Ryman Auditorium

A downtown Nashville landmark steeped in history, the Ryman Auditorium was once the home of the Grand Ole Opry and still hosts performances from musicians that span a range of styles. The auditorium also offers tours, during which music fans can soak in the nostalgia and atmosphere of this legendary venue. The Ryman Auditorium was built as the Union Gospel Tabernacle and began hosting music soon after it opened in 1892. That air of reverence can still be seen today, from the rounded, church pew-like seating to the stained glass windows. Over the decades, a laundry list of famous acts have taken the stage, ranging from Harry Houdini and the Russian Ballet to Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash. Tours begin with a movie that tells the venue’s story, before visitors are invited to explore the hallowed hall and browse the chronologically placed cases of artifacts that detail the legendary musicians who have taken (and continue to take) the stage here. 

116 Fifth Ave. N., Nashville, Tennessee, 615/889-3060, ryman.com