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Ryman Auditorium

The Ryman Auditorium is the most famous former home of the Grand Ole Opry (1943-1974), and the Opry show returns to the historic building a few times throughout the year for Opry Country Classics and Opry at the Ryman. The Ryman is also host to numerous concerts and events throughout the year.

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Upcoming Shows at Ryman Auditorium

Limited In-Person and Virtual Tickets On Sale This Friday for an Evening With Chase Rice on April 23.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – With nearly 2 million albums sold and more than 1.7 billion total streams, multi-Platinum entertainer Chase Rice will bring a special power acoustic show to the historic Ryman Auditorium on April 23 at 8 pm CT . Limited in-venue tickets start at $69. Fans around the world can tune in to the virtual concert experience that will bring the sounds of the historic Ryman Auditorium direct to their home. Tickets for the livestream are $15 in advance and $20 day of show. Both in-venue and virtual tickets go on sale at 10 am CT on Friday, Feb. 26, at ryman.com .

Rice has established himself as a powerful force in Nashville and beyond – yet he genuinely sees new release “ Drinkin’ Beer. Talkin’ God. Amen. ” as the launching pad for music that says what he wants to say, how he wants to say it. The track features Florida Georgia Line , reuniting the hitmakers who previously achieved breakout success together as co-writers of FGL’s Diamond-certified hit “Cruise.” Listen to the new song now available everywhere HERE .

The collaboration serves as another example of Rice’s desire to share new music with fans more frequently than traditional album cycles allow, as it follows four-song surprise project The Album Part I (featuring Top 10 hit “ Lonely If You Are ”) and seven-song follow up The Album Part II , both released last year. The series of new releases follows his sophomore album, Lambs & Lions, released with Broken Bow Records in 2017 and featuring the Double-Platinum, two-week chart topper “Eyes On You” – Rice’s first No. 1 as an artist and the most-streamed song of his career. Lambs & Lions followed Ignite the Night, which debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums and No. 3 on the all-genre chart, producing a pair of Top 5 hits; “Ready Set Roll” and “Gonna Wanna Tonight.” After supporting Kenny Chesney’s The Big Revival stadium tour, Rice has consistently sold out 2,500-3,000 seat venues on his own headlining tours.

PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED

DREW & ELLIE HOLCOMB Feb. 25 at 7:30 pm CST (Rescheduled from Feb. 14)

Experience a belated Valentine’s Day with Drew and Ellie Holcomb at the historic Ryman Auditorium on February 25. Drew and Ellie will share stories and songs for one night only. In-person sold out. Livestream available for $20. Tickets for Feb. 14 event will be honored for the new date.  ANDREW PETERSON April 5 at 7 pm CST Second Show Added at 3 pm CST

Celebrate Eastertide with Andrew Peterson, Taylor Leonhardt, and friends on Easter Monday. Limited in-person tickets are available for 3 pm and 7 pm shows. Tickets are $35. Livestream option will not be available for these shows. 

WHERE: Ryman Auditorium , 116 FIFTH AVENUE NORTH, NASHVILLE, TN 37219 

Ryman Auditorium strictly complies with safety regulations that include socially distanced seating, mandatory masks for all guests and staff, and enhanced cleaning practices. For complete details, seating chart and more information about the safety precautions or to purchase tickets, please visit ryman.com .

About Ryman Auditorium

A National Historic Landmark, Ryman Auditorium was built by Captain Thomas G. Ryman in 1892. Ryman Auditorium is a 12-time winner of the prestigious Pollstar Theatre of the Year award. The historic venue is well-known as the Mother Church of Country Music and is the most famous former home of Grand Ole Opry (1943-1974). The Ryman has been featured in numerous film and television projects including Coal Miner’s Daughter, The Johnny Cash Show, American Idol, Nashville, and more. While offering a diverse lineup and thriving concert schedule (with over 200 shows per year), the venue is also open for daytime tours year-round. A coveted under-play for many, her iconic stage has seen the likes of Bruce Springsteen, Mumford and Sons, and Tom Petty in recent years. Ryman Auditorium is owned by Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc. (NYSE: RHP), a Nashville-based REIT that also owns and operates the Grand Ole Opry, 650 AM WSM and Ole Red. For more information, visit ryman.com .

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The map below does not reflect availability. Seating charts reflect the general layout for the venue at this time. For some events, the layout and specific seat locations may vary without notice.

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Ryman Auditorium

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The Ryman Auditorium has always been famous as a hallmark tourist spot in Nashville. Ryman Auditorium offers several tour packages listed below. You can book your tour by checking out the Ryman tour page at this link .

Self-Guided Tour

You can book the experience to explore Ryman Auditorium including going on stage and discovering surprising artifacts, exhibits, and memorabilia.

• Highlights of the Self-Guided Tour include:
• Souvenir photos on-stage
• The “Soul of Nashville” Theater Experience
• Record your very own song in a working Recording Booth
• Experience the Hatch Show Print Gallery
• Discover the incredible historic 5th Avenue Vestibule
• Explore 8 star-studded exhibits

Backstage Tour

The Backstage Tour is your chance to see the Ryman in a way only performers get to see. You have the experience of the self-guided tours as well as exclusive access to dressing rooms that have rare vintage photos and priceless memorabilia. You’ll get to experience insider stories and tales that can’t be found anywhere else.

Because the Ryman hosts nightly concerts, backstage tours are limited and not always available. The Ryman recommends taking a self-guided tour on days where backstage tours are unavailable.

Proposal Package

This special package is a great way to surprise your significant other. It starts like a self-guided tour, but when the time is right you can make your way to the stage for a proposal that you will never forget.

The proposal package includes the following:

• Two self-guided tour tickets
• A commemorative photo of your proposal
• Lunch for two at Cafe Lula
• A special gift from the staff at Ryman Auditorium

Group Tours

For groups of fifteen (15) or more, you can enjoy group ticketing prices and service for backstage and self-guided tours or one of several Ryman on-stage performance series.

