New York City , United States of America

NYC's History of Comedy Tour

Active

(20 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Comedy History Tours NYC is New York City's Premier History of Comedy Tour. See the sites in Greenwich Village where modern-day stand-up comedy was born. Learn the history of these locations, as well as the history of comedy in New York City and popular culture at large. Our tour is done in cooperation with comedy shows across NYC, and our tour includes complimentary entrance to one or more stand-up comedy shows later that day/night, and throughout your NYC visit. Please note, show options may vary the day of, depending on availability. Your final show options and vouchers/confirmations for such will be given to you by your guide on the tour. An overview of each show will be provided by your guide so you can make your selection(s).

Available options

NYC's History of Comedy Tour

What's included

Free admission to one or more stand-up comedy shows.

Detailed itinerary

Our tour starts on the famous intersection of Gay Street and Christopher Street where your guide will narrate, with pictures, the history of New York City comedy from the early 1900s vaudeville, through the dinner clubs and radio of the 1930s and 40s.

Your guide will narrate, with photos, the comedy history of The Duplex, and the famous comedians who rose through this venue.

Stop 3

Your guide will narrate, with photos, the comedy history of The Cafe Wha, and the famous comedians who rose through this venue.

Stop 4

Your guide will narrate, with photos, the comedy history of The Cafe Au Go Go, and The Bitter End. As well as note the famous comedians who rose through these venues.

At this stop, your guide will narrate, with pictures, the history of comedy regarding the rise of television in the 1960s, as well as the creation of Saturday Night Live, and famous African American contributions to comedy. Your guide will also note the most famous modern comedy clubs in New York City at this stop.

Stop 6

At this stop, your guide will narrate the history of The Comedy Cellar, and your guide will offer to take photos of you in front of the famous marquee.

At this location, your guide will show you the second location of The Comedy Cellar, located at the Village Underground. Also at this stop, your guide will note a local stand-up comedy show that you are given free access to later that evening, as a benefit of attending this tour.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

13 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We will meet in front of the Ad-Hoc Collective coffee shop. Located right at the intersection of Christopher Street and Gay Street.

About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have fees)

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown

By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls

650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.

370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information