Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed

Bar · Goose Island

Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed

Bar · Goose Island

3

1357 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Photos

Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null
Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed by null

Highlights

Cocktail lounge with stunning Chicago skyline views  

Featured in Eater
Placeholder

1357 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60642 Get directions

threetoploungechicago.com
@threetoplounge

$30–50

Information

Static Map

1357 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60642 Get directions

+1 708 967 2168
threetoploungechicago.com
@threetoplounge

$30–50

Features

payment credit card
wifi

Last updated

Aug 13, 2025

Powered By

You might also like

Terms of Use • Privacy Policy • Cookie Policy
 © 2025 Postcard Technologies, Inc.
@eater

Chicago’s Best Rooftop Bars and Restaurants | Eater Chicago

"Goose Island’s brewpub at the Salt Shed isn’t the only place concertgoers can go for a drink before a show. You go up the stairs or the elevators off the Elston door to enter. The music venue has unveiled a new cocktail lounge boasting a deck with unobstructed skyline views. For now, Three Top Lounge is open for concerts and special events, and guests must purchase tickets to access the space. Follow the bar on Instagram for updates on tickets and hours." - Jeffy Mai

https://chicago.eater.com/maps/best-new-rooftop-terrace-bar-restaurant-chicago-map
View Postcard for Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed
@eater

Chicago’s best bars and breweries for cocktails and beer | Eater Chicago

"The Salt Shed is 100 percent leased, with every space occupied at the riverside music venue at the corner of Division and Elston. The Three Top Lounge is a bar on the upper level of the venue and open for private events and during events. It offers one of the most stunning views of Chicago along the Chicago River with the skyline’s full glory. There’s a bit of exclusivity in trying to get into the venue, so follow the venue’s Instagram for alerts. Recently, Elston Electric debuted. It’s an arcade bar with plenty of cocktails and food from Pizza Friendly Pizza. Beware — waiting for food could be an ardous task. Be patient, and make sure the kids are well fed as this is a family-friendly spot." - Ashok Selvam

https://chicago.eater.com/maps/best-new-bars-map-chicago
View Postcard for Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed
@eater

Chicago’s Best Speakeasies and Secret Bars | Eater Chicago

"The Salt Shed, the music venue at Elston and Division, houses a gorgeous rooftop bar that not many folks know about. The Three Top is open for concert nights and private events. Just take the elevator or stairs and be greeted by a stunning space with riverside views of the skyline. There are plenty of kegged cocktails to keep things flowing, and the giant windows make the space feel larger than it is." - Ashok Selvam

https://chicago.eater.com/maps/chicago-best-speakeasy-hidden-bar-cockails-secret
View Postcard for Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed

Alicia Ortiz

Google
Most underrated rooftop in Chicago. Stunning view of the city! And on a warm day, they’ll open the roof too ☺️ Lovely elevated yet approachable atmosphere inside and out. Interior feels a little lounge-y with tops of sitting space for groups. Mostly small bites for food, but everything I’ve had has been delicious. Get the chicken katsu sando and taquitos!! Fries came out a bit cold so can’t fairly judge those. Small but well-balanced cocktail list. Mostly pre-batched cocktails, which is nice when the bar is packed so you can grab a cocktail quickly before heading into the show at the Salt Shed. A littttle pricey for what you get (drinks range from $16-$20), but I also get it because it’s a bar connected to a concert venue. Prices are going to be increased. I appreciate the few non-alcoholic options too and hope they expand that list in the future! The team here is always very attentive and friendly as well. Highly recommend for a drink before or after show for an intimate date night ☺️

Caroline Shumate

Google
I'm so happy this bar opened! The atmosphere is immaculate, the drinks are fantastic, and the service is terrific - Christian is the best! This place is a VIBE. Also, for anyone who is into whiskey, they make their old-fashioned with their own Bourbon collab with Buffalo Trace, and it's DELICIOUS. I hope I can get my hands on a bottle one day haha I didn't have any food, so I can't speak to it but I'm sure it's great. Highly recommend for a date night or a cheeky after-show drink :)

Cameron Cylkowski

Google
Just really bad service. It’s a cool spot. A great view! But it’s kind of chaotic energy from the staff. Unless you know someone, you’re probably not getting served. Literally watched a bar back give a card from his friend to the bartender mid order and said you need to handle this first.
google avatar

Andrea R.

