How to Book Second City Improv Tickets Chicago

The Second City in Chicago is more than just a comedy venue—it’s the birthplace of modern improvisational theater and a cultural landmark that has launched the careers of iconic comedians like Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert, Bill Murray, and Amy Poehler. For comedy lovers, theater enthusiasts, and tourists alike, experiencing a live improv show at The Second City is a quintessential Chicago experience. But booking tickets can be confusing for first-time visitors unfamiliar with the venue’s structure, show schedules, or online systems. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of securing your tickets, from understanding the different theaters and show types to avoiding common pitfalls and maximizing your experience. Whether you’re planning a date night, a group outing, or a solo cultural adventure, knowing how to book Second City improv tickets in Chicago ensures you don’t miss out on one of the city’s most dynamic live entertainment offerings.

Step-by-Step Guide

Booking tickets to see an improv show at The Second City in Chicago is straightforward once you understand the system. Follow this detailed, sequential guide to secure your seats with confidence.

1. Determine Your Show Preferences

Before you begin searching for tickets, decide what kind of experience you want. The Second City operates multiple theaters in Chicago, each offering different types of performances:

• The Mainstage: Features long-form improv and sketch comedy, often with rotating casts. These are the most popular shows and typically run for several months.
• The e.t.c. (Experimental Theatre Company) Stage: Showcases newer, more experimental, and often edgier material. Ideal for audiences seeking cutting-edge comedy.
• The Second City Training Center: Offers student performances, which are more affordable and provide a glimpse into the next generation of comedic talent.
• Special Events and Holiday Shows: Seasonal performances like “The Second City’s Holiday Revue” or themed nights (e.g., “Murder Mystery Improv”) occur throughout the year.

Each theater has a different seating capacity and vibe. The Mainstage is the largest and most polished, while the e.t.c. stage is intimate and often more interactive. Consider your tolerance for spontaneity—improv means no two shows are alike, and audience participation may occur.

2. Visit the Official Website

The only guaranteed source for authentic, up-to-date ticket availability is secondcity.com. Avoid third-party ticket resellers or unofficial sites—they may charge inflated prices or sell invalid tickets. Bookmark the official site and use it exclusively for bookings.

Once on the homepage, hover over or click “Shows” in the main navigation. You’ll see a dropdown menu listing all current Chicago productions. Click on the theater or show title that interests you. Each show page includes a synopsis, cast information, performance dates, and a clear “Buy Tickets” button.

3. Select Your Performance Date and Time

The Second City typically offers multiple shows per night, especially on weekends. Common performance times include:

• 7:30 PM (main evening show)
• 9:30 PM (late-night show, often more risqué)
• 2:00 PM (matinee, ideal for families or daytime visitors)

Weekday shows (Tuesday–Thursday) are less crowded and often have better seat availability. Friday and Saturday nights are the busiest, especially during tourist season (May–September). If you’re flexible, midweek performances offer a quieter, more immersive experience.

Click on your preferred date and time. A seating chart will appear, displaying available seats in real time. The venue uses a tiered pricing model, with premium seats near the front or center commanding higher prices. For first-timers, mid-level center seats (Rows E–J) offer the best balance of view and value.

4. Choose Your Seats

The seating chart is color-coded:

• Green: Available seats
• Yellow: Limited availability or slightly obstructed views
• Gray: Sold out or reserved

Hover over any seat to see its exact location and price. Avoid seats along the far sides of the theater if you want to see all performers clearly—improv often involves movement across the entire stage. Also, be aware that some seats near the front may have slightly elevated risers or be close to the sound equipment, which can be overwhelming for sensitive listeners.

Click your desired seats. You can select up to six seats in one transaction. If you’re booking for a group, try selecting seats together rather than scattered to maintain group cohesion during the show.

5. Create or Log Into Your Account

Before checkout, you’ll be prompted to either log in to an existing account or create a new one. Creating an account is highly recommended—it allows you to save payment methods, receive show updates, and easily rebook for future performances.

