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Its monthly lineups are always posted ahead of time, including headliners like April Lee, Wayne Mac, E. Ray, and Kamilah. The club provides a sense of community for its comics, posting videos of its acts on social media. Tony Roney’s Comic Vibe, 18426 Plymouth Road, Detroittonyroneyscomicvibe.com.

Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle

The first comedy club in Michigan, Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle was founded in 1979. Launching the careers of Tim Allen and Dave Coulier, it’s one of the most iconic comedy clubs in the area. Mark Ridley himself hand selects the talent to perform at the club, ensuring a hilarious show every night. Performers like Bob Saget, Jim Carrey, and Kathleen Madigan have all performed at Comedy Castle. Local comedians can also come out for comedy classes and open mic nights. Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle, 310 S Troy St., Royal Oakcomedycastle.com.

One Night Stan’s Comedy Club

Since opening its doors in 2018, One Night Stan’s has hosted more than 100 comics and quickly become a staple in the Waterford community. With a full-service bar and lounge area, visitors can pop in to catch a show or reserve the facility for private events. One Night Stan’s Comedy Club, 4761 Highland Road, Waterfordonenightstanscomedyclub.com.

Go Comedy! Improv Theater

Offering both intro and advanced classes, Go Comedy! Improv Theater is a great introduction to the world of improv. The Ferndale club hosts weekly All-star Showdown improv shows, which feature an “all-star” cast of local comedians. The show includes short improv games, challenges, and other interactive elements. Go Comedy! Improv Theatre, 261 E Nine Mile Road, Ferndalegocomedy.net

Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase

While stars like Ellen Degeneres, Drew Carrey, Soupy Sales, and Chris Titus have performed in this Ann Arbor hot spot, the comedy club is devoted to providing a platform to up-and-coming performers, too. Rolling Stone magazine referred to the showcase as “one of the best clubs between the coasts.” In addition to scheduled talent, Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase also hosts weekly open mic nights. Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase, 212 S Fourth Ave., Ann Arboraacomedy.com.

Detroit House of Comedy

The Detroit House of Comedy opened their doors in the summer of 2022 and is located in the former City Theatre space at Hockeytown Cafe. The club is owned by Rick and Tobin Bronson, who together have a combined 60 years of experience in the comedy and entertainment industries. This 300-seat theatre will host multiple shows a week, from high-profile comedians to rookies. Detroit House of Comedy, 2301 Woodward Ave., Detroitdetroit.houseofcomedy.net.

This post has been updated for 2023.