Yelp
The coolest concert venue! Our friends were super excited about seeing Mt. Joy at the Salt Shed and asked us to come along. Admittedly my husband and I had no idea who Mt. Joy was, but always up for a fun night out...and I had heart The Salt Shed was super cool. And super cool is an understatement! We were lucky enough to attend on the most gorgeous Chicago fall evening. We watched from an upstairs lounge, while others were packed down below. We got a table and ordered some drinks (sparkling rose for me) and food to share. While the food was pretty good, we decided we would like to see some menu items that were easier to share (ex: chicken sandwich, burrata pizza etc were not so easy). We did take a tour of the entire venue and joked that every stairwell you went down the people got younger and younger. While the upstairs lounge was filled with Gen X'ers like ourselves, Gen Z took over the bottom floor where the stage was. Getting an uber out of there was a little nightmare since everyone was walking in one direction. They do have an uber stand, but there was so much traffic and it seemed like all 5000 people at the concert were finding ubers. But the difficulty in getting home was worth the fun night at The Salt Shed. I believe this was the last outdoor concert of the season with the weather starting to change, but Ill definitely try to make it back next summer and/or look forward to an indoor show at some point too.
google avatar

Lenel B.

Yelp
First time visitor on a Tuesday night to see Vance Joy and had a great experience! Driving down from Milwaukee I leaned on their website for info on parking and carry-ins which was helpful. Once you approach the venue by car it becomes a cluster, parking was $50 at the closet lot to the venue, but we opted to drive around and ended up finding free street parking in return for a 20 minute walk--which ended up being worth it and avoided the headache of traffic following the concert. The security was thorough, yet swift with no issues. The bag policy is semi generous with size and they allow empty water bottles to be carried in. They have complimentary water bottle filling stations which I wish more venues would have! They had several food vendors selling food and plenty of stands for your choice of drinks/beer. Once you enter the building structure(the old Morton Salt Manufacture) you're greeted with a very cool industrial vibe mixed with modern amenities. There are several retail spaces and even a Salt Shed gift shop. The bar line inside was longer than the woman's bathroom line so that was delight! They had 3 rows of bathroom stalls and sinks, so it was very easy in and out! The tickets we purchased were general admission, so we could stand wherever we'd liked and the crowd was very respectful with no pushing and shoving, I also accredit that to the music act too. I'd definitely return for another concert!
google avatar

Alyssa C.

Yelp
Great staff! Great venue! I had an awesome time at The Salt Shed with my colleagues. We co-hosted a happy hour here. The admission and security check was quick and efficient. The drinks were flowing and the food was nicely presented. Great way to spend our night!
google avatar

Deb M.

Yelp
Saw Sammy Rae and Friends here. Great place to see a concert. The old Morton Salt warehouse, there isn't a bad seat in the house. Good acoustics, quick entry. A bit of a walk from rideshare drop off but nothing unmanageable. After the show they have the rideshare pickup in an area the is managed by staff.
google avatar

Carlton S.

Yelp
Went to go see Chicago's own Lupe Fiasco who is a top 5 musician to me. Wonderful experience I mean all across the board. Right off highway and easy to find parking near venue. The salt shed is very well kept and staff did an exceptionally well job and getting everyone inside and doing an adequate security check. Venue was spacious and I had a front row experience which made it even better. Would definitely recommend going to see an act.
google avatar

Steve M.

Yelp
My first time seeing a show here and it was great. Sat in the premium section which made it even better. Plenty of seating and your own private bar. Wish there were bathrooms in premium but otherwise a great place to see a show. Parking is a little tough but overall the sound is excellent and it's easy to get in and out of.
google avatar

Divya V.

Yelp
I have attended two concerts at The Salt Shed and the experience for both has been amazing! I saw Cigarettes after Sex and Labrinth perform at this location. The Salt Shed has two stages - indoor as well as outdoor and luckily I've been to both! The space is quite wide and can accommodate huge crowds. Drinks are a bit on the expensive side but let's blame that on Chicago! Overall, a great venue with great sound system and lighting! I'll surely be back to attend good artists. P.S. Getting an uber/ lyft ride after the event may get chaotic so it'll be better to walk a little away from the location and then call for a ride.
google avatar

Ameera M.

Yelp
I visited Salt Shed to see Goose perform and was thoroughly impressed by the venue. There are plenty of great activities and dining options. The service from the vendors we met was really good too!
google avatar

Karen N.