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Ryman Auditorium

Nashville Ryman Auditorium

Known colloquially as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” Ryman Auditorium began as the Union Gospel Tabernacle. Local entrepreneur Thomas Ryman built it as a permanent location for tent revival-style gospel meetings. The auditorium was also the site of secular gatherings like Helen Keller’s lectures, Fisk Jubilee Singers’ performances and WSM’s Grand Ole Opry. While a statue of Ryman is located outside this National Historic Landmark, a bronze tribute honoring Minnie Pearl and Roy Acuff is situated  inside the lobby. 

During the entertaining tours, guests can visit the historic dressing rooms and stand on the center stage.

Formerly the Grand Ole Opry House and the Union Gospel Tabernacle, Ryman Auditorium has been an iconic landmark in Nashville since it first opened its doors in 1892. A more than 2,300-seat entertainment complex, Ryman is known for its unsurpassable acoustics and is considered by many to be the city’s most popular venue, including hosting world-renowned performers and serving as a location for television and film productions. Today, in addition to the many concerts and events, guests can enjoy a variety of experiences at the Ryman, including tours, shopping and dining. While in Nashville, visiting the Ryman is a definite for those who wish to discover all they can about the roots of country music and the impact that this historic structure has had on the city.

A little bit of history

The brainchild of a prominent Nashville businessman, Thomas G. Ryman, the Ryman Auditorium was originally constructed in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle to provide a place for evangelist Reverend Sam Jones. It was Ryman’s dream to build a venue for Jones to project his voice and message to everyone and this Victorian Gothic Revival structure went on to do just that. In 1904, after Thomas Ryman passed away, it became known as the Ryman Auditorium.

In the beginning, the Ryman was the largest structure of its kind in the area, so it became the place to host community gatherings and political rallies and numerous entertainment events including operas, symphonies, ballets and theatrical productions. It wasn’t too long before the Ryman was hosting some of the world’s top performers and most important figures including Ignacy Paderewski, Marian Anderson, John Phillip Sousa, Roy Rogers, Harry Houdini, Charlie Chaplin, W.C. Fields, Katharine Hepburn, Bob Hope and Mae West.  The Ryman soon earned the nickname “Carnegie Hall of the South”.

The Grand Ole Opry Years

At the same time, the radio show, The Grand Ole Opry began to gain international fame and in 1943, when the show drew crowds too big for any other Nashville venue, the Ryman became its new home. For the following 31 years, the Ryman was the premier stage for the Grand Ole Opry’s live radio shows, featuring the likes of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Minnie Pearl, Patsy Cline, Roy Acuff and Hank Williams, to name just a few.

The Ryman is also credited with being the birthplace of Bluegrass. It was on the Ryman stage that Earl Scruggs and Bill Monroe took the stage together for the first time in December of 1945, belting out the first definitive sounds that would become known as Bluegrass.

After the Grand Ole Opry moved to its new location in 1974, the Ryman was still one of the city’s hottest attractions. And in 1994, the auditorium received a much-needed $8.5 million restoration that returned the National Historic Landmark back to its original magnificence. The renovation included removing all the original oak pews, restoring them and then reinstalling them. Also a part of the project was installing performer dressing rooms for legendary acts that had graced the Ryman stage, upgrading sound and lighting technology, central heat and air conditioning and a 14,000 square foot building for ticketing, concessions and a gift shop.

Today, the Ryman remains a top venue for performers and attracts visitors from all over the world. New and renowned artists including Aretha Franklin, the Zac Brown Band, Annie Lennox and others continue to wow crowds at this legendary Nashville icon.

What you’ll see and do

As a visitor to the Ryman, you’ll have the opportunity to see the stage that has been graced by so many famous musicians and performers. Guided tours are given every day from 9:30am to 3:30pm and include a look backstage, as well as the opportunity to learn more about the rich past of the historic Nashville venues. You can also enjoy a short film, The Soul of Nashville , that showcases the historical timeline of the Ryman. You can also take a self-guided tour and stop in at the Ryman’s recording studio to cut your own CD. You can select from an array of classic songs or bring in your own and the Ryman sound engineer will not only record your performance, they’ll give you your own labeled CD. A great souvenir!

A tour of the Ryman treats you to a look at numerous rare and collectible items and artifacts on display in these exhibits:

• Johnny and June
• Opry 40s and 50s
• Opry 60s and 70s

Guided Tours

See the dressing rooms of the stars of the Ryman’s past including Minnie Pearl and Hank Williams. View the wings where performers stood to await their turn to take the stage and see Ryman Alley where the stars cross over to the honky tonks and where the Everly Brothers were discovered.

Open daily from 9:30am to 3:30pm, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Soul of Music City Tour

Ryman Auditorium is a point of interest on this tour. Kick back, and cruise through Music City enjoying scenic nighttime views and classic Nashville tunes. On this tour, you’ll not only be taken to popular points of interest, but talented guides will dazzle you with their musical talents and extensive historical knowledge of the city. The tour  is a perfect choice for date night or a group outing and a definite must-do when in Nashville!

Eat, Drink and Shop

Café Lula is named in memory of Lula C. Naff who served as the Ryman’s manager during the 1920s and is credited for keeping the venue at the forefront of Nashville’s entertainment scene. The café serves up locally-inspired cuisine in a casual atmosphere. Open daily from 9am to 8pm (later on nights there are concerts), the café is an ideal spot to stop in and enjoy chicken, steak and seafood, salads, soups and chili.

The Ryman gift shop provides you with the opportunity to bring home a piece of this legendary Nashville venue. There are t-shirts, seat cushions and a variety of souvenirs as well as Hatch Show Prints, CDs, DVDs and books.

The Ryman Auditorium is located at 116 Fifth Avenue North in downtown Nashville.

Open daily from 9am to 4pm for tours. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Things to do nearby

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge

A legendary honky tonk bar, Tootsie’s is just a few footsteps from the Ryman. Here, you will enjoy live music, cold drinks and the iconic Tootsies Hall of Fame, including pictures and memorabilia of past and present country music stars that have visited the lounge and influenced country music through the ages.

