Boom Chicago
Boom Chicago
4.5
4:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Wednesday
6:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Thursday
6:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Friday
6:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Saturday
4:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Sunday
6:00 PM - 12:00 AM
About
Boom Chicago is the best night out in Amsterdam. For 29 years, their comedy shows have been making locals and visitors laugh (in English) from their comedy temple on the Rozengracht in the city center. They host visiting comedians and great stand up nights in their three theaters, but the main event is a Boom Chicago comedy show. These are a fast-paced mix of sharp writing, quick improvisation, and live music created by their main stage cast. Sit at tables while you enjoy a full bar with great drinks including (local) beers, fantastic wine and mixed cocktails. Many famous comedians got their start at Boom Chicago including Seth Meyers, Jordan Peele, the creators and stars of Ted Lasso (Jason Sudeikis, Brendan Hunt and Joe Kelly), Ike Barinholtz, Amber Ruffin, Kay Cannon and many more. The next generation is onstage tonight!
Duration: 2-3 hours
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The area
Address
Neighborhood: Centrum
Amsterdam’s buzzing hub, with its sprawling network of tram rails and a seemingly constant flow of tourists and commuters, yields convenient access to some of the best sightseeing, shopping, and street life in Europe. Closest at hand are the Royal Palace, the quaint shops of Haalremmerdijk, the pedestrianized zones Kalverstraat and Dam Square with popular neighborhoods such as the Red Light District, and the Canal Ring hardly more than a moment’s stroll away. With the well-connected Centraal Station as Centrum’s base, it's easy to travel farther afield via one of the city’s iconic trams.
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5,248 within 3 miles
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1,255 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- MollyJJMRiyadh, Saudi Arabia110 contributionsBest Improv group in the worldThis is by far the BEST improv comedy group I have ever seen. Not only are they individually talented but the chemistry of the group was incredible. Improv is very difficult but this group makes it look easy and fun. I went every night that I was in Amsterdam. Every show was new and fresh.Now that's a review, Molly. Thank you very much. The cast does make it look easy and fun. And you went every night while you were in Amsterdam? Aw shucks... You're making us blush.Written February 28, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited February 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten February 23, 2024
- zoe b1 contributionThe show was incredible!The show was incredible! I cant remember the last time I laughed so hard. The actors are extremely talented. My group and I also really enjoyed the cocktail pitchers available at the bar! Thank you for such an enjoyable experience. I would definitely recommend!Cocktails and a comedy lover? You are our kind of people. Thanks for writing and we definitely recommend your group as top audience members as well!Written March 31, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited February 2024Traveled with friendsWritten March 3, 2024
- A.W.GAmsterdam, The Netherlands118 contributionsGreat evening out!Despite being a long-time resident of Amsterdam, I'm always amazed by the city's rich cultural diversity. Boom Chicago, now on Rozengracht after moving from Leidseplein, epitomizes this vibrancy. The venue blends industrial-theater aesthetics with cozy, quirky touches. Excited for the show, we ordered drinks, but the service was lackluster. Service in the Netherlands can be hit-or-miss, often depending on how much you pay. Having lived in the U.S. with its unmatched hospitality, I didn't expect this at an American comedy club. Nonetheless, the evening was fantastic. The main theater is cozy, well air-conditioned, with excellent sound and acoustics. Despite the poor service, the great company and fantastic show made it a blast. Kudos to NTK ticket services for hosting at this amazing venue!Hi there, thanks for the great review about the show!! We are also proud of our atmosphere, but sorry our service was off a bit on your night. Those nights do happen, but we have a new Operations Manager who is already making big steps forward. You will see an improvement already now!Written September 10, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited July 2024Traveled with friendsWritten August 5, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Popular mentions
4.5
829 reviews
Excellent
523
Very good
158
Average
65
Poor
36
Terrible
47
Nick Payne
Hastings, UK28 contributions
Feb 2023
4 of us attended the Valentines night special. All 4 of us didn't make it to the end of the show it was that disappointing.
A Quiz was mentioned in the description but we couldn't believe it was 45 mins of a 'Kahoot' quiz. This was a huge let down! At least make this part more funny/adult themed. Even had another customer next to us say why pay for a comedy show to do quiz on your mobile phone.
