Welcome to Ryman Auditorium, alternatively named, "The Mother Church of Country Music." It's bold, beautiful, and holds entertainment history inside its Late Victorian Gothic style walls. The auditorium has been home to bands, operas, public rallies, circuses, symphonies, and more since 1904. It's a tourist destination for both concerts and tours.
Parking and public transportation to Ryman Auditorium
There are many parking lots surrounding the Ryman, ranging in price from $5 to $25 depending on the day and event. Street parking is also available and free after 6 p.m., but limited. The public bus line makes multiple stops near the auditorium and rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft consistently locate themselves near the venue.
Getting tickets at Ryman Auditorium
It's highly recommended to purchase your tickets as far in advance as possible. Shows sell out fast, due to the popularity of the acts and auditorium. You can secure tickets to the concerts via phone, online, or at the box office. A handling fee is charged on all ticket sales purchased over the phone and online.
Types of concerts at Ryman Auditorium
You can see almost any genre performed at Ryman Auditorium, from bluegrass to jazz to rock and roll, to pop icons like the American Idol Tour. Each one is bound to be captivating and entrancing, due in part to the room's impeccable audio.
Other places to visit near Ryman Auditorium
Because of it's downtown location, you are just a short walk away from countless honky tonk bars like the famous Tootsie's, fine dining, Country Music Hall of Fame, renowned coffee shop Crema, and the delicious and family-friendly Mike's Ice Cream.
Where to say near Ryman Auditorium
Book a night at a hotel downtown if you want to be able to walk to the auditorium. But if you're looking to save money and see other sights too, head just a few miles down Broadway to one of the many hotels on West End Avenue.
Insider tips for visitors to Ryman Auditorium
If you can't stay for a show, sign up for a tour of the historic venue. It's well worth the price of a self-guided ($20 or less) or guided (under $30) tour.
Author's bio: Rebecca Cicione has lived in Nashville for four years. She works in the nonprofit and music industries and her favorite place to be is anywhere outdoors.
In 1925, it was just a radio broadcast. Now, it's a venue in Nashville that showcases some of country music's greatest entertainers, giving visitors of all ages access to the top stars. The Grand Ole Opry also hosts other shows, providing something for every taste.
Parking and public transportation at Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry shares a parking lot with the Opry Mills Mall. There are an ample number of spaces, but walking will be required. The venue is only 8 miles from Nashville International Airport, and accessible via shuttle or taxi directly from the airport.
Getting tickets at Grand Ole Opry
For most events, tickets can be purchased via the Grand Ole Opry box office, Ryman Auditorium box office, over the phone at 1-800-see-opry, or at Opry.com. Select events offer ticketing options through Ticketmaster. Varying fees and taxes apply.
Types of concerts at Grand Ole Opry
There's something for every music lover here. From classics like Reba to modern country like Carrie Underwood and rock n' rollers Paramore, the opry prides itself on its variety of shows. The famous Grand Ole Opry show groups together country acts for an unforgettable night of talent and entertainment.
Other places to visit near Grand Ole Opry
The Gaylord Opryland Hotel is a popular destination for visitors, offering fine dining and seemingly endless indoor gardens and attractions. If you're there near Christmas, view the hotel's spectacular lights and decorations, ice skating, and snow slide. For an old-fashioned country bar experience, head to Nashville Palace after you enjoy the city's best catfish at Cock of the Walk.
Where to stay near Grand Ole Opry
There are multiple hotels within walking distance, including the famous Gaylord Opryland Hotel. For a more affordable, but less extravagant option, stay at the Inn at Opryland just across the street. Or if you plan to spend time in downtown Nashville, explore options closer to the city.
Inside tip for visitors to Grand Ole Opry
Take a tour. You can take a daytime, post-show, or VIP tour of the historical opry house. Stand on the stage, see the dressing rooms, witness the beautiful empty room, and imagine what it was like for country music greats like Dolly Parton.
Author's bio: Rebecca Cicione has lived in Nashville for four years. She works in the nonprofit and music industries and her favorite place to be is anywhere outdoors. You can follow her travels on Instagram and Twitter.
