The Purple Onion comedy club opened in 1952. After its building was sold to a new owner, the club held its last show on September 24, 2012. The small club seated about 80 people.
Over the years, many of comedy's biggest stars performed here, including Bob Newhart, Jim Nabors, Phyllis Diller, Woody Allen, Lenny Bruce, Richard Pryor, Robin Williams, Zach Galifianakis, and The Smothers Brothers.
The club operated as a music venue during the 90's, but returned to comedy in 2004.