Robert’s Western World

Located inside the original building of the Sho-Bud Steel Guitar Company that was owned by Shot Jackson and Buddy Emmons (two of the greatest steel guitar players in history), Robert’s Western World is steeped in history and is just a short walk from the Ryman Auditorium. One of Nashville’s famous honky tonks, Robert’s features live music, awesome cowboy boots and a unique menu, including fried baloney sandwiches and ice-cold beer.

Hatch Show Print

Located within the Country Music Hall of Fame museum, Hatch Show Print is the oldest print shop in the USA and the place where prints of the biggest names in country music are still being made. Here, you can see the original printing press that is still in use to create prints. You can purchase a variety of posters featuring stars from yesterday and today.

B.B. King’s Blues Club

Another famous live music venue in Nashville, B.B. King’s Blues Club boasts two stages featuring artists performing blues, Motown and classic rock. You’ll have the opportunity to dance, eat and sip your favorite cocktail. Their menu includes an array of Southern comfort foods influenced by the flavors of New Orleans, Mississippi and Memphis-style barbecue.

Tennessee State Museum

Learn about the history of Tennessee in this expansive museum located just a short walk from the Ryman Auditorium. In over 60,000 square feet, you’ll have the opportunity to view permanent and changing exhibits that showcase the historical journey of the state.

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Ryman Auditorium Schedule & Tours in Nashville, TN

Tour the Ryman Auditorium on this fantastic self-guided tour. It is the perfect way to enjoy the country music industry and enjoy the history of various legends. These Ryman Auditorium tours offer the most extensive look into the expansive history of this famous venue, which was originally the site of the Grand Ole Opry before it switched to the Grand Ole Opry House.

This is your chance to feel the history of the historic Ryman Auditorium, home to the Grand Ole Opry for more than 30 years. During the tour, you can head down to the legendary stage to stand underneath the lights and have a photo taken 'singing' in front of the Grand Ole Opry audience!

About the Soul of Nashville Movie

The tour begins with a film called, 'Soul of Nashville'. 'Soul of Nashville' is a fantastic opportunity to witness the collaboration of Darius Rucker, The Fisk Jubilee Singers, Sheryl Crow, and Vince Gill.

Then you'll be able to explore the fascinating memorabilia housed in exhibit-style cases along the back wall underneath the beautiful stained glass windows. Memorabilia includes everything from Marty Robbins' jacket to Minnie Pearl's famous hat and also features items from the Ryman's earlier years prior to the Grand Ole Opry.

You'll then be able to head upstairs for a view of the stage from the balcony, and be sure to make your way out into the balcony hallway to explore the photos, artifacts, and other items housed upstairs. Photos are welcome inside the Ryman, so be sure to bring along a camera! This is your chance to tour one of Nashville's favorites, the National Historic Landmark often called 'The Mother Church of Country Music.'

About the Exhibits

There are five different special exhibits that you'll see on these Ryman tours. With the self guided tour admission, guests will be able to uncover interesting facts about some of their favorite performers. Find awesome displays such as Workin' on a Building, Roots Run Deep, Inspired: 125 Years of Performance, Ryman Renaissance, and Showplace of the South. These exhibits each detail the history of the Ryman Auditorium and features stories narrated by Emmylou Harris, Ricky Skaggs, Trisha Yearwood, and Nicole Kidman.

About the Historic Ryman Auditorium Tour: Enjoy Amazing Ryman Tours by Checking Out the Ryman Auditorium Schedule

This historic performance venue has been a beloved Nashville landmark for decades. It was here that the world-famous Grand Ole Opry got its start. This huge auditorium features more than 2,000 seats and housed the Grand Ole Opry music show from 1943 until 1974. Currently, it hosts the Grand Ole Opry show Christmas at the Ryman each year. Some of the performers who have graced the Ryman stage include Johnny Cash, Foo Fighters, Coldplay, and Louis Armstrong. Guests will find an array of exhibitions, artifacts, and more giving a colorful history of the venue to its visitors.

Grab your Ryman Auditorium tickets today to experience an immersive tour and the Ryman's rock legacy and country roots in one of the most famous country music venues in the world. This country music hall is certain to impress with its backstage tour and interesting displays. When you are finished on the self guided tour, be sure to visit other notable downtown Nashville attractions. Whether you take one of the daily tours on a trolley, see a concert at the Grand Ole Opry House, or visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, your time in Music City will be a blast! Complete your Tennessee vacation with a hotel or resort booking.  

• How long does the activity last? Self-guided tour lasts about 2 hours.
• What amenities are available? There is a gift shop and a restaurant onsite.
• Is the activity handicap accessible? Both the Backstage and Self-Guided Tours are fully wheelchair accessible for patrons.
• For what ages is the activity appropriate? Great for all ages.
• Is parking available? There are paid parking lots and street meters around the Ryman.

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Ryman Auditorium in Nashville (A 2024 Visitor’s Guide)

by Taylor On A Trip | Dec 16, 2022 | Music , Tennessee , Uncategorized | 0 comments

The “Mother Church of Country Music”, the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville is a 2362-seat performance venue and cultural icon.

Once the home of the Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman Auditorium is a National Historic Landmark and a functional music venue to this day. It’s branded as the birthplace of bluegrass music and has hosted some of the most defining artists of all time, including Johnny Cash, June Carter, Minnie Pearl, Elvis Presley, Patsy Cline, and about a bajillion others.

I had the absolute honor of visiting the Ryman Auditorium on my recent trip to Nashville, Tennessee, and I was absolutely floored by the beauty of the building. To sit in the pews and stand on the stage was, by no exaggeration, a top music venue experience. 

In this article, I’ll dish the details on how to get the most out of your visit to this national historic landmark and country music mecca!

How to Visit the Ryman Auditorium

How to get to the ryman auditorium.

🚶‍♀️ Walk – The venue is located right in downtown Nashville on 5th Avenue N. It’s easily walkable from many Nashville hotels and the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum, the Frist Art Museum, and the National Museum of African American Music. 

