A Look at Michigan’s Eloise Asylum as a Concert Venue

When country artist Michael Ray headlined a concert in the parking lot behind the former Eloise Psychiatric Hospital on August 3, 2024, he said the quiet part out loud to the crowd. "This is actually the first time I've ever performed at an insane asylum!"

To be clear, the concert wasn't set up inside the old hospital, but rather on the lot to its west.

RELATED: Inside Eloise - A Trip Into the Old Eloise Asylum

There aren't records of any other concerts of any kind ever being held on the grounds. It was likely a first for Eloise, just like Ray.

The Iconic Eloise Venue in Westland, Michigan

Parking's currently a flat $20 at the Iconic Eloise Venue in Westland, and tailgating (albeit alcohol-free) is permitted in the lot.

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Walking up to the venue is certainly a unique experience. You're walking between old, tall brick buildings with just as many windows broken out as are intact.

Once you're past security, there's a ticket trailer ahead in the event you are looking to purchase on-site or have tickets awaiting you at will-call.

The concert stage itself is set up outdoors to your left, using the former asylum as a backdrop. There are tents and trailers selling artist merchandise, food and drinks.

As night falls upon Michigan, the backdrop proves to be somewhat eerie at times. The spotlights gleam through artificial smoke to illuminate the asylum in a way that some might consider kind of creepy. But it's all part of the experience.

Take a look at these photos from the very first concert to be held on the grounds of the former Eloise Asylum.