This blue-collar setting is where cutting-edge comics cut their teeth, and its list of "you name 'em, they've played here" alums is only rivaled by its Hollywood neighbor The Improv.

The oldest comedy club in the U.S. has seen the recording of dozens of comedy albums and specials. Established in 1960, the standup-oriented Ice House has a long list of famous alumni including Steve Martin, Robin Williams, George Carlin, Jay Leno, David Letterman and Lily Tomlin, to name only a few. Of late, Bill Maher and Craig Ferguson have graced the stage, as well as the Ice House's diverse cast of regulars like Rudy Moreno, Debi Gutierrez and Tina Kim. And though the space is dedicated to comedic acts, appearances are made by the occasional magician, juggler, hypnotist or ventriloquist. Bottom line: Tears will well and sides will ache.