🚗 Drive – You can drive to the Ryman Auditorium, although I will caution that parking in this area of Nashville can be tricky to come by and expensive when you do. If you’re looking to rent a car in Nashville, I recommend checking Discover Cars first.

🚕 Rideshare – If you’re coming to the Ryman from any other area of Nashville, then taking an Uber or Lyft (or taxi) is the way to go. Besides having a rental car for a couple of days, rideshares were my primary mode of transportation.

🚌 Bus – Nashville has a public transportation system called WeGo Public Transit, and there are bus routes that go near the Ryman. As with many American cities though, I’d say that taking public transit around Nashville won’t be the most time effective, but (besides walking) will be the most cost-effective.

Ryman Auditorium Tours

Taking a Ryman Auditorium tour is undoubtedly the best way to get a real scope of the building’s history. 

Because I was short on time and wanted some flexibility, I took this self-guided Ryman Auditorium tour and loved it. To start, you get led into a room to take in a fantastic holographic film (although it was more than just that) about the history of the Ryman and its significance. Then, although there are guides wandering around to give you history tidbits and help you out, you’re left to your own devices to discover the Ryman.

Also included in the price of your ticket is a photo of you and yours on the iconic Ryman Stage and a recording booth session.

If you have more time, then you can also take a guided backstage tour through the Ryman. This will give you more insights than the self-guided tour, although you have to show up at the designated time.

Ticket Reservations

If you want to catch a show at the Ryman Auditorium, then I’d recommend booking far in advance. There are always shows going on here, but it’s not a huge venue and it attracts top performers. You can see the latest event schedule here .

Also, if you’re not a huge country music fan, don’t fret, you can still catch a show. The Ryman hosts everything from ballet performances to punk music.

Hours and Details About the Ryman Auditorium

🕖 Hours: General hours are Monday through Sunday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. However, because it is primarily a concert venue, double-check if it’s open the day you’re planning to visit. They do sometimes implement special hours.

🖥️ Website: https://www.ryman.com/

📞 Phone: (615) 889-3060

📍 Address: 116 5th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37219, United States

History of Ryman Auditorium

Construction & early days.

Originally constructed as a tabernacle, the auditorium opened in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle. The endeavor was fronted by a Nashville businessman named Thomas Ryman.

While the auditorium’s early primary purpose was as a religious place of worship, in order to have a steady income and pay off debts, the auditorium began booking non-religious events as well.  

A woman who eventually became one of the music industry’s most iconic concert promoters, Lula C. Naff began booking non-religious events at the Ryman in 1904. She initially took on the role as a side project from her stenographer job, but then went full-time in 1914 booking speaking engagements, concerts, and even boxing matches. Although at the time she used the name “L.C. Naff” to thwart misogynistic prejudices in the industry. 

It was Naff who kept the mother church at the forefront of the industry in these early days, and her efforts put the place on the map. Not only was she winning landmark anti-censorship cases, championing women’s rights, and working towards racial diversity in Tennessee, but she was also booking some of the biggest entertainers in the world. Famous names such as Harry Houdini, Will Rogers, Charlie Chaplin, and way more performed at the Ryman during this period. Even US presidents gave speeches at the Ryman. 

Grand Ole Opry at the Ryman

Originally named the WSM Barn Dance, the Grand Ole Opry is a radio show that debuted in 1925. Today, it’s the longest-running radio show in United States history. The Grand Ole Opry wasn’t originally a stage show, but in the early days was an AM broadcast across 30 eastern states. 

Soon, the show began to draw in listeners who wanted to see it live, and the Opry realized it had to find a venue to accommodate. The Opry had a few homes around Nashville in its early days, but eventually Naff thought the Ryman would be the perfect home for the Opry, and it had its first show there on June 5, 1943. There it would stay for the next 31 years – selling out shows and making history.

Before 1963, the Ryman Auditorium didn’t have an owner per se. In fact, it was an independent place governed by a board of directors. Then, WSM, Inc. purchased the building and renamed it the Grand Ole Opry House. 

But not all that glittered was gold. Though some upgrades were made to the Opry House in the 60s to preserve the space, the building was quickly falling into disrepair. The Grand Ole Opry was drawing in more crowds than ever while failing to upkeep or update the building.

In 1969, The Grand Ole Opry announced its plans to move to a new custom-built auditorium that would be more comfortable for both performers and audiences. In 1974, the Grand Ole Opry officially moved to The Grand Ole Opry House (and took a circle of wood from the original stage with it).

Demolition Plans & Revival

After the Grand Ole Opry left the Ryman, the building sat unused and forgotten for the next twenty years. There were efforts to tear down the Ryman, although there was a ton of public blowback to those plans. It didn’t host performances but was still a beloved icon and tourist attraction.

Then, Emmylou Harris came to the rescue. In 1991 and 1992, the iconic Americana artist performed a concert series in the auditorium and released the recordings as “At the Ryman”. This revived interest in the building, and in 1993, Gaylord Entertainment began a full-scale renovation. Looking all shiny and new, the Ryman re-opened its doors to performances on June 4, 1994. 

After that, the Grand Ole Opry has occasionally returned to the Ryman for special performances and benefits. In fact, if you book ahead and plan for it, you still can catch a Grand Ole Opry show at the Ryman.

Ryman Auditorium Today

Today, the Ryman Auditorium is a fully functioning music venue. Though it has gone through a ton of renovations, many of the venue’s original features remain – including the oak pews.

Some of these renovations include a 2012 stage replacement, during which time they removed the 61-year-old stage and replaced it with Brazilian teak. They did leave an 18-inch trim of the original stage along the front edge, however. 

Then, in 2015, the mother church went through another big expansion and renovation. This included a larger lobby area, a gift shop, more bathrooms, and a concession area.

Tips for Visiting Ryman Auditorium

#1 – take a tour.

I said it above, but you gotta buy a ticket to see the Ryman. I don’t just say this because it’s a fun thing to do in Nashville, but because they literally won’t let you in the building unless you do.