If you’re a first-time user, click “Create Account.” You’ll need:

• Your full name
• A valid email address
• A secure password
• Optional: Phone number for SMS reminders

After submitting, check your inbox for a verification email. Click the link to activate your account. This step is critical—without verification, you won’t be able to complete your purchase.

6. Review and Complete Your Purchase

Once logged in, proceed to the cart. Verify:

• Number of tickets
• Performance date and time
• Seat locations
• Total price (including taxes and fees)

The Second City charges a small service fee per ticket (typically $2–$4), which is standard for live venues. There are no hidden costs. You’ll see a breakdown before finalizing.

Select your payment method. The site accepts major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), Apple Pay, and Google Pay. Debit cards linked to credit networks are also accepted. Gift cards can be applied during checkout if you have them.

Read the terms carefully. All tickets are non-refundable, but exchanges are sometimes permitted for a fee if requested at least 24 hours in advance. Confirm you understand the policy before clicking “Complete Purchase.”

7. Receive and Store Your Tickets

After payment, you’ll see a confirmation page with your order number and a digital ticket barcode. An email with the same information will be sent to your verified address within minutes. Save this email and screenshot the barcode.

At the theater, you have two entry options:

• Mobile Entry: Present the barcode on your smartphone at the entrance scanner.
• Will Call: Pick up physical tickets at the box office using your ID and the last four digits of the credit card used for purchase.

Mobile entry is faster and more reliable. Avoid printing tickets unless you’re certain your printer will produce a scannable barcode—many printed versions fail to register at the scanner.

8. Arrive Early and Prepare for the Show

Doors open 30 minutes before showtime. Arriving early gives you time to:

• Use the restroom
• Grab a drink or snack from the bar (cash and card accepted)
• Find your seat without rushing
• Review the show program (available at your seat or online)

Arriving late may result in being seated at intermission or in less desirable spots. The Second City has a strict no-late-entry policy for the first 15 minutes of the show to preserve the performers’ flow.

Best Practices

Booking tickets is only half the battle. To ensure a seamless and memorable experience, follow these expert best practices.

Book as Early as Possible

Popular shows, especially during holidays and summer months, sell out weeks in advance. The Second City releases new performance schedules monthly, usually on the first day of the preceding month. For example, June’s lineup is released on May 1. Set a calendar reminder to check availability on the first of each month. Booking 4–6 weeks ahead guarantees the best seat selection and avoids last-minute stress.

Sign Up for Email Alerts

On the Second City website, scroll to the footer and enter your email address in the “Stay Updated” section. You’ll receive notifications about:

• New show announcements
• Flash sales or discount codes
• Last-minute seat releases
• Special guest appearances

These alerts often include exclusive early access for subscribers, giving you a competitive edge over general ticket buyers.

Consider Membership or Season Passes

If you plan to attend multiple shows, consider a Second City Membership. For $120/year, members receive:

• 20% off all ticket purchases
• Priority seating
• Free parking validation
• Invitations to backstage meet-and-greets
• Exclusive merchandise discounts

Membership pays for itself after just two full-price tickets and is ideal for locals or frequent visitors.

Avoid Peak Times When Possible

Friday and Saturday nights, especially after 8 PM, are the most crowded. If you prefer a relaxed atmosphere and easier parking, choose Tuesday or Wednesday evenings. Matinees on weekends are also less hectic and often attract a more diverse crowd, including families and seniors.

Use the Parking Guide

The Second City is located in the heart of Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood. While street parking is limited, several garages are nearby:

• Chicago Theatre Garage: 175 N. Dearborn Street (5-minute walk)
• Wrigley Building Garage: 20 E. Ontario Street (7-minute walk)
• Second City’s own parking validation: Available for up to 4 hours with ticket stub at the box office

Use apps like SpotHero or ParkWhiz to reserve and prepay for parking in advance—this saves time and ensures a spot, especially on busy nights.