Yelp
We saw Wilco perform at the Salt Shed and was not disappointed. It is a great venue. This is an indoor/outdoor venue. For this concert it was outdoors. Upon arriving there is a security check point , that was quick and efficient. There are multiple bar and food vendors, and even though some lines looked long, they actually move quickly. There are water filling stations. There are some shops to peruse through before the concert. We had general admission tickets, which is most of the venue. The sound was excellent. The skyline views were stunning. We took a ride share to the concert and drop off was very easy and near the entrance. After we stopped in Goose Island and walked a few blocks and the fees were significantly less expensive. Looking forward to seeing another concert.
google avatar

Nikhita T.

Yelp
I went to Salt Shed with a friend to see the pop band Cigarettes After Sex, and I loved the venue! It's an open space with standing room and a sitting area in the back. Getting drinks was quick because the lines moved fast. The area is great, but it gets busy after concerts. Uber drivers suggest walking a block to avoid waiting in traffic. Overall, I had a good time there!
google avatar

Heather R.

Yelp
What a fantastic venue - clean, fairly priced cocktails and tickets, free water - I was shocked! an amazing revamp on a vacant Chicago icon - I loved it there!
google avatar

Alexis M.

Yelp
The Fairgrounds had everything I love to see and more at an outdoor venue. First of all, it looks AMAZING. There's a beautiful view of the city, the stage is big, the lighting was so cool. There were plenty of food options in an outdoor food court type area, and the food I tried was delicious. There are plenty of bars throughout, so I never waited in line for more than a couple minutes. They have free, self-serve water stations there. Why doesn't every venue do this? They have a few shops to check out as well. Which look like they may be rotating vendors. Very fun to get there a bit early, grab dinner and drinks and walk around. Big beautiful venue. Not too crowded. Very clean. Big clean bathrooms. Just an overall great experience! I can't wait to see what other artists they have lined up in the future.
google avatar

Josilyn B.

Yelp
First time here to see Sturgil Simpson (Johnny Blue Skies). Valet parking was amazing and the food is good. Service was excellent.
google avatar

Cody S.

Yelp
Glad to have finally tried this place. Great time. Food was awesome, obviously loved the beer and the selection! The place itself is pretty big, big indoor and outdoor area! Plus the views of the skyline were pretty dope, especially at night. We had a pretty large group and still and good service too, was impressed. Defiantly a place to check out!
google avatar

Mayuri A.

Yelp
Swung by Salt Shed for the Labrinth concert and loved my experience here. They have both indoor and outdoor stages. We were at the indoor stage. The stage is big enough for a large crowd inspite of being indoors. The bar service was still functional mid concert so that is a big plus. The lighting and sound systems were great and we overall had a great experience. The outdoor stage seems way larger than the indoor one. The cherry on top is the amazing view of the Chicago skyline that you can see from Salt Shed. Post concert, they had a bunch of food trucks for us hungry concert goers.
google avatar

Jessica S.

Yelp
This is such a cool place to come for a concert, and it has quickly become my favorite place to come! I have never seen such a clean venue before. My husband and I came here for a Neck Deep concert recently, which means we came here for a pop-punk concert. 3 other bands played with them, so it was a longer show. When we arrived, we decided to buy off-venue parking because we read about the horror stories of the valet parking. Later in the review, I will explain why this was such a smart thing for us to do. As we walked into the venue, we were able to walk right in. They had metal detectors to walk through and also people checking bags, but I never bring a purse to a concert, so we were able to make it through security quickly. After getting passed the entrance, you see a large open area to hang out. There are multiple bar areas and lines, a Salt Shed venue gift shop, a merch shop with all of the bands' shirts/sweatshirts, and also LARGE bathrooms and water bottle fill stations. Prices were also standard for drinks and they have the larger beer cans on sale. Most of the venue is standing room general admission, but we are a bit boujee and we like to have the option of sitting at concerts so I got us seats in the grandstands, which are seats in the back of the general admission straight view from the stage. Let me tell you, these seats are the comfiest, most amazing seats I have ever sat on, not just in a venue, but in general. It helps that the venue is new because the seats are brand new and not broken or torn yet, but they are black plush seats with ample space to move around in the seat, as well as from row to row. Yes, our seats were more expensive than the general admission, but we never cared to be in the middle of any moshpits, and we didn't need to be close to any bands during their set. We had a clear shot of the stage because the seats have a stadium seat layout where each row gets higher than the other. This section is close to the bathrooms and the bar lines, too, so I promise you, this is the best section by far when you don't want to stand the whole time. The venue also has higher seats on the left side of the venue, which they call the premium section. I cannot speak for that section of seats personally, but I have done much research and some people say the sightlines can be rough. I would also not want to keep my head turned to the stage for an entire concert. Another positive of this venue is the sound. The sound was fantastic from our seats and from everywhere we were. They even play the concert on speakers in the bathrooms so you don't technically miss any part of the show. I went to get drinks and go to the bathroom multiple times during the concert, and the workers were all extremely friendly and the lines were so quick for everything. Everyone did a fantastic job with customers. The bathroom had TONS of stalls and a worker was cleaning it every time I was in there. Someone was consistently swiffering the floor of the common areas and the stairs in our section, as well. When we left to walk to our car, we saw a HUGE line of people waiting in The Salt Shed's valet parking line so that the workers could get their cars. I would assume based on the long line of people that some of them waited an hour just to get their cars. We also walked passed tons of people waiting down the street waiting for their Ubers. It's nice that the venue seems to have a designated area for this. Overall, we can't wait for our next visit to the Salt Shed! I hope more bands we want to see come here because everything was top-notch. Funny enough, the longest line that I noticed throughout the night was the water bottle fill station located in between the two bathrooms!
google avatar

