Ryman Auditorium
The Ryman Auditorium, the 'Mother Church of Country Music,' offers legendary acoustics and a deep dive into music history.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds for tours
Ryman Auditorium
Best Time
Fewer crowds for tours

Highlights
Must-see attractions
The Ryman Auditorium, the 'Mother Church of Country Music,' offers legendary acoustics and a deep dive into music history.
"The feeling of being in a place where so many greats have performed brought me chills!!"
🎯 Book Ryman Tickets ASAP
Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your Ryman tickets well in advance for artists like Billy Strings.
🚶♀️ Guided Tour Recommended
For deeper history, opt for a guided tour. Backstage access and stories are invaluable.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Stage
Main Auditorium
Stand where legends like Elvis, Dolly Parton, and Johnny Cash performed. Feel the history and the music that echoes through this sacred space.

Mother Church of Country Music
Main Auditorium
Experience the spiritual atmosphere of this venue, originally a tabernacle, that birthed bluegrass and hosted the Grand Ole Opry.

Backstage & Dressing Rooms
Backstage Area (Guided Tour)
Get an exclusive peek behind the curtain, explore dressing rooms, and see memorabilia from countless iconic performances.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ryman Tickets Early
Tour Options & History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ryman Tickets ASAP
Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your Ryman tickets well in advance for artists like Billy Strings.
🚶♀️ Guided Tour Recommended
For deeper history, opt for a guided tour. Backstage access and stories are invaluable.
🪑 Seat View Check
Be aware of potential pole obstructions in certain seats. Check the seating chart carefully!
🎶 Feel the Music Vibe
The Ryman's acoustics are legendary. Prepare for music to vibrate through you!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ryman Tickets ASAP
Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your Ryman tickets well in advance for artists like Billy Strings.
🚶♀️ Guided Tour Recommended
For deeper history, opt for a guided tour. Backstage access and stories are invaluable.
🪑 Seat View Check
Be aware of potential pole obstructions in certain seats. Check the seating chart carefully!
🎶 Feel the Music Vibe
The Ryman's acoustics are legendary. Prepare for music to vibrate through you!
📸 Free Photo Op
Enjoy a complimentary photo with the famous microphone at the end of your tour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Ryman Auditorium for its incredible acoustics and profound historical significance, often describing the experience as 'spiritual' and a must-do for music lovers. The venue's intimate atmosphere and the chance to stand on the same stage as legends create lasting memories. While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some mention potential issues with obstructed views from certain seats and the fast pace of ticket sales for popular events.
"I was very fortunate yesterday in catching Louis CK and three other comedians at the Ryman. What an incredible show. Laughing that hard since the last time I saw him in 2013. The Ryman was definitely on my bucket list and it did turn out to be on that list legitimately. Happy to have the experience of being in the Ryman. Such important history there. All of the workers were just so kind. Touring the grounds was fantastic and I really enjoyed the experience. Highly recommend you visit the Ryman Auditorium!"
Uncle Bits
"We moved to Nashville 8 years ago and this was my first time at the Ryman. My wife has attended a concert and tour a few years ago but I wasn't able to go. Now that I'm retired we decided to attended the "Happy Together" concert on a Wednesday night. We had great seats (we also brought seat pads 😀) and loved the show! Such an awesome place and history that now I want to go back for the tour and attend many more events in the future!"
Kerry Beach
"We did the guided tour and it is well worth the $10 more than the self guided tour. You get to go back stage and see several dressing rooms, which was cool but the best part I thought, was the photographs on the walls from all the performances over the last 100 years. Hearing the stories from the guide about the artists was neat to hear. We had planned to do a different tour but we're able to get in this one instead and we're so glad we did. Great time."
Cheri Austin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ryman Auditorium is located downtown at 116 5th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37219. Many visitors find it convenient to park near Nissan Stadium and walk across the pedestrian bridge, especially if attending a show.
Public transportation options are available, and ride-sharing services are plentiful in the downtown area.Yes, there are several parking garages and lots near the Ryman Auditorium. Popular options include the Fifth + Broadway garage and the Nashville Music City Center garage. Be prepared for potential surge pricing on event nights.
Absolutely! The Ryman is centrally located in downtown Nashville, making it easily walkable from many hotels. Enjoy a stroll through the city before your tour or concert.
For concerts, arriving early is recommended to soak in the atmosphere and potentially grab merchandise. Some visitors suggest using ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles on busy event nights.
The Ryman is generally accessible. For specific needs regarding transportation or parking, it's best to contact the venue directly in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase Ryman tickets directly from the official Ryman Auditorium website, Ticketmaster, or at the Ryman box office. For popular shows, tickets can sell out quickly, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
