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San Jose Improv: Comedy Landmark

Experience live comedy in a historic theater setting at San Jose Improv, featuring top-notch performances, dining, and a vibrant atmosphere.

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The San Jose Improv, located in the historic Jose Theater, has been a cornerstone of San Jose's comedy scene since 2002. Hosting renowned comedians and offering a full-service bar and dining, it's a popular spot for entertainment and private events.

A brief summary to San Jose Improv

  • Thursday 6 pm-8:30 pm
  • Friday 5:30 pm-10:15 pm
  • Saturday 5 pm-10 pm
  • Sunday 5 pm-7:30 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early to secure the best seats, especially for popular shows, as seating is often first-come, first-served.
  • Consider dining at the Improv before the show; it offers a full menu and drinks to enhance your experience.
  • Check the show's age restrictions, as many events are 21+.
  • Be aware of the bag policy: oversized bags and backpacks are not allowed.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The San Jose Improv is easily accessible via public transportation. Several bus lines and the light rail stop nearby. From the Santa Clara Station (S) light rail, it's just a 2-minute walk away. Bus lines 23, 500, 522, 523, and 64A all stop near the Improv. A single VTA bus or light rail fare is typically around $2.50.

  • Walking

    The San Jose Improv is located in downtown San Jose and is easily walkable from many nearby points of interest. From the San Jose McEnery Convention Center, it's about a 15-minute walk. From Plaza de Cesar Chavez, it's only a few minutes away. Just head east on Santa Clara Street, then turn right onto S Second Street.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in San Jose. A ride from the San Jose Caltrain station to the Improv, located at 62 S Second St, typically costs between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand.

  • Parking

    While the San Jose Improv doesn't have on-site parking, there are several parking lots and street parking options nearby. Some of the closest parking options include the Fountain Alley Lot, ParkSJ: Third and Santa Clara Garage (The Globe), and the Second & San Carlos Street Garage. Parking rates can vary, but you can expect to pay around $15-$35 for parking depending on the location and time of day. Street parking is also available, but be sure to check parking restrictions and time limits. Some parking may be free.

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Discover more about San Jose Improv

Located at 62 S Second St, the San Jose Improv is more than just a comedy club; it's an experience steeped in history and entertainment. Housed in the Jose Theater, San Jose's oldest theater built in 1904, the Improv seamlessly blends historical charm with modern comedy. The Jose Theater has a rich past, serving as a vaudeville theater in the early 1900s and later hosting drag and burlesque shows. It even showcased silent films accompanied by live music. Over the years, it transformed into a rock music venue and a movie theater before becoming the home of the San Jose Improv in 2002. The building was declared a historical landmark in 1990. A renovation in 2019 cost $1 million, upgrading the aesthetics and audio-visual systems. The San Jose Improv provides an intimate setting where audiences can enjoy performances up close. It has hosted comedy legends such as Dave Chappelle, David Spade, and Arsenio Hall, who even filmed comedy specials at the venue. The club offers a full-service bar and dining options, making it a destination for corporate gatherings, team-building activities, and private parties. With a capacity of 450, the club offers a range of seating options, including VIP seating in the front row and booths, main floor seating, and balcony seating.

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