Erich R.

Yelp
Cool venue unless you smell the river... easy access to bathrooms and drinks. Always great to have another venue to see live music.
google avatar

Susan M.

Yelp
Coolest venue ever. We saw Brothers Osborne on the fairgrounds. We got there nice and early because we weren't sure what to expect and we knew that there was a Goose Island right next door. Goose Island is a brewery that serves food as well, and sits right on the river. We grabbed a table on the outdoor patio for about an hour until the venue gates opened and then we headed over. We were like one of the first people in line. This was perfect because if you get there early, there's these huge, roomy bleachers in the back of the venue (so you can sit instead of stand the whole show) that are first come first serve so we got a great seat on the river side. From here, you can watch the kayakers and the boaters floating back-and-forth on the river. There's a kayak rental right next-door to this venue. Once the show started, the sound was great and watching the show with the river glistening to the left and the sky line in the distance was the coolest vantage point ever. The food at the venue is solid . Elevated concert food and good cocktail and drink options all over, including directly behind the bleachers accessible by steps heading North so you don't have to go all the way around. I also got a peek inside the shed and I'd imagine shows inside are just as cool. There is also a sweet merch selection and a guitar shop where I picked up some picks for my nephew. The bathrooms are the BEST. Anyone who frequents concert venues would appreciate the sleek, clean, enormous facilities. The bathrooms may have been the most impressive part, I hope they keep them up as time goes on. Parking was easy getting there early, too. We didn't even park in the lot, we found spots north of the venue on Magnolia just South of North Ave. It was a short walk and leaving was a breeze.
google avatar

Michael W.

Yelp
With a capacity of 3600 people in, 5000 people out, this new venue is quickly becoming a fan favorite. Goose Island are working on their space outside and say it will be ready spring 2024. A sprawling space with plenty of room to hang, entry is painless. Gift shop, Gear shop. It was cool seeing the different guitars and amps for sale. Merch is located not too far from the front entrance on the left, bar to the right, high top tables are available to hang, or you can level down, to yet another middle space where the bathrooms are located. Beyond that, you have the venue space with standing room only and stadium style seating. We were in attendance to see Jason Isabell and the 400 Unit. First thing I noted, the opening act got the shaft on sound mix. Jason and his band sounded great on the sound mix. Great show. The friend who I was with cut his finger on a pop top and I went out to the main area to see if I could get a band aid. The staff I flagged down was very respondent. Recruited two medics to accompany me back into the crowd to provide my friend with a band aid for his finger. Most importantly, after the show was over, departing was not an issue on foot. I did note that they only allowed you to depart through the main doors (east), the west side doors were off limits. For those that parked cars, there did seem to be some sort of line/wait. For pre-show, I highly recommend Piece. For after show, I highly recommend Dorian. \m/
google avatar

Lisa S.

