When it comes to universal expressions, laughter is one that is most enjoyable and sought-after. There's the nod, the high-five, the hug, and the smile, but none of these seem to come close to that feeling you get when you share a laugh with someone. It's pretty neat to share in such an experience with those whom you might not even like or have anything in common! Given the rush we all feel after a good laugh, it's no surprise that there are lots of people out there ready to give you that feeling. You just have to know where to find them.

While laughter can be very unifying, the material that makes one laugh can be very polarizing. Many find relatable, squeaky-clean material to be very entertaining while the rest of us may prefer the raunchy, "Can you believe he just said that!?" type of stuff. No matter your preference, there's a lot available in Atlanta for everyone along the spectrum.

Try Whole World Improv Theatre to experience a longstanding Atlanta comedy tradition that hosts exciting and engaging improv shows with unpredictable possibilities. Most shows are held Thursday – Sunday, and weekly specials for ladies and students are available to those on a budget. For those of you with kids, they offer a show on the first Saturday of the month that is performed by kids and intended for young audiences. Everyone is sure to enjoy something this comedy company has to offer.

Laughing Skull Lounge is the place to be if you want access to comedy throughout the entire week. With open mic nights on Tuesdays AND Wednesdays and a jam-packed calendar filled with established comedians and fun events, it's hard to go wrong with this place. They encourage their audience members to come and have a drink or two while enjoying some of the funniest material in Atlanta, and they're behind the upcoming, ever-popular Laughing Skull Comedy Festival.

If you want something more than a few drinks while you enjoy those brave enough to brace the infamous brick wall backdrop, try Atlanta Improv Comedy Club and Dinner Theatre. This place is clean and sleek, and it serves as the perfect venue to have a delicious meal with friends as you enjoy big-name acts. There really isn't a bad seat in the house.

Another staple in the comedy scene is The Punchline Comedy Club. They seem to have perfected the formula that makes you feel as though you are in a place of comedic greatness. Serving loyal customers since the early 80s, this establishment is now partnering with venues around Atlanta and surrounding 'burbs to bring the greatness to you.

Speaking of approachable settings, 1Up Comedy is making it their mission to perform in places you might not ordinarily go in search of the perfect one-liner. If you're in East Atlanta, check out their weekly show titled Skirmish! every Tuesday at The Union in East Atlanta Village (Union EAV). Several comics will be coming together to compete with stand-up material that is completely improvised after receiving a topic immediately prior to their performances. You never know what you're going to get, and the end result is worth the very reasonable cover charge you'll pay to see the creative and insane efforts of this motley bunch.

These places comprise just the tip of the humor hub iceberg in Atlanta. Find a place near you to embrace this universal gift of a good laugh.