The Ryman Auditorium is a National Historic Landmark and must see for anyone visiting Nashville. Most famous as the home of the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 — 1974, its history as Nashville's premiere theater and central gathering place started even before construction was complete in 1892. It is truly the cultural epicenter of Music City. Take the Self-Guided Tour where you'll discover the divine inspiration behind the building's construction as the Union Gospel Tabernacle in the 1880s in our welcome video.

"The best sound in town…maybe in the U.S.!"
-Chet Atkins

Explore its rich entertainment history and how the Ryman became known as the "Carnegie Hall of South" during the years when Caruso and Sousa performed, Jack Johnson boxed, Houdini escaped and so much more in the 5th Avenue vestibule timeline exhibit. Enjoy our two Grand Ole Opry exhibits and see what Dolly Parton and Hank Williams wore during the years country and bluegrass music were shaped on the famous stage earning the Ryman monikers "Mother Church of Country Music" and "Birthplace of Bluegrass".

"The most amazing place I've ever sung in…"
-Vince Gill

See video and rare photos from the Johnny Cash Show of the Man in Black with Bob Dylan and Louis Armstrong in the current "Johnny & June at the Ryman" exhibit. Listen to the "Voices of the Ryman" audio tour and hear Garrison Keillor and Marty Stuart share their Ryman experiences with you. On the tour, you'll also have the opportunity to have your picture taken on the stage graced by legends from Aretha Franklin and Annie Lennox to Zac Brown Band and ZZ Top.

"The greatest theatre in the world!"
-Coldplay

Take a guided Backstage Tour through dressing rooms dedicated to the stars of the Ryman's rich musical past including Minnie Pearl and Hank Williams. These same dressing rooms are used by all the biggest stars performing today from Brad Paisley to Bruce Springsteen. Look out on the famous "Ryman Alley" where the stars cross over to the honky tonks and the Everly Brothers were discovered by Mr. Guitar, Chet Atkins. Finally, stand in the wings where performers as varied as Katharine Hepburn, Elvis Presley and James Brown stood awaiting their time in the spotlights.

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