Yelp
Came here for a 311 concert and had a great experience! The Salt Shed is an indoor and outdoor venue, but this particular show was outside with amazing views of the skyline. There were so many bars located throughout the fairgrounds that there were zero lines the whole evening. In addition, the indoor bathrooms have a ton of stalls so again, no lines! These two aspects make the Salt Shed very enjoyable and better than most other venues.
google avatar

Angela S.

Yelp
This place is amazing! We came here for Tigercubs and Porno for Pyros for the first time (for either location or band experience). From my understanding, it's an old factory next to Morton Salt company here in Chicago. The place has been redone impeccably with valet parking and very thoughtful details of side shops and an outdoor experience. They have NAILED it! I cannot wait to come back for another concert!!!! WAY TO GO SALT SHED!!!!!
google avatar

Lexi J.

Yelp
This has got to be one of the coolest venues in the city! The seating is really weird ish. I went to Rose on the River (amazing). GA - standing, I saw folks in bleachers, and premium seating as well. Those seats looked hard and can't imagine sitting on those. They had food trucks, a really cool area inside for vendors, restrooms, art, and more. I think it's right next to Goose Island, and the actual Morton Salt warehouse. I can't wait to come back!
google avatar

Leland L.

Yelp
One of my favorite concert venues in Chicago!! So much space and the best part is the ceiling and the acoustics. I've been here 3 times and love it. Only downfall is that it's hard to get to via public transit, but the space is super new and nice, large clean bathrooms, and relatively easy to get in, out, and around with crowds of people. Definitely recommend seeing a show here!
google avatar

Bob R.

Yelp
I remember this as it used to be - the Morton Salt Shed, where Morton stored tons and tons of salt. When they closed this, Id heard rumors of it becoming a venue. For my life, I couldn't imagine how they would get the acoustics right in such an ample, irregular space. When you arrive, you enter an area outside the Salt Shed, where they built a welcome center. It is open, and they have some food trucks, a beer tent (which was not open when we were there, and picnic tables. We sampled some of the food before going into the venue. When you first enter, you enter a new space they built which leads into the Salt Shed. This area consists of a couple of gift shops, a bar, and another area where you can buy concert merchandise. From there, you enter the venue. The space is large. Because of how this was initially built, the front of the building is sloped so, facing the stage, there are no seats to your right. There are two balconies straight ahead of the stage. There is another balcony area to the left which is the VIP section. It has its own entrance, table seating, concert seats, and what looked like a top-shelf bar. (Since we couldn't get up there, I can't comment much about the VIP section.) We sat on the first balcony, about six rows back. In front of you are the sound engineers, using Salt Shed equipment and a mosh pit in front of the sound booth. The mosh pit is enormous but for younger people than me. We saw two of the three bands. The opening band was not to our liking. The second band was the one we came to see, and we left, so I wonder who played the next set. They have good (not great) sound dampening, so the acoustics were better than I thought. In my opinion, they need more sound panels to make further acoustic improvements. The other downside to the experience is it appears that the bands can't use their own mixing boards, and are forced to use the ones provided by Salt Shed. The outcome is the mixing could be better. We had a hard time hearing the vocals, primarily. I assume if the bands used their own equipment, they are used to their sound controls, and the overall experience may have been better. Even with my two criticisms above, it was a very good experience. They are still new, so I didn't see any real headliners scheduled, but I'm sure that will come in time. If a band is playing that you like, this is a unique venue worth checking out.
google avatar

Kathy V.

Yelp
I may just be a bit too old for GA shows and to stand for hours and hours. But the venue is fantastic! Currently, there isn't much around the venue...one nice sit down spot that will require reservations on the day of a show, and a Mexican place a couple blocks up. Important info for people (and I know there are a lot of these people) who think "Let's just get a bite or a drink somewhere close to the concert before we go in!" They have a large outdoor area once you enter on the side street. There maaaay be open food trucks for pre-concert fooding...there looked to be a LOT of stalls for that but only one open on the day I was there, as well as the outdoor bar for overpriced pre-entrance drinks. There is also an outdoor stage, but the show I was there for was indoors. There are a couple little shops in the courtyard area as well...you can be nicely entertained while waiting for the doors to open up. The space itself is shiny and new and very welcoming. There is an area with seats but that is NOT part of the GA-ness of the tickets I was able to find for this show, as well as an elevated area for VIP seating. I ended up standing in various areas throughout the night and the sound was great in every spot. So despite my I-Am-Aging desire to sit, there didn't seem to be a bad seat/spot in the house and I could go lean somewhere while still able to hear the dulcet tones of my beloved band. The venue really blew me away and even though it would have been impossible for me to have a bad time seeing my favorite band, the space added many pluses to the experience. I would certainly return here for a show!
google avatar

Lisa G.

