Ryman Auditorium is a historic music hall in downtown Nashville, at 116 Rep. John Lewis Way N, a short walk from Broadway. Built as the Union Gospel Tabernacle, it later became the Grand Ole Opry’s home from 1943 to 1974. Today, you can tour the auditorium and its music exhibits or attend a live show. Look for the wooden pews, stained glass and stage, where a photo opportunity is available during the tour. Its clear acoustics and long history give music fans plenty to explore, even if country is not your main genre.
From tabernacle to music hall
The building opened in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle, a religious gathering place built under the direction of Nashville businessman Thomas G. Ryman. Its original purpose still shapes the experience of being inside: the hall has wooden pews, rather than conventional rows of padded theater seats.
The venue became the Grand Ole Opry’s home in 1943. The radio show moved elsewhere in 1974, but the auditorium continued as a performance space. It was renovated in 1994 and remains active, with concerts and other events across musical genres.
What to see on a tour
A self-guided visit includes a short introductory film about the Ryman and its place in the Grand Ole Opry’s history. You can then walk through the auditorium and museum exhibits, which include photographs and memorabilia connected to past performances. A stage photo opportunity is available as part of the visit.
Backstage tours provide another way to learn about the building and step onto the stage. Check tour details and book ahead if you have a particular date in mind. The auditorium also has a recording booth where visitors can record a song.
The Grand Ole Opry years
The Ryman’s association with the Grand Ole Opry is central to its place in Nashville’s music history. The radio program began in 1925 and moved to the auditorium in 1943, where it stayed until 1974. During those years, the Ryman became closely linked with the spread of country music beyond the region.
The stage has also hosted performers from outside country music, and the venue continues to present a range of live events. That mix makes a tour worthwhile even if you are more interested in the building’s story than in one particular style of music.
Planning a concert visit
A show gives you a chance to hear the hall in use, while a tour focuses on its history and spaces. If both appeal, you can plan a tour and a performance for the same day, subject to the event and tour schedule.
The original wooden pew seating is part of the auditorium’s character, but it is not padded and rows can feel close together. Bring a payment card if you plan to buy a drink: cash is not accepted for purchases at the venue.
Häufige Fragen
Where is Ryman Auditorium?
It is at 116 Rep. John Lewis Way N in downtown Nashville, a short walk from Broadway.
Can you tour Ryman Auditorium?
Yes. You can take a self-guided tour with an introductory film and museum exhibits. Backstage tours are also available, and booking ahead is advised.
Can you take a photo on the Ryman stage?
A stage photo opportunity is available during a tour.
What is seating like at a Ryman concert?
The auditorium has wooden pew seating. The benches are unpadded, and rows can feel close together.
