The National Comedy Center has been named the #1 Best Pop Culture Museum in the country by USA Today as part of the 2026 USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.

The National Comedy Center was one of 20 institutions nationwide nominated as the best in the U.S. in the pop culture category by a panel of nationally recognized travel and lifestyle experts for the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, which highlight travel destinations, attractions and experiences, lodging, shopping, food and drink, sports and outdoors, and more. Fellow nominees in the category included the American Sign Museum, Charles M. Schulz Museum, World of Coca-Cola, Strong National Museum of Play, and Comic-Con Museum.

The National Comedy Center was ultimately named the nation’s #1 Best Pop Culture Museum by popular vote following a four-week national online voting period from Jan. 12 through Feb. 9.

“This national recognition from USA Today is a powerful acknowledgment of the extraordinary artists who have shaped comedy — the great minds, singular voices, and time-honed creative processes that have elevated this art form throughout its history,” said Journey Gunderson, executive director of the National Comedy Center. “Comedians past and present have helped us see the world differently, challenge conventions, and bring people together through laughter. We’re honored to celebrate their work and grateful to the artists, supporters, and audiences who believe in preserving comedy’s heritage while inspiring new generations.”

A full story can be found in Thursday’s edition of The Post-Journal.