Yelp
Super cool venue. I went to see Galantis; Phantoms was the opener. Dope lights & really spacious area. All-gender bathroom ftw which was very clean. I only bought 1 beer but I felt it was a reasonable price. I had a great time & would be down to see another show here!
google avatar

Matt M.

Yelp
Awesome venue! Saw Ric Wilson and Chromeo on the final night of my weekend in Chicago and couldn't have had a better ending to my vacation. Lots of standing room. Lots of seating in the stands in the back as well as the second floor along the sides. Multiple bar areas and a dedicated counter area for merch. The outside area also had some food trucks and seating to hang out before the concert. Overall a super cool venue and can see it being epic for all types of events.
google avatar

Wongel A.

Yelp
Salt Shed is a beautiful venue. Newly renovated, so restrooms and common spaces are clean and operational. I was there last night for a work event but I was also there last year when one of my musicians had performed there. And both times, I enjoyed myself. Drinks are as good as any large venue drinks and service is good, especially for the amount of people occupying the space at once.
google avatar

Ali R.

Yelp
Super cool venue for a concert! We loved how there were different food vendors, plenty of drink options PLUS indoor and outdoor spaces (which came in handy when it started raining). Also, they have FREE water at the indoor bathrooms. No more paying $6 for a bottle of water, this venue offers clean cups next to a filtered water fountain. Would highly recommend this place to anyone, including families!
google avatar

Scott H.

Yelp
Cool place to watch a concert. The staff was terrific...very friendly. The beer lines move quickly, but the drink prices are expensive. They have a nice setup for ride sharing. I was able to get close to the venue via Uber and grab an Uber pretty quickly after the show without waiting in line too long.

Danny K.

Yelp
The old Morton salt factory was sold and then refurbished for a music venue. Food sold at the concert events is average. There's a brand new ramp for people that have difficulty with stairs. Plenty of security. Parking is tight ,public transportation or being dropped off is your best option. The salt shed opened in 2022 with limited events. Mostly just outdoors. Now they do have both. Check their schedule for upcoming events. There is a bar on every level.
google avatar

Justin S.

Yelp
I honestly can't say enough good things about the venue. I've been super curious about The Salt Shed since it opened. This was my first time actually getting to take in a show. I saw black pumas with the dip. First off, both bands were excellent. Secondly, the venue itself absolutely top-notch. I was a little concerned with the general shape of the salt shed. I've been in similar buildings like that, where that long rectangular layout wreaks havoc on sound. Not the case here. The sound was phenomenal. I popped around to different parts of the building and didn't hear bad sound anywhere. Having worked in several large music venues over the years, I also look at a venue through the eyes of the employee. It's a nice, beautiful, clean venue, with several bars in several different areas. The bars are really nicely stocked, look very efficient and easy to get around. Any staff that I interacted with was super helpful. Concession prices were pretty standard. But not egregious like some venues. One incredibly nice thing that I've never seen at another venue, they were handing out water bottles to the people in the front. Which, of course makes sense, those people have been camping out up there and reticent to move from their spot. As a preemptive way to make the guest experience, the safest and best possible, the venue comes off a couple bottles of water. Really thoughtful, farsighted practices that I wish more venues would adopt. Another thing I wish more venues would adopt... They actually play the audio from the show in the bathroom!! It was a crummy, rainy night, so the outside area with the food truck wasn't really popping. But, I could see where that would be a cool stage to see something at, The only drawbacks were the main venue floor is very unforgiving. Just straight up cement slab. So for a general admission show, at this point in my life, I've got about two hours before the dogs start barking. Also, the main venue could probably use a little better signage. I can't wait for my next visit for another show.
google avatar

Araceli C.

Yelp
Whend whit a couple of friends to see ziggy Marley and Little shorty Beer food and weed all over the place ppl dancing just having fun also food trucks And vendors inside and out Nice venue I like it I be back soon again

Dan R.

Yelp
There's no purpose coming to a show here. If someone is taller than you can't see anything. I didn't pay $100 to see the back of 20 twinks' heads, I came to see Clairo.
google avatar

Willy L.

