Step into the heart of Nashville’s musical legacy at the Ryman Auditorium, a National Historic Landmark affectionately known as the "Mother Church of Country Music." Originally built in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle, the Ryman has welcomed world-famous performers, inspired generations of artists, and played a pivotal role in the history of American music. From grand operas to country legends, the Ryman’s stage continues to resonate with unforgettable sounds and stories.
Recommended For
The Ryman is a must-visit destination for:
- Music lovers—offering rich history and live performances in an iconic venue
- Country music fans—home of the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974
- History buffs—a preserved Gothic Revival structure and cultural landmark
- Visitors to Nashville—an essential stop in the heart of downtown
Overview & History
- Built in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle by Steamboat Captain Thomas G. Ryman
- Designed by architect Hugh Cathcart Thompson in Victorian Gothic Revival style
- Became a celebrated venue for ballets, symphonies, and theater, known as the “Carnegie Hall of the South”
- Hosted famous acts like Charlie Chaplin, Harry Houdini, and the Metropolitan Opera
Grand Ole Opry Legacy
- Home of the Grand Ole Opry® from 1943 to 1974
- Linked forever to the rise of modern country and bluegrass music
- Legendary performers included:
- Johnny Cash
- Elvis Presley
- Patsy Cline
- Hank Williams
- Marty Robbins
- Earned the title “Mother Church of Country Music”
Modern-Day Ryman
- Underwent a major restoration in 1994 and reopened as a state-of-the-art performance hall
- Praised for its incredible acoustics and historic ambiance
- Hosted recent artists such as:
- Aretha Franklin
- Norah Jones
- ZZ Top
- Annie Lennox
Tours & Experiences
- Self-Guided Tours: Explore the exhibits and auditorium at your own pace
- Backstage Guided Tours: Step behind the curtain to see:
- Dressing rooms of legends like Hank Williams and Minnie Pearl
- “Ryman Alley”, where the Everly Brothers were discovered
- Backstage areas used by Elvis Presley and James Brown
- Backstage Tours run every hour and half-hour from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Record Your Own Song: Visitors can create a keepsake CD in the onsite recording studio with help from a professional engineer
Shops & Dining
- Opry Store: Offers a wide range of music-related merchandise, including:
- Books, apparel, collectibles, and home décor
- Bluebird Café at the Ryman: Features:
- Coffee, sandwiches, salads, desserts, and refreshing drinks
Plan Your Visit
- Website: Ryman Auditorium
- Address: 116 5th Ave North, Nashville, TN 37219
- Phone: 615-889-3060
Plan Your Trip