HISTORY
Since 1963, the Improvisation Comedy Clubs have remained the premier stages for live comedy in the United States. Over the decades, the talent who have graced Improv stages represent the Who’s Who in American comedy.
Raleigh Improv opened in 2018 in the Parkside Town Commons retail center in Cary, NC, one of the fastest-growing areas in the Triangle region. Guests can enjoy comedy from national headliners in a modern 560-seat club while enjoying premium food and cocktails.
The venue features three tiers of seating, including 32 luxury booths and rail seating for nearly 90 guests, plus a curtain to accommodate flexible capacities.
Since opening with Ken Jeong on December 28, 2018, Raleigh Improv has hosted several top tier comedians including Tracy Morgan, Craig Robinson, Eddie Griffin, Rob Schneider and Jeremy Piven. An episode of the “Deck The Hallmark” podcast was filmed at Raleigh Improv, which also hosted a livestream by Mix 101.5, featuring local elementary and high school choirs.
Staff is generally friendly and accommodating, but experiences with service can be inconsistent, with reports of slow food and drink delivery.
Food Quality
Food quality is often criticized as mediocre and overpriced, with many customers expressing disappointment in taste and portion sizes.
Venue Atmosphere
The venue is praised for its cleanliness and comfortable seating, creating a pleasant atmosphere for comedy shows.
Show Experience
Most customers enjoy the comedy performances, with many comedians receiving positive feedback for their humor and engagement.
Pricing Concerns
Customers frequently mention high prices for food and drinks, along with a mandatory two-item minimum, which some find excessive.
ML
Marie Lux
4 days ago
4.0
We had no idea there was such a large comedy club like this near Cary. We were seated right in front of the stage and had a great experience seeing Craig Shoemaker. The service was simple with the QR codes and attentive with the wait staff. It’s a very large place, and experience may vary depending upon where you sit. We found it a little chilly, and kept our coats on the entire time. We really enjoyed it and we’ll plan another visit.
FB
Forread Bonsu
Nov 16, 2025
5.0
Great and ample parking. VIP is worth it as you don’t have to stand outside for 30 mins to an hour. The drinks and food is excellent however it can be overpriced. Really good out will definitely recommend
MC
Mona C
Nov 10, 2025
1.0
Kinda disappointig , I was in town and realized that they had a show. We purchased our tickets online and went to the venue and to my surprise I had a different purse and didn't have my ID . No expectations at all on a Sunday I understand I had to show my id but my company had their ID. I been here multiple times in the past and I was never asked for ID. The mgr asked me if I wanted to drive back home for a hour to get my ID and come back , by then the show would have been over with.
MI
Melvin Luis Jordan II
Nov 9, 2025
5.0
I just moved to Raleigh and have never been to a Comedy Club so I went to the Raleigh Improv and WOW what a night.
If you haven’t been you have to go if you want to have a great time.
The experience was amazing and everyone on the staff was on point with outstanding customer service.I was very impressed with the cleanliness and the setup of the club.
The Rum Runners were very tasty and De Ray Davis was hilarious.
Really nice place to have great time.
Thank you to everyone at the Raleigh Improv,
I will certainly be back
Melvin J
KM
kertisha mcfarland
Oct 26, 2025
1.0
I went to the 9pm show but waited outside 35mins with lots of other people with no assistance from staff to come in once we were prompted to go on the side of the building because it started to rain for shelter. Once I saw other people just going in on their on, I preceded to follow them. Once I walked in the building the security searched me and my friend but we were never checked to see if we had tickets. We were seated then I asked where the manager was, then I was pointed to his direction. He was African American, De’Andre I believe. When I approached him I asked him was he the manager and he stated, “Sometimes.” I said I’m being serious right now and this isn’t a playing matter. He stated, “This is a comedy show isn’t it?” I asked him if there was another manager there I could speak to and he told me no. Because at this point he was unprofessional and I didn’t want to deal with him. I said ok I’ll just call corporate tomorrow, he said “Ok.” I told him how we stood outside and staff never came back and got none of us from the spot they told us to stand at. He said he didn’t understand how they happened and he was confused. He was very arrogant and rude. He was of no assistance nor did he apologize for what happened. But then as I walked off I seen him talking to a Caucasian man telling him what had happened. So I pulled one of the waiters to the side and asked who the guy was he was talking to and they said, “He’s a manager as well.” I said ok thanks. So De’Andre literally lied to my face. I’ve been to this venue multiple times and I’ve never had an issue or seen as much unorganized, disrespectful behavior from staff or a manager in my life.