Yelp
This is a top notch venue. It's new and super clean in a very hip little corner of Chicago. We saw Ween back in September and the show was amazing! We really enjoyed the vendors as well as the super clean bathrooms and outdoor standing area. I highly recommend going to a show here. Only issue is the parking, as valet at this place is not so great, and leaving after the show takes quite some time. I'm sure the parking situation will get better over time but definitely check out a show at the Salt Shed! Super fun! I'd give the venue a solid 5 stars but the parking is the only downside.
google avatar

Sheila R.

Yelp
Love this place. Indoor and outdoor stages a great addition to the Chicago music scene
google avatar

J 5.

Yelp
This place was HUGE with great acoustics! Plenty of floor space and seating. Bathrooms and a bar on every level (very clean). Parking available in neighboring lots for a fee. The lot I chose was $20. But this location has a CTA stop at the end of block (9,72). There were 2 food trucks on the property and another food option indoors, but I couldn't resist the empanada's! The staff was helpful with directions and there was security entering the building. I'll be back in the summer when they open the grounds!
google avatar

Asma M.

Yelp
Love this venue, been twice this spring and am planning on a bunch more shows this summer. Here is a quick summary: There is a large GA section but also stadium type seating - I prefer the GA to the stands but both are great. No strict purse restrictions (under 12in) but they will look inside and you have to go thru a metal detector. Bathrooms have plenty of stalls and are clean. Drink prices are just ridiculous as any other venue so be prepared for that. Uber drip off/pick up is a couple of blocks away but pick up is a disaster afterwards. And taxis will charge ~$60 yo get out of there but you can find street parking a few blocks away or valet for ~$40. There are also food options but we never get there early enuf so I can't speak to that. Overall, fantastic addition to the Chicago music venue scene and definitely worth checking out!
google avatar

Meg r.

Yelp
Really wonderful space. Open and accessible. Good food choices in the Fairgrounds outside and I like how you can hear the band play through a speaker when you sit on the patio picnic tables. Overall, even though there was a line to get in, it moved quickly and I like when you get past the gate where they just did a simple sign that notifies you of things you can't bring in with you you can actually step into an area where you can pick up a Lagunitas beer or some food and wait for the line to die down before heading inside. That is unless you're one of those hard-core people that needs to be in the front. And personally, I didn't buy my ticket my friend did but I found two friends walking in the line as I was waiting for them to arrive and was able to walk up with them and have a nice conversation before turning around and heading back towards the line, and then seeing another friend. I hopped in line with them, and then again dropping out of the line after before the fenced area. It truly just made the idea of waiting for a friend in real joy. And once inside, just realize to the right, there's a bar that sells liquor & straight ahead is a bar that sells beer makes cocktails and wine. Both have very friendly bartenders. As far as the band, I got to see Flaming Lips, I found the sound to be very good. It may be it was the crowd was all about watching the amazing stage show that they put on but it was easy to find a way closer to the stage later on in the show. Maybe it was because parents had to leave to go see their kids or they saw enough. And I was in GA and it was easy to maneuver around the tall people I couldn't see over. I think it might be the crowd and the type of band that's playing here that creates a space for any possible enjoyment. And sure parking is $40 in the lot and you either have to walk to get there from the division, blue line station or north ave red line or the Clybourn stop on Metra UPNW. I chose this option. I did walk by some divvy bikes along Elston that I could've picked up, but instead I opted for the beautiful walk and view of the city of Chicago on my first visit to this really great location. I also brought my water bottle to bring inside the venue as they have spaces to refill them and saw lots of bikers taking advantage of the marked bike lane on Elston.
google avatar

Sarah C.

Yelp
This is a great music venue to check out if you're in the area. It's off the beaten path but oh so worth it! I love how they repurposed this space, complete with shops and food trucks too. There are plenty of restrooms and they are clean! The bars all move pretty efficiently and they even have bars placed inside the actual concert hall which makes it even better; you never have to miss a song when going for a refill! The parking situation is excellent too, if you choose to drive there. Of course, if you uber/lyft there is a nice drop off and pick up location as well. I hope I make it back to see another show here soon.
google avatar

Erika G.