Prepare for the Improv Experience

Improv is unpredictable. Unlike scripted theater, performers react to audience suggestions in real time. To enhance your enjoyment:

• Be ready to shout out suggestions if prompted—this is part of the fun!
• Don’t expect punchlines every 30 seconds—improv thrives on build-up and character development
• Bring an open mind; some sketches may be absurd, provocative, or intentionally awkward
• Resist the urge to record video or audio—this is against policy and disrupts performers

Check for Discounts and Promotions

While The Second City doesn’t run constant sales, look for:

• Student discounts: Valid ID required; 20% off Mainstage and e.t.c. shows
• Group rates: 10–15% off for parties of 10 or more
• Chicago CityPASS: Includes admission to The Second City as part of a bundled attraction package
• Local business partnerships: Some hotels and museums offer complimentary or discounted tickets to guests

Always ask at the box office or check the website’s “Deals” section before purchasing.

Tools and Resources

Maximize your ticket booking and show experience with these trusted tools and resources.

Official Website: secondcity.com

The primary and most reliable source for show schedules, seating maps, and ticket purchases. Updated in real time with no delays.

Second City Mobile App

Download the official app (available on iOS and Android) for push notifications, digital ticket storage, and quick access to show info. The app also includes a built-in map of the venue and nearby dining options.

SeatGeek and StubHub (Use with Caution)

While these platforms list Second City tickets, they are secondary marketplaces. Prices often exceed face value, and there’s no guarantee of authenticity. Only use them as a last resort if official channels are sold out, and always verify the seller’s rating and refund policy.

Google Maps and Waze

Use these apps to navigate to The Second City’s address: 1616 N. Wells Street, Chicago, IL. They provide real-time traffic updates, parking availability, and walking directions from nearby public transit stops.

Yelp and TripAdvisor

Read recent reviews to gauge crowd size, show quality, and service. Look for reviews from the past 30 days for the most accurate insights. Pay attention to comments about seating comfort, sound quality, and staff friendliness.

Chicago Tourism Portal: choosechicago.com

The city’s official tourism site often features curated lists of top comedy shows, including The Second City. It also offers seasonal event calendars and city-wide deals that may include combo tickets with other attractions.

Reddit Communities

Join r/Chicago or r/SecondCity on Reddit. Locals often post about last-minute ticket releases, cast changes, or hidden gems like open mic nights at the Training Center. These communities are active and responsive.

Calendar Apps

Sync your ticket confirmation with Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, or Microsoft Outlook. Set a reminder for 1 hour before showtime to avoid forgetting. You can also create a recurring reminder for the first day of each month to check new show schedules.

Public Transit: CTA

Chicago’s public transit system (CTA) is efficient and affordable. The Red Line stops at Chicago/State or Chicago/Clark stations, both a 10-minute walk from the theater. Use the CTA app to track train arrivals and plan your route. A single ride costs $2.50, and a 1-day pass is $5.

Real Examples

Understanding how the process works in practice helps demystify the system. Here are three real-world scenarios that illustrate successful ticket booking.

Example 1: The First-Time Tourist

Sarah, visiting Chicago from Seattle, wants to see a comedy show on her last night in town. She books two tickets for the Mainstage on a Saturday evening. She visits secondcity.com on a Tuesday, finds the show listed for June 15 at 7:30 PM, selects two center seats in Row F, creates an account, and pays with her credit card. She receives her digital tickets via email and saves them to her Apple Wallet. She arrives at 7:00 PM, uses the venue’s parking validation, and enjoys a fantastic show. She leaves a 5-star review on TripAdvisor and adds the experience to her travel journal.