Self-guided tour tickets can be purchased on-site, or you can book online here . If you want to take a guided tour, then you’ll have to book through the Ryman’s website. 

#2 – Experience the Recording Booth

Did you know that you can record a song at the Ryman Auditorium? It’s true – the Air Castle studio is located right in the auditorium, and recording a track here is included in the price of your ticket. 

The booth includes soundproofing, a studio speaker system for playback, and instruments. You can choose to sing one of the wide selection of popular songs on offer, read scripts from historical Opry shows, jam on the keyboard, or strum the guitar. You do not have to be a professional performer to do this, the experience is for everyone.

Plus, while you record, you’ll be standing on a piece of the 1951 stage. 

To sign up for the recording booth, head to the studio door to sign up for a time slot. Though the recording session is included in the price of your ticket, the digital copy of it is not, so set aside $15 if you want this as a keepsake. 

#3 – Buy Concert Tickets Well in Advance

The whole reason I’m writing this article is because the Ryman Auditorium is one of the most iconic country music venues in the whole world. So yeah, it’s a pretty popular place.

If you want to see a concert at the Ryman, then I do recommend booking well in advance. Plan your trip to Nashville around a concert here, and then let everything else fall into place. 

#4 – Don’t Expect Cozy Seats

As I mentioned above, the auditorium still features the original pews. Those on the main floor are from 1892 and the ones on the balcony are from 1897. They have been restored and kept in great condition, but you’ll still be sitting in wooden seats the whole performance. 

#5 – Just Bring the Basics

I didn’t know this until I went to Tennessee, but you won’t be able to bring large bags or backpacks into many venues and centers unless it’s a clear bag. Leave the excess stuff at your Nashville hotel and just have the basics on you.

🏨 Need a hotel? The Omni Nashville is located just steps from the Ryman. Or, for a more budget-friendly option, check out The Iris Motel (it’s farther away and has basic amenities but I personally stayed here and can recommend it.)

Fast Facts About Ryman Auditorium

• The first concert at the Ryman Auditorium was on May 4, 1892
• The Ryman Auditorium was originally a place of worship called the “Union Gospel Tabernacle”
• It was home to the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974
• It’s also known as the “Mother Church of Country Music”
• In the early 20th century, it was also referred to as the “Carnegie Hall of the South”
• Construction of the building took 7 years
• Bluegrass music was born here in 1945 when Earl Scruggs played the banjo with Bill Monroe & The Blue Grass Boys on WSM
• Johnny Cash met June Carter backstage at the Grand Ole Opry in 1956
• Emmylou Harris played historic shows at the Ryman that contributed to its revival
• The Johnny Cash Show was recorded in the auditorium
• All the pews are original and date back to the 1800s
• There are statues of Minnie Pearl and Roy Acuff in the lobby

FAQs About Ryman Auditorium

What is the difference between grand ole opry and ryman auditorium.

The difference between the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium is that the Opry is a radio show, while the Ryman is a music venue.

How long do you spend at Ryman Auditorium?

For a tour, I recommend spending at least an hour and a half at Ryman Auditorium. If you plan to see an entertainment performance at the Ryman, then you’ll need a few hours.

What is special about the Ryman Auditorium?

The Ryman Auditorium is known as the “mother church of country music”, and is the birthplace of bluegrass. It has hosted the Grand Ole Opry show, as well as some of entertainment’s most iconic names.

Is the Grand Ole Opry still at the Ryman?

The Grand Ole Opry is not still at the Ryman, although it does play one-off shows there from time to time. The Grand Ole Opry’s residency is at the Grand Ole Opry House in the Opryland Resort area of Nashville.

Thanks for reading my visitor’s guide to the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN! This is one of the most iconic music venues in the world and is a must-see in Nashville.

Have fun at the Ryman!

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Ryman Auditorium – tickets, prices, timings, what to expect

Nestled in the heart of Nashville, the Ryman Auditorium is an iconic musical landmark that has left a lasting mark on the American music scene. 

Ryman Auditorium has played a significant role in shaping the country music genre and has hosted various world-class performances and events.

Thomas G. Ryman was the mastermind behind the Ryman Auditorium, first built in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle.  

He envisioned a house of worship that was turned from a religious entity to one of the world’s most recognized music venues.

Legendary artists such as Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, and Bill Monroe graced Ryman Auditorium’s stage, making it the birthplace of bluegrass and a mecca for country music enthusiasts.

With its distinctive red pews and exceptional acoustics, the auditorium offers a warm and intimate setting, providing an unparalleled musical experience for both performers and audiences.

The venue’s rich cultural legacy has made it a cherished site for artists seeking to connect with their audiences on a deeply emotional level.

Today, the Ryman Auditorium welcomes visitors daily, offering guided tours that delve into the venue’s storied past. 

Tourists and music enthusiasts can walk in the footsteps of legends, stand on the revered stage, and experience the magic emanating from this iconic venue.

This article shares everything you need to know before booking tickets for Ryman Auditorium.

Top Ryman Auditorium Tickets

# Ryman Auditorium tickets # Nashville Sightseeing Day Pass

Table of contents

What to expect at ryman auditorium, where to book tickets, how do online tickets work, cost of ryman auditorium ticket, ryman auditorium tickets, how to reach ryman auditorium nashville, best time to visit ryman in nashville, how long does the tour take, faqs about ryman auditorium.

On your visit to Ryman Auditorium, prepare to be impressed by Ryman’s remarkable architecture. 

The blend of Victorian and neoclassical styles creates a unique and aesthetically pleasing atmosphere that returns to a bygone era.

The first stop on the tour is the “Soul of Nashville,” a state-of-the-art theater experience.

The theater uses special effects, holograms, and archival footage to introduce the Ryman Auditorium’s 125-year history, with plenty of country stars along the way, including Darius Rucker, Sheryl Crow, The Fisk Jubilee Singers, and Vince Gill.

Following the presentation, continue through the Ryman Auditorium’s exhibits; short films are hosted by Emmylou Harris, Marty Stuart, Nicole Kidman, Ricky Skaggs, Robin Roberts, and Trisha Yearwood.