Followed by an hour of sometimes ok improv comedy (audience parts were better than the comedians themselves). Done various improv shows in London and 100x better than this.
Only good part was the spirit drinks was very strong for the money, which was needed for this poor night out.
A Quiz was mentioned in the description but we couldn't believe it was 45 mins of a 'Kahoot' quiz. This was a huge let down! At least make this part more funny/adult themed. Even had another customer next to us say why pay for a comedy show to do quiz on your mobile phone.
Followed by an hour of sometimes ok improv comedy (audience parts were better than the comedians themselves). Done various improv shows in London and 100x better than this.
Only good part was the spirit drinks was very strong for the money, which was needed for this poor night out.
Written February 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Nick,
Thanks for writing and sorry you didn't like the Valentine's night. We were kind of proud of it. The buzz on our Valentine's show is quite good and we have people that come every year. The roar of applause at the end of this year makes me think that most people agreed.
The promised quiz, although on Kahoot, is not just a 'Kahoot quiz' that you played in lockdown. Sure we use the platform because it's easy and works and everyone has a phone, but the quiz funny and playable and the word cloud parts were clever. I guess it could have been even dirtier, but I would have said it was a good match for the crowd. Maybe it could have had a proper sex section. That's a good note for next year.
The show too was unique (Matt and Stacey used to be a couple, but no longer is an interesting dynamic) and they are two really funny people, also that night.
I know I can't convince someone who didn't like it that it was good, but I will say we stand the night as well conceived, well executed, funny and well received. I've also seen a lot of improv shows in London and I would say only the Free Association is at this level. I personally prefer us.
I'm glad you liked the drinks and I respect that you gave us two stars. It's so easy to give a lazy one star review.
Written February 19, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Floor987
Amsterdam, The Netherlands2 contributions
Jun 2021
I went to the Shot of Improv show. As a university student that watches a lot of English movies and youtube and deems herself fluent in English, I was suprised that I wasn't able to understand all of the jokes. Sometimes it was hard to follow the sketches and jokes because the show is so fast-paced. The actors were very energetic, upbeat and enthusiastic to be there and they were successful in engaging the audience. As someone who grew up in Amsterdam, the show felt a bit touristy and steered towards people from the United States. Overall, not what I expected but I think if you're a native English speaker and you like dry humour and upbeat happy people, you're very much in the right place.
Written June 12, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Eilidh
Isle of Arran, UK19 contributions
Jul 2022 • Friends
Booked for the Friday night comedy. Absolutely brilliant! The MC was effortlessly funny and there was a great selection of different comedians to watch. All left with sore faces from smiling and laughing so much. An excellent way to spend an evening, would recommend to anyone who enjoys comedy.
Written August 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ltb
Lincoln, UK2 contributions
Oct 2022 • Friends
Unfortunately this venue is not accessible as promised in their Web site. Only one theatre is on the ground floor and they moved out show to the top floor without notice. On arrival I could not access the show at all and was told it was my fault for not booking directly through them, rather than via an agent. This is despite the website containing to claim the show was in the accessible theatre. The box office manager, Finn, was patronising and no help. Promised a refund then refused it.
Written October 31, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hmmm... Now that's one way to look at the encounter. Our way would point out a few different things. Perhaps we cannot win you over, but I feel the record should be set straighter.
First the small stuff. The downstairs theater is handicapped accessible, as are the toilets. Our Upstairs theater, due to it being a building from 1913, unfortunately is not. This is correct on our website.
Also, you bought the ticket from a third party website. And, despite your lack of charm on the night, we arranged the refund with them as you demanded and we promised. If somehow that did not go right, as they told us it did, please contact them directly. They will gladly refund your money.
Perhaps Finn was incorrect to assume that since you were walking robustly with a cane, that you could climb the stairs to the second floor. I was not there and it is possible that he was flippant. For that I apologize.
You neglected to mention what Finn did do for you. At a busy moment, he called another English language comedy club in Amsterdam, arranged your tickets, called an Uber and paid for it out of his pocket! What a nice, thoughtful, out-of-the-box gesture, one that did not make it into your review.
Written December 19, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Morgan
19 contributions
Nov 2022 • Couples
Great night out.
When we first got here, we were a little confused as to whether we were in the right place as it's just a bar on entry, with no one on the door to check tickets like you'd normally get at a show.
