A Journey Through Laughter

As a family travel writer, I’m always on the lookout for unique experiences that can entertain both adults and kids alike. When I heard about the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, New York, I knew it was a must-visit. The idea of a museum dedicated entirely to the history of comedy was intriguing, and I was eager to see how it could cater to a family like mine.

Upon arrival, we faced a minor hiccup with parking, but it was a small price to pay for what awaited us inside. My daughter had a sore foot, so we borrowed a wheelchair, which was a thoughtful touch by the staff. They also provided us with a stylus and a device to personalize our experience. This allowed us to select our favorite shows, movies, and comedians, making the visit feel tailored just for us. The museum even emailed us a comic strip I created on their screens, a delightful souvenir to remember our day.

Immersive Exhibits and Interactive Fun

The museum’s exhibits were nothing short of impressive. We started with classic comedy memorabilia, including George Carlin’s exhibit, Andy Kaufman’s Elvis jacket, and Phyllis Diller’s outfit. My kids were fascinated by the video exhibit of stand-up comics, and it was heartwarming to see them laugh at jokes from different eras.

The next section was a tribute to animation, featuring a Marmaduke exhibit and interactive displays that allowed us to explore the connections between comedians like David Spade and John Cleese. We spent hours creating comic strips and learning about the history of comedy music, with items from Dr. Demento, Weird Al, and Allen Sherman. The improv video surrounded by iconic items like Garth’s Aerosmith t-shirt and Coneheads bike helmets was a hit with my husband.

The museum also showcased Gary Shandling’s set and items from the Ernie Kovacs show, which I found particularly impressive. The themed videos dedicated to topics like Late Night, Death and Grief, and News added depth to the experience, making it both educational and entertaining.

A Peek into the Edgier Side of Comedy

Downstairs, we ventured into the Blue Room, a space dedicated to more risqué comedy. While not suitable for young children, it was a fascinating glimpse into the edgier side of humor. I appreciated the dedication to comedy legends like Lenny Bruce and Rusty Warren.

We also explored interactive areas where visitors could try their hand at stand-up comedy. Although some sections were closed due to Covid, the experience was still engaging. We ended our visit at the gift shop, where we found some charming souvenirs to take home.

While the museum did an excellent job of representing various eras of comedy, I couldn’t help but wish for more exhibits featuring icons like Mel Brooks, Monty Python, The Muppets, and MASH. Despite this, the National Comedy Center exceeded my expectations, and I left with a newfound appreciation for the art of comedy. I look forward to returning when the hologram area reopens and perhaps catching a live comedy show. It’s a destination that promises laughter and learning for the whole family.