The exhibits cover everything from the early days of country music performance to contemporary stars: visit Workin’ on a Building, Showplace of the South, Mother Church of Country Music, Inspired: 125 Years of Performance, and Ryman Renaissance.

As you explore the auditorium, you will notice the exceptional acoustics that have made the Ryman famous.

You can catch a live performance at the Ryman, depending on your visit. 

The auditorium continues to host concerts, shows, and special events, so check the schedule in advance to see if any performances align with your visit. 

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Tickets for the Ryman Auditorium are available online in advance or at the attraction.

To ensure a hassle-free experience, we suggest booking your tickets online. 

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the venue.

When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the attraction’s ticket counters.

Because some attractions sell a limited number of tickets, booking early helps avoid last-minute disappointment.

Go to the Ryman Auditorium ticket booking page , and select your preferred date and number of tickets to buy.

You will receive a confirmation in your email at the time of booking.

Your tickets will be held at the theater box office for collection on the day of the self-guided tour. 

You can present the voucher and a photo ID in exchange for your tickets.

Tickets for Ryman Auditorium cost US$36 for all visitors.

You can book tickets for up to 15 people at one time.

Take a self-guided tour of Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, known as ‘The Mother Church of Country Music.’ 

Discover five new exhibits about the musical heritage of the Ryman Auditorium, each of which is introduced by a celebrity host in the video. 

This self-guided Ryman Auditorium tour allows you to enjoy Nashville country music independently, with flexible start times throughout the day.

Visitors to the auditorium get souvenir photo opportunities on the stage.

You can enjoy the “Soul of Nashville” intro movie, browse through the Hatch Show Print gallery, and enjoy the many artifacts from your favorite artists.

The auditorium is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

Only service animals are allowed.

Ticket Price: US$36

Save up to 40% on 30+ Nashville attractions and tours with the Nashville Sightseeing Day Pass . Enjoy up to 58% off admission prices at numerous exciting family attractions.

Ryman Auditorium is opposite Tootsies Orchid Lounge.

Address: 116 Rep. John Lewis Way North, Nashville, TN 37219. Get Directions .

The live music venue can be reached by car or public transportation.

The nearest bus stop is 5th Ave N & Commerce St NB , with bus number 64 available. Take a 3-minute walk to reach the music venue.

4th Ave N & Commerce St SB is only 2 minutes from the Ryman Auditorium. Take bus numbers 6 and 64 to reach the bus stop.

Riverfront is the nearest train station. Board train number 90, get off at Riverfront, and walk for 5 minutes to reach the Ryman Auditorium. 

You can rent a cab or drive to Ryman Auditorium Nashville.

Launch Google Maps and get started!

Self-parking for all Ryman events is available directly across the street at Fifth + Broadway, 179 Rep. John Lewis Way N, Nashville, Tennessee 37219.

Numerous parking lots are also available near the auditorium.

Ryman Auditorium is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm.

You can visit the auditorium any time during opening hours, irrespective of any specific show timings.

The best time to visit Ryman Auditorium is when they open for the day at 9 am.

The crowd is less, and you can take the tour at your own pace.

Weekends are usually busy; if you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting the auditorium during the weekdays.

The venue hosts concerts and events throughout the year featuring various musical genres.

If your primary goal is to attend a live performance at the Ryman, booking tickets well in advance is advisable.

The duration of the tour of Ryman Auditorium is around 1 to 2 hours.

During your tour, stroll through the historic venue, learn the captivating stories about its past, the legendary artists who performed there, and the pivotal role the Ryman has played in American music history.

Here are some questions visitors usually ask before visiting the Ryman Auditorium.

The Ryman Auditorium is often called the “Mother Church of Country Music” and is regarded as the birthplace of bluegrass music.  It gained fame as the home of the Grand Ole Opry. This renowned radio show played a significant role in popularizing country music and introducing many legendary artists to the world.

While a guided tour is the most comprehensive way to explore the Ryman Auditorium, you can attend live performances, concerts, and events without a tour.

The Ryman Auditorium occasionally hosts special exhibits showcasing music memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts of its rich musical heritage. The venue has also implemented interactive displays and technology to enhance the visitor experience.

The Ryman Auditorium regularly hosts concerts, live shows, and special events featuring diverse musical genres.  You can experience performances by both emerging artists and world-renowned musicians.

Only service animals are allowed in Ryman Auditorium.

Regular bags are allowed. However, oversized bags are not allowed.

Cameras are allowed only during self-guided tours of the Ryman Auditorium. Cameras, however, are not permitted during the backstage tour.

Items that are not allowed inside Ryman Auditorium include weapons, oversized bags, backpacks, outside food and beverage, cans, bottles, alcohol, drugs, laser pens, masks, laptops, musical instruments, video cameras, monopods, tripods, audio recording devices (unless special permission is granted or “taper” tickets are offered to the ticket buyer) and cameras with telephoto or zoom lenses.

Smoking is prohibited in all areas of the Ryman Auditorium.  You can smoke outside the building in designated smoking areas.

Yes, Ryman Auditorium is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Ryman Auditorium provides complimentary wheelchair escorts to guests with special needs when requested during shows.

Sources # Ryman.com # Wikipedia.org # Tripadvisor.com The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

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This article was researched & written by

Akanksha Choudhary

Her travel list includes many must-see locations and adventures spread worldwide. At the slightest opportunity, she packs her bags and heads off to different places to discover new cultures. Since she doesn't like surprises during travel, she always prepares ahead and adheres to schedules. She favors vacation spots where it is possible to have fun without spending a fortune. Favourite Cities: Amsterdam, Brussels, Istanbul

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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Mitski kicks off four-day Ryman residency in Nashville with theatrical indie concert

Walking up to Nashville's Ryman Auditorium on Wednesday night, large words projected on the side of the building said: "Mitski Ryman Residency, Four Nights Sold Out."

And on her first night of performances on April 10, the indie darling dazzled on stage with a highly choreographed and precise show.