Unless otherwise specified, you must be at least 18 years of age to enter and at least 21 years of age to purchase and consume alcohol. You will need to show valid photo identification to enter our club. Accepted forms of identification include:
-State issued Driver’s License
-State issued ID
-Passport
-Military ID
-U.S. Permanent Resident Card
What happens if I show up late?
Guests are allowed into our showroom up until 15 minutes after the show begins. We stop seating 15 minutes into the show due to the disruption caused to the performers. No exceptions, no refunds.
Do you allow cameras inside the venue?
Photography, filming, videotaping or other forms of recording without consent of the club and the artist is strictly prohibited. Guests who abuse this policy will be ejected immediately. Certain artists may also prohibit cell phones from being allowed into the show. Please check the details of your show at purchase.
How do I learn more about upcoming shows and what's happening at the venue?
Check us out on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for the latest news or visit our website to check out our event calendar!
What is your bag policy?
No oversized bags or backpacks are allowed. All bags are subject to search upon entry. The venue has the right to refuse entry and to restrict any items at any time without prior notice.
Can we eat at the show?
We highly encourage you to dine with us! See our website for our current menu. Please note that outside food and beverage is prohibited. There is a two-item minimum food & beverage purchase requirement for all guests in the showroom.
Does the two-item minimum purchase requirement mean I have to buy two alcoholic beverages?
No. Any food item or beverage (with or without alcohol) counts toward the two-item minimum. We offer a variety of non-alcoholic beverages and encourage our guests to please drink responsibly.
What is the age requirement for entry at Raleigh Improv?
You must be at least 18 years old to enter and 21 years old to purchase and consume alcohol. Valid photo ID is required, including state-issued driver's license, state ID, passport, military ID, or U.S. Permanent Resident Card.
What is the policy if I arrive late to a show at Raleigh Improv?
Guests can enter up to 15 minutes after the show starts. Seating stops 15 minutes into the show to avoid disruption. No exceptions or refunds are given for late arrivals.
Are cameras allowed inside the Raleigh Improv venue?
No photography, filming, or recording is allowed without consent of the club and artist. Some artists may prohibit cell phones; check your show's details at purchase.
How can I find information about upcoming shows at Raleigh Improv?
Visit Raleigh Improv's website or follow their Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter pages for the latest event calendar and announcements.
What is the bag policy at Raleigh Improv?
No oversized bags or backpacks are permitted. All bags are subject to search. The venue reserves the right to restrict items and refuse entry without prior notice.
Can I bring outside food or drinks to Raleigh Improv?
Outside food and beverages are prohibited. There is a two-item minimum food and beverage purchase requirement per guest in the showroom. The venue offers a variety of menu items and drinks.
Does the two-item minimum purchase requirement at Raleigh Improv mean I have to buy two alcoholic drinks?
No, any two items from food or beverage menus, alcoholic or non-alcoholic, count toward the minimum purchase requirement.
What are the operating hours for Raleigh Improv?
Raleigh Improv is closed Monday through Wednesday. It opens Thursday from 5pm to 8pm, Friday and Saturday from 5pm/4pm to 10pm, and Sunday from 5pm to 8pm.
Are there nearby dining options near Raleigh Improv where I can eat before or after a show?
Yes, nearby options include Nishiki (sushi), Wok On Fire (Chinese and Indian cuisine), Cinnaholic (bakery and desserts), and The Honey Baked Ham Company (restaurant and sandwich shop).
What nearby services are available for personal care around Raleigh Improv?
Several nearby salons and spas include Qué Bella Hair Salon, Diamond Nail and Spa, Embassy Nail Spa, Phenix Salon Suites, and Waxing The City Cary for hair, nails, waxing, and beauty treatments.
How can nearby entertainment locations complement my visit to Raleigh Improv?
You can enjoy live music and comedy at Jazz at The Improv nearby, making it a great area for extended entertainment outings including bars and pubs.