We asked the bartender, and it was the right place. The theatre is behind the bar!
We got a drink at the bar, and then they call you through and check tickets and show you your seat. They said table service was available, but the waiter seemed to stop at most tables except ours and a few others around it. It wasn't really an issue as you could go up to the bar anyway.
The comedy was very good! All great people and very much influenced by the audience. There was a 10 minute stand up at the end from one of the comedians in the show, which was also quite good.
I wouldn't say it was hilarious but I think this was more because of the audience suggestions as oppose to the comedians themselves.
Overall, it was a good night out and when you come out you really see the nightlife start in Amsterdam!
When we first got here, we were a little confused as to whether we were in the right place as it's just a bar on entry, with no one on the door to check tickets like you'd normally get at a show.
We asked the bartender, and it was the right place. The theatre is behind the bar!
We got a drink at the bar, and then they call you through and check tickets and show you your seat. They said table service was available, but the waiter seemed to stop at most tables except ours and a few others around it. It wasn't really an issue as you could go up to the bar anyway.
The comedy was very good! All great people and very much influenced by the audience. There was a 10 minute stand up at the end from one of the comedians in the show, which was also quite good.
I wouldn't say it was hilarious but I think this was more because of the audience suggestions as oppose to the comedians themselves.
Overall, it was a good night out and when you come out you really see the nightlife start in Amsterdam!
Written November 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for your thoughtful review. We appreciate the fine words and will take your other "opportunities" to heart as well. We will discuss your service observations for sure! We want to always live up to our standards!
Written December 19, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
A.W.G
Amsterdam, The Netherlands118 contributions
Jul 2024 • Friends
Despite being a long-time resident of Amsterdam, I'm always amazed by the city's rich cultural diversity.
Boom Chicago, now on Rozengracht after moving from Leidseplein, epitomizes this vibrancy.
The venue blends industrial-theater aesthetics with cozy, quirky touches.
Excited for the show, we ordered drinks, but the service was lackluster.
Service in the Netherlands can be hit-or-miss, often depending on how much you pay.
Having lived in the U.S. with its unmatched hospitality, I didn't expect this at an American comedy club.
Nonetheless, the evening was fantastic. The main theater is cozy, well air-conditioned, with excellent sound and acoustics.
Despite the poor service, the great company and fantastic show made it a blast. Kudos to NTK ticket services for hosting at this amazing venue!
Boom Chicago, now on Rozengracht after moving from Leidseplein, epitomizes this vibrancy.
The venue blends industrial-theater aesthetics with cozy, quirky touches.
Excited for the show, we ordered drinks, but the service was lackluster.
Service in the Netherlands can be hit-or-miss, often depending on how much you pay.
Having lived in the U.S. with its unmatched hospitality, I didn't expect this at an American comedy club.
Nonetheless, the evening was fantastic. The main theater is cozy, well air-conditioned, with excellent sound and acoustics.
Despite the poor service, the great company and fantastic show made it a blast. Kudos to NTK ticket services for hosting at this amazing venue!
Written August 5, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi there, thanks for the great review about the show!! We are also proud of our atmosphere, but sorry our service was off a bit on your night. Those nights do happen, but we have a new Operations Manager who is already making big steps forward. You will see an improvement already now!
Written September 10, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Guide768810
1 contribution
May 2023
Boom Chicago exceeded expectations. We had heard about it from several different friends, as it was a must see. The cast is incredibly talented and had everyone of all ages howling with laughter. Can't wait to see which of them makes it big next!
Written May 30, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you Isaac's mom! We love you too!
Written June 14, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sunshine316851
3 contributions
Oct 2023 • Business
Friday, October 6th. we arrived late so we joined after the break. (I think it started at 20.00. When the timer was at 0.00 there was a speaker wh announced some new activities. 5 members went on stage and were shown their creative assigmnents. We were on the last row and behind us were other employees of Boom. Throuhout the experience they were the only ones laughing very very hard but the audience was far from very very amused. I could not stand it so I left (I thought) before the end but it was the last assigment. I was with 6 people and I can only say that this was appallingly bad. It was not funny at all and the colleagues of Boom wre far too loud laughing for not funny things at all. I can tell you that this may go down very well with some people but with the 6 of us we have been wonder what we experienced and concluded that this was a "never again" experience.