The night featured a seven-part band with thumping upright bass and spacey pedal steel, all accompanying Mitski's soaring, silk-like vocals and performance art movements.

The 33-year-old singer, born Mitsuki Miyawaki, has become one of indie-alternative music's most-listened to artists over the past decade. She currently has over 35 million monthly listeners on Spotify, a stat that landed her in the platform's top 100 most-streamed artists worldwide at the end of last year.

The Nashville resident is known for her hits "My Love Mine All Mine," "Washing Machine Heart" and "First Love/Late Spring." She's released seven albums, with her latest "The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We" releasing in September.

Mitski's solo albums aren't her only projects. In November 2023, the news dropped that she is slated to write lyrics and music for a  Broadway adaptation of "The Queen's Gambit."

For those unfamiliar with Mitski, she sounds like a mix of Fiona Apple, Lana Del Rey, Japanese Breakfast and Phoebe Bridgers. Mitski's voice has a clean, raw ring and an impressive vocal range.

Mitski's Nashville roots, her move to Music City

The singer-songwriter moved to Nashville in 2020 and worked to produce her 2022 album "Laurel Hell" during the pandemic.

According to Vulture , Mitski moved to Music City because she wanted to live in a place that wasn't Los Angeles or New York, but still had access to music studios.

Then, she went on to create her most recent album at Nashville's Bomb Shelter Studio and Los Angeles' Sunset Sound with producer Patrick Hyland.

And now, Mitski's "The Land is Inhospitable and So Are We" Tour brings her to her home city for a four-day residency before heading to the U.K. at the end of April. After her time in Nashville, Mitski will tour through Europe before returning to the U.S. for more shows.

Before Mitski hit the stage, opener Sarah Kinsley performed. On Thursday, Mitski's opener will be Sunny War, on Friday it will be Julia Jacklin, and on Saturday, Cowboy Junkies.

Then Mitski entered the stage with her opening song "Everyone." She wore a simple white button down, black pants and jazz shoes.

As she walked on stage, she sang and strolled around a curtain that made a column center-stage. She wrapped around the back of the backlit curtain, which dramatically showed her shadow.

Fans screamed as the curtain dropped before she went into second song "Buffalo Replaced."

From there, the audience was fully locked in to her whimsical, musical storytelling. In fact, Mitski rarely interrupted her show to address the Nashville crowd throughout the evening. Once, she praised the new thriller movie "Monkey Man," another time she urged the audience to adopt shelter cats in Nashville.

Here's are some of the highlights from night one of Mitski's Ryman shows.

Mitski's hypnotizing movements, theatrical and bizarre

The way Mitski moved around the Ryman stage was hypnotizing. The sold-out crowd was locked in to her every step.

Her choreography felt heavily influenced by "Cabaret" choreographer Bob Fosse, featuring his distinct, old-school Broadway moves with turned-in knees, jazz hands and curved shoulders.

Mitski isn't the only big performer to invoke Fosse. Just last month, pop star Olivia Rodrigo's Nashville tour stop featured choreography infused with strong Fosse influence.

Sometimes Mitski would mirror her lyrics to her movements. For "I Love Me After You," Mitski performed a morning routine, acting out the steps of her self-care regimen. She sang, "Brushing my hair naked / Spritz my face with toner / Splash water on my neck, I'm laughing in the mirror," all the while performing her matching movements.

During song "Heaven," Mitski waltzed with a spotlight, holding it as if the beam of light was her dance partner. It was a captivating visual display.

To sum up Mitski's performance is no small task; she's doll like, almost like her limbs are being pulled, with immense precision, by a puppeteer holding the strings of a marionette.

But she isn't always so clean in her movements. Sometimes she thrashes, twitches, collapses in a puddle on the floor. Other times, it's like she's in a Vaudeville act. The movements are campy, exaggerated with big facial expressions.

At some points, she drags chairs around to use as props, like actors in an avant-garde theatre performance may use stage blocks to fill in as a variety of items or fixtures.

These elements of Mitski's performance are not spontaneous or unplanned; Mitski has done her homework on performance art and theatre.

At the end of 2023, Mitski posted on Instagram that she was working with choreographer Monica Mirabile on her upcoming tour, who encouraged her to be present in the moment. Mitski took the message as encouragement to have fun on this tour.

"I’m really looking forward to touring next year," Mitski said on Instagram , "To showing up on stage with my entire weird self each day (and listen…it’s going to get pretty weird), and to have some serious fun!"

Mitski's work with Mirabile, a performance artist as well as choreographer, shines through as a central part of the show.

Mitski, too, has studied up on theatre by reading Antonin Artaud—a major French avante-garde artist— Jerzy Grotowski, one of the theorists credited with creating experimental theatre, and former Royal Shakespeare Company Director, Peter Brook.

Songs 'Valentine, Texas' and 'I Bet On Losing Dogs'

The song "Valentine, Texas" featured running upright bass and sparkly percussion. Mitski's band shone on this tune with a mid-way switch up.

Suddenly, the tune's calm, somber nature turned to a full, electric-booming raucous. The song's intense turn was accompanied by pink lights and a spiral shining on Mitski as she sang and danced.

The next song, "I Bet On Losing Dogs," was equally as enthralling. Mitski crawled around on all fours with her tongue out as she sang, "Will you let me, baby, lose / On losing dogs."

Mitski's biggest hit, 'My Love Mine All Mine'

Mitski's biggest hit, "My Love Mine All Mine," was met with applause when the crowd heard the intro.

Shiny mirror fragments dropped from the Ryman's ceiling and reflected onto the stage as red and orange lights washed over Mitski.

Mitski sang, "'Cause my love is mine, all mine / I love mine, mine, mine / Nothing in the world belongs to me / But my love mine, all mine, all mine."

The Encore: 'Nobody' and 'Washing Machine Heart'

Mitski ended her set with songs "Nobody" and "Washing Machine Heart."

