Delve into over 100 years of entertainment history in Nashville at the Ryman Auditorium. Browse museum exhibits, peak inside the dressing rooms and cut your own record in the recording studio. Watch performances by both emerging and internationally famous artists, ranging from bluegrass and country to hip-hop and soul genres.
The Ryman Auditorium dates back to 1892, when it opened as the Union Gospel Tabernacle and served as a stage for the no-nonsense evangelist Reverend Samuel Porter Jones. From 1943 to 1974, the venue was the location for the country music radio program The Grand Ole Opry. See a show in today’s venue, which has a seating capacity of more than 2,300. It takes its name from the original owner, businessman and riverboat captain Thomas Ryman. Past performers include the music legends Elvis Presley, Hank Williams and Patsy Cline.
Join a tour of the auditorium to experience its century-old past. Follow a chronicle timeline of its evolution and some of the most-revered shows. Browse a display of posters autographed by big-name showbiz stars and watch videos presented by Hollywood icons. Learn about the many television shows and movies that have been filmed here, including Coal Miner’s Daughter, Sweet Dreams and The Johnny Cash Show.
See the dressing rooms where performers wait anxiously before facing their expectant audiences. Snap a souvenir photo while you stand on the stage. Visit the venue’s studio and record your own version of classic country and pop songs.
Check the event schedule for a list of varied concerts and festivals. Choose from hundreds of shows per year. From late June until late July is the annual Bluegrass Nights festival.
Located in Downtown Nashville, the auditorium is easy to reach by foot and public bus. If you drive, use the valet parking service, available for most concerts or one of the nearby paid lots.
Paid self-guided and guided tours of the Ryman Auditorium are offered daily. Purchase tickets at the box office, which is open daily, or via the official website.