Example 2: The Local Enthusiast

Mark, a Chicago resident, attends The Second City every other month. He signs up for the membership program in January and receives a 20% discount on every ticket. He sets a monthly calendar alert for the 1st to check new show releases. In April, he books two tickets for the e.t.c. stage’s new sketch revue. He uses the app to scan his tickets at the door and grabs a drink at the bar before the show. He brings a friend who’s never seen improv before—both leave impressed and plan their next visit immediately.

Example 3: The Group Outing

A group of six coworkers from Milwaukee plans a team-building night in Chicago. They book through the group rate portal on secondcity.com, selecting the Mainstage for a Friday night show. They pay in one transaction using a company card and receive a single confirmation email with all six tickets. They arrive at 7:00 PM, reserve a private table at the nearby restaurant “The Green Mill,” and enjoy a full evening of comedy and camaraderie. One team member writes a LinkedIn post about the experience, tagging The Second City—resulting in a feature on their social media page.

Example 4: The Student Experience

Jamal, a college student at the University of Illinois Chicago, attends a student performance at the Training Center on a Wednesday night. He shows his valid student ID at the box office and receives a discounted $15 ticket. The show features a mix of improv and original sketches created by first-year performers. He finds it raw, energetic, and hilarious. He returns the next month with his roommate and begins attending open mic nights, eventually auditioning for the student ensemble himself.

FAQs

Can I buy Second City tickets at the door?

Yes, tickets are often available at the box office on the day of the show, but availability is not guaranteed. Popular shows sell out in advance, and walk-up lines can be long. For the best experience, book online ahead of time.

Are children allowed at Second City shows?

Most Mainstage and e.t.c. shows are recommended for audiences 16 and older due to adult language and themes. Some matinee shows are family-friendly—check the show description for age recommendations. Children under 5 are not permitted.

What if I miss my show?

Tickets are non-refundable. However, if you notify the box office at least 24 hours in advance, you may exchange your tickets for another performance of the same show (subject to availability) for a $5 exchange fee.

Do I need to tip the performers?

No. Performers are paid employees, and tipping is neither expected nor accepted. The cost of your ticket supports the show and the theater’s training programs.

Is the theater wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The Second City is fully ADA-compliant. Wheelchair-accessible seating is available in all theaters. Contact the box office in advance to reserve accessible seating or request assistive listening devices.

Can I bring food or drinks into the theater?

You may purchase food and drinks at the bar and bring them into the theater. Outside food and beverages are not permitted.

How long is a typical Second City show?

Most shows run approximately 90 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. Student shows are usually 60–70 minutes with no intermission.

Is photography allowed during the show?

No. Recording video, audio, or taking photos during the performance is strictly prohibited. This protects the performers’ intellectual property and ensures an immersive experience for all audience members.

What if a performer gets sick or cancels?

The Second City maintains a strong ensemble system. If a performer is unable to appear, a standby or understudy will take their place. Shows rarely cancel due to cast changes. If a show is canceled entirely, you’ll be notified via email and offered a full refund or exchange.

Can I purchase gift cards?

Yes. Gift cards in any denomination are available for purchase online and can be redeemed for tickets, merchandise, or classes. They make excellent gifts for comedy lovers.

Conclusion

Booking tickets to see an improv show at The Second City in Chicago is a simple, rewarding process once you know the right steps. From selecting the perfect show and securing your seats to arriving prepared and embracing the spontaneity of live comedy, each stage of the journey enhances your overall experience. By using the official website, planning ahead, and following best practices, you avoid common pitfalls and ensure a night of unforgettable laughter.

The Second City isn’t just a theater—it’s a living institution where creativity, risk, and humor collide. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned fan, each performance is a unique event shaped by the energy of the crowd and the brilliance of the performers. Don’t treat it like just another night out. Treat it as an invitation to witness the raw, unfiltered power of human imagination.

Now that you know how to book Second City improv tickets in Chicago, the only thing left to do is choose your date, grab your seat, and prepare to laugh. The stage is set. The audience is waiting. And the next scene? It’s yours to discover.