Upon entering back to the stage with 2018 hit "Nobody," the crowd shouted lyrics, "My God, I'm so lonely / So I open the window / To hear sounds of people," as pink beams washed over the stage. The dancey tune built momentum, and when the chorus hit, the audience sang alongside Mitski, "Nobody, nobody, nobody."

Mitski ended the night with "Washing Machine Heart" starting on the floor as she pulsed her hands and legs simultaneously. She sang, "Toss your dirty shoes in my washing machine heart," on a blue-lit stage.

After her final song, the crowd gave a standing ovation.

"Thank you, thank you, thank you," Mitski said humbly after bowing to the Nashville crowd.

Tomorrow night, she'll do it all again.

To learn more about Mitski and her Ryman residency, head to mitski.com .

Mitski's Nashville Set List on April 10, 2024

Buffalo Replaced

Working for the Knife

Valentine, Texas

I Bet on Losing Dogs

Thursday Girl

I Love Me After You

First Love/Late Spring

I Don’t Like My Mind

My Love Mine All Mine

Last Words of a Shooting Star

Pink in the Night

I’m Your Man

I Don't Smoke

Bug Like an Angel

Love Me More

Encore: Nobody, Washing Machine Heart

Ryman offers new exhibition celebrating Elvis' legacy with venue

E lvis Presley's lone Oct. 2, 1954, appearance on the Ryman Auditorium stage during the Grand Ole Opry is being honored in "From Memphis to The Ryman," a new exhibition at the "Mother Church" of country music.

The exhibit features an audio tour narrated by Matthew Ramsey, the songwriter and lead singer of Old Dominion, Academy of Country Music and Country Music Association award-winners.

Ramsey says he feels kinship to Elvis in how the "I Was On a Boat That Day" performers expanded the presentation and sound of country music's traditions — especially in venues like the Ryman — "didn't fit the mold of the times" and forced them to feel "(uncomfortably) squeezed into spots."

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He recalls Old Dominion's 2014 Opry debut as likely similar to Elvis' six decades prior. He felt, "Here goes nothing — we have people who hate and love us equally and when I get out there, we could quickly be struck by lightning. Like Elvis, we didn't bring the house down but weren't booed off the stage."

Famously, Presley's jump blues-style rendition of Bill Monroe's bluegrass favorite "Blue Moon of Kentucky" only received a tepid reaction.

However, he was never invited back to the Opry and never again played at Ryman Auditorium.

The exhibition highlights what preceded and followed Elvis' single Opry moment.

That includes unique artifacts, including the 1954 contract between Presley and Sun Records and a royal blue suit worn by Presley, plus items belonging to those present for Elvis' Opry debut, including Sun Records chief Sam Phillips and performers Hank Snow and Monroe. Also, recollections and pieces from Presley's band's lead guitarist, Scotty Moore, and double bass player, Bill Black, are revisited in artifact displays.

"Elvis' moment highlights how good music, regardless of genre or sound, always stands the test of time. That's similar to how the Ryman, regardless of whatever is happening on Lower Broadway, remains a part of how Nashville progresses. As the city and its constantly evolving core of musicians continue to journey ahead, exhibitions like these can serve as important anchor points for both history and the future," Ramsey says.

"The Ryman is full of history and stories like this, and it's great to be a part of telling the story of someone who's had such a tremendous impact on music and culture, not to mention my own personal musical journey. I'm honored to narrate this incredible exhibit marking the 70th anniversary of Elvis' historic Opry debut at the Ryman."

"On behalf of the Ryman, I want to extend a special thank you to the Sam Phillips Family, Sam Phillips Recording Service, Graceland, Matthew Ramsey of Old Dominion, and Peter Guralnick, who all played a part in bringing this story to life in a way it deserves to be told," added the Ryman's general manager, Gary Levy.

Entry to "From Memphis to the Ryman" is included in all daytime tour tickets at the Ryman.

For more information, visit www.ryman.com .

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Ryman offers new exhibition celebrating Elvis' legacy with venue

GALLERY: New Elvis Presley exhibit unveiled at historic Ryman Auditorium

by Sydney Keller

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — Nashville's beloved music venue, the Ryman Auditorium, has announced a new Elvis Presley exhibit.

The exhibition, "From Memphis to Ryman," commemorates 70 years since Presley's only Grand Ole Opry performance at the Ryman on Oct. 2, 1954.

Presley's historic performance is revisited through a chain of recollections, photographs and artifact displays. Presley was joined alongside lead guitarist Scotty Moore and double bass player Bill Black during the 1950s performance.

The exhibitions centerpiece is storytelling of Presley's infamous appearance, narrated by Old Dominion's Matthew Ramsey.

“The Ryman is full of history and stories like this, and it's great to be a part of telling the story of someone who's had such a tremendous impact on music and culture, not to mention my own personal musical journey,” said Ramsey. “I’m honored to narrate this incredible exhibit marking the 70th anniversary of Elvis's historic Opry debut at the Ryman."

Special artifacts brings guests through the life and legacy of the renowned artist, including the 1954 contract between Presley and Sun Records that helped his career take off.

Entry to “From Memphis to the Ryman” is included in all daytime tour tickets at the Ryman. You can find more information here .

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• Date & Time Oct 28 , 2024 7:30 PM
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• Ticket Pricing $40.00 - $125.00

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Venue information.

Ryman Auditorium

Ryman Auditorium, located at 116 Rep. John Lewis Way North, in Nashville, Tennessee, is one of the most celebrated venues in modern music. Built in 1892, the historic 2,362-seat live performance venue is the most famous former home of the Grand Ole Opry and is revered by artists and music fans for its world-class acoustics. A bucket list moment for both fans and artists alike, her iconic stage has hosted performers from across genres, such as Elvis Presley, Bruce Springsteen, Charley Pride, Loretta Lynn, Johnny Cash, Harry Styles, Wu-Tang Clan, Lizzo, and thousands more. While offering a diverse lineup and thriving concert schedule with over 200 shows per year, the venue is also open for daytime tours year-round. Along with best-in-class production technologies and livestream capabilities, the Ryman has been named  Pollstar ’s Theater of the Year for 13 years through 2021.

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