Yelp
WOW. WOW. WOW. Chicago's newest music venue is firing on all cylinders!! Caught the always hilarious Viagra Boys here last Friday, and absolutely loved all aspects of the show. First off, it's MASSIVE. Great sound. Lots of seating, and the GA area in front is large and good to walk around and mingle. Nice large photos in the lobby area show the interesting and iconic history of the building. BIKE PARKING. MANY bars means not a long wait for beverages. Food truck food options will be even better in summer. Large, plentiful and CLEAN bathrooms. A cool wine bar upstairs! One improvement could be a branded SALT SHED tram or bus that runs to the major train lines after shows, to decrease the CRUSH of people vying for rideshares after a show. LOVE this new venue, looking forward to attending LOTS of shows here!

K S.

Yelp
Saw Marcus King last night- fantastic 10 piece band, but never saw more than 5 members because of the amount of fake smoke constantly being pumped on stage. Lighting didn't help as the smoke caught all the light. Lighting for the opener was worse, almost aggressive towards the audience making it impossible to keep your eyes open with spot lights slowly pulsing directly in your face. It's a great venue, wonderful space in a great location. Huge addition to Chicago showcases. They just need to do a better job of managing the stage aesthetics - all that smoke you'd think it was 40 years ago and KISS was coming out. It's a shame when you pay a good amount and the performers are blocked intentionally, doesn't do them justice up there performing and no visual contact.
google avatar

Dwayne D.

Yelp
Beautiful new venue. The Premium section is technically General Admission, at least for the show I saw it was, but the seating was nice and it was a lot of open space and there was a little bar just dedicated for our section. Great view of the stage. Very well done renovation. Highly recommend seeing a show there.
google avatar

Mike G.

Yelp
When The Salt Shed started announcing shows I was so excited to check it out and luckily was able to snag tickets to Iggy Pop before it sold out. The venue itself is nice and feels brand new (which it is) but could use some improvements. Getting into the venue was a complete mess. Lines were not organized and moved very slow. We got in line right before the opening act went on and got into the venue when they were walking off stage. There is amble bars that always seemed crowded but the bar staff moved quickly so 5 stars to them. The sound was okay but the stage seemed pretty low so you really had to push up front if you wanted a better view. The GA section was pretty tight but that's not unusual for a sold out show. Hopefully these are growing pains for a new venue and I'll be back but wouldn't say this is the best venue in the city for a concert.

Dillon H.

Yelp
Bought (expensive) tickets to the madlib concert tonight. He dropped out and now they won't give me a refund, can't even get anyone on the phone. Spoke with Ticketmaster and they won't give me a refund either. Update: I eventually got a refund through Ticketmaster thankfully. It's good to know that's an option, but I really dislike how challenging it was. The venue reserves the right to keep your money even if the lineup changes... yikes. The place is pretty nice but they need to review their policies. Hesitant to return after this experience.
google avatar

P. M.

Yelp
Loved this venue to be back "in" live music. From the way they handled safety and lining up to our time inside-nice job! Acoustics were great for our concert-Japanese Breakfast-handled the high and low notes as well as loud and soft. Would not hesitate to go back!
google avatar

Carlye H.

Yelp
Aggressively kicked everyone out as soon as the concert was over. It was below freezing and they wouldn't let anyone wait for the Uber inside. I would think for as much as you would pay for a ticket there you'd be able to wait for your Uber inside, especially because they don't have any kind of ride pick up system. Extremely poor management of a venue that big.
google avatar

Layan A.

Yelp
Beautiful space! It is so spacious and CLEAN and rustic. Fully equipped with AC and even an outdoor area. I just loved it. The acoustics weren't amazing, but pretty decent. I would definitely come back here. There is free waters. There is a bar and a store. Bathrooms spotless and plentiful. Their website says not to bring a car essentially. But I got here 2 hours before to grab a bite and I totally should have got my car to go to the burbs after, as ride shares after event was kind of a mess. All in all, great experience!
google avatar

Nichole M.

Yelp
I like this new venue. It looks really cool and has a great ceiling. Outside, there are food trucks which is nice for before or after the show. They have a good drink selection, especially upstairs. The sound seemed to be pretty good, but I saw a show that had a simple sound setup. My only complaint is that the GA floor is nearly impossible for shorter people to enjoy. I go to concerts nearly every week and am 5'2" and I have never found it impossible to see no matter where on the floor I moved to. The stage appears to be pretty low and the floor doesn't seem to be angled at all. So no matter where I stood, I couldn't see. I decided to go upstairs and stand off to the side I'd the seating and that was better. But the vibe is always more fun in the floor...if you can see. If you are short: 1) get a seat, 2) wear heels, 3) or get there early to be in the front.