Florida Comedy Tour

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McCurdy's Comedy Theatre and Humor Institute has been entertaining Sarasota locals and visitors alike for more than two decades.

Photo Credit: Les and Pam McCurdy

Need a good laugh? These stand-up comedy venues around Florida are just another way for the Sunshine State to brighten up your day.

I’ve been going to comedy clubs ever since I was old enough to be allowed in. So when I moved to Florida, finding local clubs was a priority.

I’m a regular at McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre and Humor Institute, 23 years old and located in a cool, old theater on U.S. 41 in Sarasota. Even if I don’t recognize the featured comedians – and often I do – I have never been disappointed. Well-known comics such as Ralphie May, Aisha Tyler and Tommy Chong have all performed here in recent years.

The nationwide Bonkerz Comedy Club has 13 Florida locations, including several in Orlando, and has been around since 1987, making it Florida’s longest-running club. It’s where many famous comedians started out – Larry the Cable Guy, (above) Darrell Hammond and Carrot Top, to name a few – at the open-mic nights in the east Orlando location. Weekends feature comedians with TV credits.
 
The Improv, also nationwide, has locations in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Tampa and Orlando. Florida Improvs offer full-service dining, and aspiring comics take note: The Improv offers comedy schools and open-mic nights.

For more than two decades, Jacksonville’s Comedy Zone has provided guests the opportunity to see current and future comedic stars – past performers include Chris Rock, Jeff Foxworthy and Steve Harvey. Packages include a show plus dinner and/or an overnight hotel stay (the club is located inside a Ramada Inn). Aspiring comedians should check out its workshops, too.