Are you planning your first trip to “Music City”? If so, you need to visit the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. The building is home to the world’s longest-running radio show that runs every Friday (and sometimes on Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturdays). The show first started in 1925 and now continues to showcase new musical talent and superstars.
Pretty much every country singer you can think of has played at The Opry at some point, from Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Mumford & Sons, James Bay, Jonny Cash, Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton.
Located downtown Nashville, it is where bluegrass was born. The building is also referred to as the ‘mother church of country music.’
It is also famous for being one of the best performance halls in the world. Inside it seats 2,200 people on long wooden church pews.
These days you can sign up for daily tours of the landmark building, but performances are only held in the winter. For the rest of the year, you need to visit the Grand Ole Opry House, which is a short drive from the downtown core.
As someone who only enjoys pop country music, I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy my visit to the Ryman Auditorium. I love seeing live music, but I admit I was worried it would be too ‘twangy’ for my tastes.
The show was a mix of everything, so there was something for everyone. While I admit not all the performers were to my taste, – overall it was super entertaining and an experience I would do again.
The night I went, it was roughly 2 hours, with performances by Ricky Skaggs, The Whites, John Conlee, Mike Snider, Jenee Fleenor, Mark Wills, Connie Smith, Dusty Slay, Riders In The Sky, Sam Williams and
Charlie McCoy.
As it is a radio show, between the acts, you’ll be able to expect commercials, stage dancing and all sorts of other guest speakers.
You’ll want to get your tickets for The Ryman Auditorium in Nashville far in advance if you’re going to see a show. Ticket prices vary night-to-night, but you can expect approximately $50-120 per person. Meanwhile, tours of the building start at $25.
Looking for more ideas on what to do in Nashville? Make sure to check out my post on this super fun Nashville food tour.