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