Coming this summer to Lucille Ball’s hometown of Jamestown in western New York is the grand opening of The National Comedy Center. I was fortunate enough to be scrolling through some of Stephen Colbert’s interviews this week, and discovered the one with Lewis Black introducing and inviting us to visit the center after its grand opening August 1st. So, a special thank you to both of them!

The grand opening weekend coincides with the annual Lucille Ball Comedy Festival, and joins the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum to create a focal point for comedy. The National Comedy Center is immersive and interactive with a special wristband that makes your visit unique. It really shows off the history of comedy as well as events of present day comedians, and where comedy is going in the future.

It’s recommended that you plan your visit and purchase tickets in advance, especially through the end of the summer’s grand opening celebration.

The Center is located at: 203 West Second St., Jamestown, NY 14701, and can be reached by telephone at 1-716-484-0800, on their website, and Instagram.

The National Comedy Center’s hours are 10-5, seven days a week.

The Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum’s hours are Monday – Saturday, 10-5, and Sunday, 11-4.

Free street parking is limited to 2 hours. There is also metered parking and parking garages (see those listed on the website.)

Tickets (as outlined below) can be purchased separately for each venue or dual admission tickets are available.

See the events page on their website, which is filled with a variety of comedic antics for everyone. There are also tours related to Lucille Ball’s life, including a hometown tour, a cemetery tour as well as a tour of Historic Jamestown available.

Admission Prices

National Comedy Center                 Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum

Adult     $23.50                                                  Adult     $18

Youth (13-17)     $18.50                                  Youth (6-17)     $11

Child (6-12)     $12.50                                     Senior discounts offered

There are discounts for Seniors, military,

and Chautauqua County Residents.

Dual Admission to both Venues

Adult     $30

Youth (13-17)     $24.50

Child (6-12)     $18.50

Discount for Seniors and Chautauqua County Residents

Road trip? Maybe I’ll see you there!