The Salt Shed

Ever wonder what happened to that massive Morton Salt factory building you see from the Kennedy Expressway? The Salt Shed, as it’s now known, is no longer churning out table salt. It’s pumping out tunes. This iconic Chicago landmark has undergone a dramatic transformation, evolving from an industrial workhorse into a vibrant music venue and entertainment hub. The Salt Shed officially opened its outdoor section, known as “The Fairgrounds,” on August 3, 2022, with a performance by Fleet Foxes. The indoor venue, “The Shed,” followed suit, launching on February 18, 2023, with a performance by Big Gigantic. The Salt Shed holds a special place in Chicago’s heart, not just because of its prime location in West Town but also for its history. For nearly a century, it stood as a symbol of industry and the Morton Salt company’s presence. Barges would navigate the Chicago River, delivering salt to be whisked away on a conveyor belt into the sheds. This salt, used for everything from road de-icing to table seasoning, played a significant role in the city’s industrial past. Now, that same conveyor belt structure frames the outdoor venue, a clever nod to The Salt Shed’s past. After Morton Salt relocated in 2015, the building sat vacant. Then a group of Chicago-based developers, including 16″ on Center, Blue Star Properties, R2, and Sky Deck, envisioned a new life for the space. They saw the potential to transform this industrial giant into a multi-purpose creative hub, with music as its core. The $50 million renovation, designed by Aric Lasher of HBRA Architects, was no easy feat. The building had suffered significant deterioration from years of storing road salt, and major structural work was needed. Despite these challenges, the developers were determined to preserve as much of the original structure as possible, including the iconic rooftop sign and the building’s unique wood floors, made from two-by-sixes laid on their sides. Today, The Salt Shed boasts a 5,000-person capacity outdoor venue and a 3,600-person capacity indoor space. It hosts a diverse range of events, from music festivals like EEEEEATSCON to comedy shows like The Eric Andre Explosion. Music acts like Fleet Foxes, Death Cab for Cutie, and Big Gigantic have graced its stages. Even King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard recorded a live EP here. The Salt Shed has also become a community gathering space, offering a unique experience that blends history, music, and local culture. As you stand here, before the unmistakable silhouette of The Salt Shed, you’re not just looking at a building; you’re witnessing a testament to Chicago’s resilience and creativity. It’s a symbol of how the city constantly reinvents itself, blending its industrial past with its vibrant cultural present.