Welcome to Freight & Salvage, Berkeley’s nonprofit listening room known for intimate performances and a rich history of folk, bluegrass, and world music. With a main venue capacity of 490 seats, Freight & Salvage offers a warm, community-focused setting where audiences can enjoy top-notch live performances in an accessible space. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering the venue for the first time, we’ve got you covered with practical details to help you secure your seats and plan a smooth night out in Downtown Berkeley.

Note: Seating varies by show. Non-premium performances are typically First-Come, First-Seated, with accessible seating options available. For each event, please check the seating chart and venue policy on the event page.

The Freight, formerly Freight & Salvage Coffeehouse, sits at 2020 Addison Street, Berkeley, CA 94704. It’s a cornerstone of the Bay Area arts scene, hosting enduring favorites like The Moth StorySLAM and an array of folk, bluegrass, and world-music acts (including performances by Crooked Still). The venue’s intimate listening room atmosphere is ideal for getting close to the music and artists.

Getting here is easy: Downtown Berkeley BART is about half a block away, and multiple AC Transit lines serve the area. If you’re driving, the Center Street Garage sits next to the venue, with additional downtown parking options and metered street parking where available. Parking details can vary by event, so check the day’s venue page for current guidance.

For visitors staying in Berkeley, there are several nearby hotel options and dining spots. We highlight affiliate-friendly partners for convenient stays and great pre- or post-show meals. If you’re planning a night out around a Freight & Salvage show, secure your seats and arrange your plans ahead of time—we’ve got you covered.

Good to know

Seating, Parking & Venue Information

Capacity: 490 seats in the main venue.
Address: 2020 Addison Street, Berkeley, CA 94704.
Venue type: Nonprofit community arts organization / listening room (historically Freight & Salvage Coffeehouse; now branded as The Freight).
Seating chart: online seating chart available; non-premium shows typically First-Come, First-Seated with accessible seating options.
Parking: Center Street Garage next to the venue; Downtown Berkeley parking options available; street parking may be available with metered limits.
Transit: Downtown Berkeley BART station is about half a block away; multiple AC Transit lines serve the area.
Nearby hotels: Aiden by Best Western Berkeley; Residence Inn Berkeley; Hotel Shattuck Plaza; Hotel Durant (within walking distance).
Notable events hosted: The Moth StorySLAM series regularly performs at the Freight; the space has hosted numerous folk/bluegrass and world-music acts (e.g., Crooked Still).