Ryman Auditorium tour hours typically vary by season and day of the week, and are often extended on non-show days. It's best to check the official Ryman Auditorium website for the most up-to-date tour schedule and operating hours.
Self-guided tours are generally around $35, while guided tours, which offer backstage access and more in-depth historical information, are typically a bit more expensive, around $45.
Prices can vary, so check the official website for current rates.Yes, Ryman box office tickets are available, but for high-demand shows, it's advisable to purchase online in advance as they may sell out before you can get there.
The Ryman Auditorium schedule features a diverse range of concerts, from country and bluegrass to rock and comedy. You can find the latest Ryman Auditorium upcoming events and upcoming events at the Ryman on their official website.
🎫 🎚️ Onsite Experience
While the Ryman is known for great acoustics throughout, some seats may have obstructed views due to poles. It's crucial to check the seating chart carefully when purchasing Ryman tickets.
Generally, seats closer to the center and not directly behind a support column offer the best experience.During tours, photography is generally allowed, and you can even get a free photo with the iconic microphone!
However, for concerts, flash photography and professional recording equipment are usually prohibited to ensure the best experience for performers and audience members.The Ryman Auditorium is famously known as the "Mother Church of Country Music." It's a historic venue that was the original home of the Grand Ole Opry and has hosted countless music legends.
Yes, guided tours often include backstage access, allowing you to see dressing rooms and learn more about the venue's rich history.
This is a highlight for many visitors interested in the behind-the-scenes aspect.Arrive early to soak in the atmosphere, be mindful of seating arrangements (some seats have poles), and be prepared for the incredible acoustics.
The Ryman offers a unique and intimate live music experience.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, concessions are typically available for purchase during concerts, offering snacks and beverages. For a more exclusive experience, consider the Ford Lounge upgrade, which includes unlimited snacks and drinks.
Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the Ryman Auditorium. It's best to consume any food or drinks before entering the venue or purchase them from the onsite concessions.
The Ryman is located in downtown Nashville, offering a wide array of dining options from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. You can find everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine within walking distance.
Yes, the Ryman offers concessions, and for a premium experience, the Ford Lounge provides exclusive access to a lounge area with unlimited snacks and drinks.
Concession stands usually offer classic concert fare such as popcorn, hot dogs, nachos, and various beverages, including alcoholic options.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally permitted during Ryman Auditorium tours, allowing you to capture the historic architecture and memorabilia.
You can even get a free photo with the famous microphone!Typically, non-flash photography is allowed during concerts, but professional cameras with detachable lenses and video recording are usually prohibited. Always check the specific venue policy for the event you are attending.
The stage itself, the historic pews, the colorful stained-glass windows, and the memorabilia displays are all fantastic photo opportunities during a tour.
While personal photos are usually fine, be mindful of copyright and artist agreements regarding professional filming or extensive social media content creation during performances.
The official Ryman Auditorium website and their social media channels are great sources for high-quality, professional photos of the venue and past performances.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎶 Music History Buffs
🎟️ Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ryman's Storied Past
Even after the Grand Ole Opry moved to a larger venue, the Ryman continued to thrive as a concert hall, attracting a diverse array of artists from bluegrass pioneers to rock legends and contemporary pop stars. The venue's intimate setting and unparalleled acoustics create a unique connection between performers and audiences, making every show feel special. Visiting the Ryman is not just attending an event; it's stepping into a living museum of musical heritage.
Experiencing a Ryman Concert
When planning your concert visit, consider arriving early to explore the venue and perhaps grab some merchandise. Some attendees opt for premium experiences like the Ford Lounge, which offers exclusive access, unlimited snacks, and drinks, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the evening. Remember to check the seating chart carefully when purchasing Ryman tickets to avoid any potential obstructions, such as poles, that can affect the view from certain seats.
Ryman Auditorium Tours: A Deeper Dive
A significant highlight of any Ryman tour is the opportunity to stand on the iconic stage and imagine the legends who have stood there before. The walls are adorned with photographs spanning decades of performances, offering a visual journey through music history. Visitors also appreciate the free photo opportunity with the famous microphone at the end of the tour, a perfect memento of their visit. The Ryman's gift shop also offers a selection of merchandise, often with great prices and a wide variety of choices.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit