Whether you’re a comedy fan or someone who wants to try out stand-up in Orlando, this is the perfect list for you. I’ve organized it based on the atmosphere of the venues and the types of audiences that you’ll meet there.
I’ve been doing stand-up in Orlando for the past year, so my opinion on this matter is also based on where I’ve had the most fun performing. Furthermore, don’t be mad at me if you come out to number one on the list and you had a bad time. Sometimes comedians are workshopping jokes that they wrote fifteen minutes ago.
Also, always show up early to sign-up/watch because the best comics tend to perform first, and there are A LOT of comics in Orlando.
6. Sleuth’s
It’s a fun room to perform in because there is a one drink minimum for audience members to watch you perform. The crowd usually has a few more drinks than that so they’ll probably laugh at anything you say. The venue is very dark, cozy and occupied by people ranging from 25 years old to their early forties.
Drawback: The long drive and the lack of parking.
5. Other Bar
A crazy fun environment. It’s the place that every comedian in Orlando hangs out on Mondays. The host always does an amazing job warming up the crowd. The mic goes on for hours, but the crowd never minds because they are riding the high that the host gave them the entire night.
Drawback: The long wait to perform.
4. Falcon Bar
This mic is only on this list because the host gives all performers fifteen minutes to perform. In regard to the drawback, because there are few patrons, you’re just performing for other comics. But on the plus side, it’s a fun place to just hang out, watch art and get a free sake shot.
Drawback: Few attendees.
3. Sideshow
One of the best parts of this bar is that it’s a crazy fun spot downtown. Sometimes the comedians engage in a flex-off where the crowd chooses who has the best pecs (or the hairiest). Furthermore, there’s a giant wheel that picks what shot you have to take if you’re bombing on stage. Oh, and how can I forget all the great food and homeless people near the bar?
Drawback: Few attendees.
2. Austin’s Coffee
This place always has a packed room. But, it can either be very fun or soul-crushing, depending on who attends. The trick to it is if you can make a bunch of poetry-loving Rollins kids laugh, you're going to have a great night.
Drawback: A particular crowd.
1. Drunken Monkey
This room is always packed and all the comedians get a free drink. There’s always a crazy amount of energy and laughter coming out of this room. No matter how old you are or what you’re into, you will have a great time here because most comics treat this room as if it were a paid gig.
Drawback: None.
