Comedy @ The Carlson

The true epicenter of humor and good vibes in Rochester is the famous Comedy at the Carlson club. More than just a bar, this establishment is a premium entertainment complex and a key destination on the US map for all stand-up fans.

The venue's crown jewel is its modern 325-seat concert hall, which regularly hosts performances by top national comedians. The club is housed in the historic Stromberg-Carlson building, giving it a distinct industrial charm and authenticity.

One of the most remarkable areas of the complex is the beautifully restored atrium bar. Its design is filled with references to the building's rich history as a pioneer in audio technology, creating a unique atmosphere for every guest.

To plan your evening and book the best seats in advance, you can use the venue's official contact information. The Comedy at the Carlson team is always ready to help guests with the performance schedule or private event details.

Spending an evening here means immersing yourself in the world of classic American stand-up. In the main hall, visitors can catch performances by national comedy stars whose jokes keep hundreds of audience members laughing until they cry. It is the perfect spot for those seeking high-quality humor and professional delivery.

Beyond the show, guests can relax in the atrium bar. Its interior is steeped in history, featuring a stainless steel bar and a large mural of legendary Stromberg-Carlson microphones. These microphones were once used by icons like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, so even a simple cocktail is served with a touch of legendary history.

Finding this entertainment venue is easy: it is located at 50 Carlson Road, in the same building as the popular Radio Social project. If you are planning to drive, it is best to use a GPS to quickly reach the historic Stromberg-Carlson complex.

Visitors can also take a taxi from downtown Rochester; it is a short ride that provides a comfortable transfer right to the club's doors. For those who prefer public transport, there are city bus stops within walking distance, connecting this area with the city's main points.

The walls of this venue are literally steeped in the history of sound. It was once the site of the famous Stromberg-Carlson factory, a leader in audio equipment manufacturing. Their microphones were used by the 20th century's greatest artists, and the brand's iconic silhouette can even be found on postage stamps featuring the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley.

The transformation of the industrial warehouse into a modern comedy venue was made possible by Mark Ippolito and his team. As a comedy business veteran with over 20 years of experience, Mark successfully combined industrial aesthetics with a cozy club atmosphere.

Thanks to their dedication and genuine love for the genre, Comedy at the Carlson has become more than just a performance space; it is a cultural hub that preserves the legacy of the past while filling it with modern meaning and laughter.

To ensure your visit leaves only pleasant memories, we recommend setting aside about 3–4 hours in your schedule. This is plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere and get ready for the evening's main event.

We suggest arriving about an hour before the performance starts to spend time at the bar, explore the unique interior, and get into a positive mood. The comedy show itself usually lasts around 1.5–2 hours, and after it ends, guests always have the opportunity to stay and discuss the show over a favorite drink.

Comedy at the Carlson's operating hours depend directly on the schedule of planned concerts and private events. To ensure you don't miss the start of a show and can get inside, visitors are strongly encouraged to check the current schedule on the official website before visiting.

Exploring the surrounding area after a great show can significantly enrich your trip. Rochester offers many interesting locations in close proximity to the comedy club.