Guided Backstage Tours

The guided tour is designed to provide an immersive experience that offers visitors more time, more access, more star power, and more stories from the Ryman’s rich music history.

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"If you're thinking about taking a tour, just do it and thank me later! My wife booked the tickets for us and we had a blast." 

Mark K.

 

Composite image of artists playing o the Ryman stage, statues at the Ryman, and guests taking a selfie during a tour

What's Included on the Guided Tour?

• Duration: 45 mins. Guided + 45 mins. Self-Guided

• Hear insider stories and secrets from the Ryman’s expert historians.

• Go backstage to explore artist dressing rooms, decorated with exclusive memorabilia*.

• See the all-new Opry 100 exhibit, featuring artifacts from legends like Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, and Dolly Parton. 

• Get a once-in-a-lifetime souvenir photo taken of you on the Ryman stage.

• See over 20 exhibits with items from influential performers on display.

• Experience the immersive “Soul of Nashville” theater.

• Get access to Rock Hall at the Ryman, a powerful installation with the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

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Opry 100: Explore the Opry's Legendary Ryman Roots

Step into the Opry’s legendary past at its most famous former home. Discover moments that shaped country music at Nashville’s most iconic venue—where history was made and where the future of country music continues to unfold.

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"Taking the guided tour was worth the extra $10. Seeing backstage really felt like a magic experience and our tour guide Alex was great. He was very enthusiastic and entertaining." 

Carolyn M.

 

Guests looking at display cases during a Ryman tour

See Current Exhibits

See star-studded exhibits featuring Johnny Cash, Taylor Swift, Dolly Parton, and more, handpicked for music fans who appreciate every note, every thread, and every lyric that made Nashville “Music City.”

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Peek Inside the Dressing Rooms

Besides the music greats that grace our stage, few get to explore the dressing rooms of the Ryman. On a guided tour, you get an up-close look at where your favorite performers get ready for an unforgettable show, night after night. Ryman historians lead tourgoers through these spaces, offering industry-insider secrets and stories.

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Get a Professional Photo on Stage

Step into the footsteps of entertainment greatness and smile for a professional photo on the Ryman stage. After the tour, pick up your print at the gift shop (for free!) and take it home to brag to your friends about your Ryman debut.

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"We saw a show at the Ryman while visiting Nashville and went back the very next day for a tour. WOW what a learning experience. The history of the building is amazing and getting to tour the legendary dressing rooms was so cool!" 

Daniel W.

 

What are the Current Exhibits?

The Ryman’s star-studded exhibits show off the impactful moments and memories artists – new and old – have made at the Ryman. Discover our all-new Opry 100 exhibit with exclusive artifacts and vignettes from artists like Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, and Dolly Parton. Slide into one of the Ryman pews, take in the grandeur of the architecture, and peer through the stained glass windows. You’ll understand why this is the soul of Nashville.

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What is Rock Hall at the Ryman?

Of the over 350 artists and individuals who have been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, more than 100 have also performed on the Ryman's legendary stage. The impactful tour feature – Rock Hall at the Ryman – celebrates and tells the story of those artists. The gallery, featuring artists like James Brown and Joan Jett, includes interactive videos and displays highlighting the iconic performances and accomplishments that cemented their place in Music City history.

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History of The Ryman

Built as a tabernacle in 1892, the Ryman hosted history-making performances and pop culture moments long before it became home to the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974. It was where country stars – like Patsy Cline and The Carter Sisters – were made and bluegrass was born. But Ryman Auditorium is not just a country music venue. Icons like Elvis Presley, Harry Styles, and Lizzo have taken this world-renowned stage.

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AVAILABILITY

The guided tours are available to the public on non-show days, from 10 AM to 4 PM.