Written October 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Uh, next time be on time and see the show from the start. These are pretty strong words for someone who was an hour late. Yeah, you might have missed the plot. Maybe less weed and drink?
Written November 1, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
MollyJJM
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia110 contributions
Feb 2024 • Couples
This is by far the BEST improv comedy group I have ever seen. Not only are they individually talented but the chemistry of the group was incredible. Improv is very difficult but this group makes it look easy and fun. I went every night that I was in Amsterdam. Every show was new and fresh.
Written February 24, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Now that's a review, Molly. Thank you very much. The cast does make it look easy and fun. And you went every night while you were in Amsterdam? Aw shucks... You're making us blush.
Written February 28, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Paolo Tomasi
Amsterdam, The Netherlands46 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
Avoid. They told me to wait in the lobby-bar, as the door to the hall would open "any minute now". After 45 minutes of standing in a hot, ultra-crowded bar, and 15 minutes after the scheduled start time of the show without any explanation from staff, I had to leave the theatre and miss the show, because I could not stand anymore. Also, you pay for seated accommodation but the ticket has no seat number, so good luck. Not that I was able to see the seats, of course. Shameful organisation, and worse service. Never again there.
Written November 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Paolo,
Hmmm... I've seen this bad review on a few websites. Next time here's a pro tip: If you want satisfaction, email us (or any business). It is still the best and fastest way to get a thoughtful response. Also since your story is so unusual and an outlier here, I don't quite know how to respond.
I am sorry that you obviously had a bad experience at Boom Chicago. Even if it is half as bad as you write, it sounds horrible. I hope we refunded your money at least. I looked, but I couldn't find your name on a ticket order. You must have been someone's guest.
And 15 minutes after showtime, we hadn't seated people or made an announcement? I don't know what to say, but it's a strange story. Please reach out. I would like to get to the bottom of this.
Written February 29, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hi! I was thinking of going to a show in february. So i was wondering if dogs are allowed in the theater. I have a small puppy of 3 months that will probably sleep through the whole show.
Written January 26, 2023
if i’m right drag race star adore delano is coming to boom chicago me and my friend would love to go but we’re not sure if we are allowed to come without an adult. we are 15&16 years old. can we come or do we need to bring an adult ?
Written March 7, 2019
Hi,
There's no age limit for this show so you're both fine to come!
Have fun at Boom Chicago and enjoy Adore Delano's show!
Kind regards,
The Boom Chicago team.
Written March 25, 2019
Any age restrictions for the performance or Escape?
Written July 19, 2017
Their website states that mature children 9 years and older accompanied by an adult may participate in the Escape room. As for the performances, the FAQ's from the website imply that some shows may be "dirty" and therefore recommended for more mature children aged 13+.
Written July 20, 2017
Hi, is it possible to eat INSIDE Boom Chicago - do I need to book a table in advance ? I am going in a group of 4 and we have booked Very Important But tickets. I heard this meant we would together in a table for 4 people. Do we need to eat before the show outside somewhere or can we eat inside ?
Written January 27, 2017
They offer dinner options on some nights of the week. As far as I know they have finger food and desserts available always. You can combine the dinner with the earlier show. While their website lists a minimum number of people, in my own experience that isn't a universal rule and you're best off e-mailing hello@boomchicago.nl (or calling them) for more information.
Written March 13, 2017
I was in Ámsterdam around 7 years ago and did a boat tour with St Nicholas Boat Club (by far one of the best things we did in Ámsterdam).
I've read it was closed but seems you have continued more or less with the same philosophy, can you send me some information about it? We are going next week and would like to do it again if posible.
Written August 29, 2016
Hi there, We don't run boats, but I can recommend ThoseDam BoatGuys. They do something similar.
Best,
Andrew
Written September 1, 2016
Have Hot Tug rentals begun yet? Visiting in July and would like to do this if possible.
Written April 3, 2016
It looks like now like it might not start at all. The city revoked the license to run them thinking that it might bring drunken douchery to the canals. They might not be wrong.
Written April 4, 2016
Sorry they haven't started yet. The permits are in (the hard part) but we dont' have a location for them to live and be filled up and cleaned. There is no start date yet.
Our puzzle room, Escape Through Time, starts in September though.
Andrew
Written July 8, 2015
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