For passionate concertgoers accustomed to traditional theaters and grand arenas, the Salt Shed, which opened in 2022, represents something remarkable — a unique sound and captivating architecture. The Morton Salt complex has existed for nearly 100 years in Chicago and has been packing and distributing the local salt for decades. Operations concluded in 2015, leaving a shell of opportunity to be filled.
The work done by developers 16OC, Blue Star Properties, R2 and Sky Deck to transform this building can only be described as surreal. They created a new entertainment landmark while retaining a piece of Chicago history. Now, it is not only a home for many musicians but a convergence of creativity.
On site, you will find vintage markets, food festivals, concerts and more. You can shop at the Umbrella Vintage Collaborative and FRET12, a guitar and tour culture brand year-round. The fairgrounds, described as an “elevated festival-style communal space,” is one of the most fun and beautiful places to catch a show. You could almost reach out and touch the city’s skyline.
The Shed, the indoor space for shows, is the legitimate old Morton Salt factory. It is easy to forget the part of history you’re standing within while guitars are blazing and your ears begin to ring.
The moment the concert goers in Chicago saw the stunning photos of the transformed space, the excitement only grew. As Morton Salt’s motto says, “When it rains, it pours,” and we can only hope for a continuous downfall of music in the city.
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