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    Ryman Auditorium

    4.3 (767 reviews)
    ModerateMusic Venues
    Closed 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

    Ryman Auditorium Photos

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    Recommended Reviews - Ryman Auditorium

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    Christian E.

    I enjoyed this a lot more than I expected! It was interesting without being overwhelming like the Country Music Hall of Fame. You start in a very cold room learning about the history of the auditorium before going on your self paced tour. I was surprised to see stuff from Jim Henson & Harry Houdini in one of the rooms. I liked the photo circle by the stairs that you could take pics and email to yourself. You get to go up the stairs to the stage and have your picture taken (included in the price of the ticket). Most places charge an extra $30+ for pictures, and they allowed us to do a group pic and an individual one. The auditorium seemed intimate where every seat was perfect. They have a large gift shop as well.

    Stage and Microphone
    Angela M.

    My husband and I did the VIP tour with our guide Katie. We were the only two on this tour or normally 10. We started in the VIP lounge. I loved the memorabilia from Houdini's performance there. The dressing rooms were themed with tones of photos of Ryman guests. We had an enjoyable time. The tour includes a picture at the stage behind the mic. We received a free beverage and each of us got a print bill / sign (a poster with an artist name, date & time at the Ryman). We also got to keep our VIP lanyards. It was truly an enjoyable time with a look back in history. Will

    View of the stage.
    Mike A.

    We did a self guided tour. I thought it was worth it, but I wish I planned ahead and had a guided tour to go deeper into the history.

    VP Harris on Ryman stage
    Heather F.

    I love the Ryman & have been to many shows here! The sound & views can be good, but you'll want to choose your seats wisely. The signature pews are unique, but it can get cramped & feel uncomfortable. The staff is always helpful & cheerful, so you feel welcome soon as you arrive. There are drinks & snacks, but grab food ahead of the show if you're hungry.

    Stage looking out
    Richard S.

    A must visit in Nashville- we took a private tour that took us behind the scenes and learned the history of this historic building. Also sat in stage rooms for performers such as Jonny Cash, Ringo Starr and Ray Charles.

    Queen Trisha.
    Shelby Z.

    I did not even know that this venue existed until coming here recently for a concert. In fact, I'm baffled that I never noticed it being right on Broadway! It is a small venue, but the kind of place that you can sit anywhere and have a great view. It probably was a renovated church, because that is exactly what it looks like on the inside and out. The seating is also pew-style, which I would not be a fan of in a crowded setting. It takes no time to get in and out, up and down, and to and from your seat in this place. It makes everything pretty convenient.

    Marcy F.

    This was a huge bucket list check off for me to go here!!! We got tickets to see Clint black. We loved the feeling of being in here and sitting in the pews. We couldn't find tickets together when we bought them. A extraordinary kind lady offered to change seats with me so my friend and I could sit next to each other. The experience here was magical!!

    Doris Y.

    It was a lot more fun than I expected! It was the night they honor Hank Williams when we went. It was great!

    Sydney B.

    I had a good time at Ryman. My friend and I were here for the Trisha Paytas concert and I was surprised with how nice it was. We bought our tickets a little later so we got upper level. We were worried that the view wouldn't be that great but we were wrong. We were able to see everything clearly. There really wasn't a bad seat in the house. My only beef with the venue is the seats are like church pews and they sit 5 people to a pew. It was a tight fit for 4 people but we managed.

    Beautiful building.
    Craig W.

    This review is for the tour only. I would love to see a concert here but the next best thing is a tour. The exterior architecture of the building--which was a church before it became a music venue--is very cool. It's clearly old inside and could probably use a little update, if it could be done without ruining its historic charm. The place is extremely small and intimate but don't let anyone tell you there are no bad seats. There are PLENTY of bad seats. If you are under the second level, or behind a post or, worst of all, under the second level AND behind a post. If that happens, you will be absolutely miserable. But still there are many excellent seats here. The guide recommended the balcony seating and I would agree with that, if you can't get seats in the first few rows on the bottom level. The tour is nice. You get to see a lot, including the dressing rooms, and you get a free souvenir photo included. You will also learn a lot about the history of the building and how the Opry show started here before abandoning downtown Nashville entirely. If you can't see a show here, I would recommend the tour. However, I wouldn't say taking the tour is essential. It is not as polished or entertaining a tour as the one for the Opry.

    Elizabeth B.

    Hands down my favorite intimate venue experience. I will say there are bad seats - the pole and a camera man could easily obstruct your view if you're on the left side on the bottom (avoid those) and it's often a tight cozy seating experience with strangers, but that's the beauty of the mother church! The stained glass windows, the balcony, the vibes, the acoustics - all unbeatable. They do offer concession items at quite a high price, but sometimes you have to treat yourself!! Staff is helpful to assist with finding seats as needed.

    Taylor R.

    I've gone to multiple shows at the Ryman now but I've never done the tour of the building. It's really cool to learn the history of the building in the city and how it became the landmark it is today! We went while Santa was there and we got free photos with him. There's so much to see as far as artifacts from artists who have performed there and even a little video of how the backstage is set up and put together before a show happens. I definitely recommend stopping by if you're in town and learn a bit more about Nashville while you're here.

    Paul Mark Cauthen
    Coddy A.

    In the heart of Music City We attended the Paul Cauthen concert at the Ryman.  This review is more about the venue than the show.  What we will say about the concert was it was high energy, even though both the opener and the headliner started late.  Cauthen didn't go on to a packed house until 9:40 pm.  Maybe just getting older, but  if the artist won't publish when the show starts, appreciate when they respect the audience enough open at a reasonable time.  (talking to you Madonna). As most know the Ryman Auditorium is an iconic landmark venue with a rich history and a one of a kind character and ambiance.  It has an intimate setting, and above average acoustics.  Cauthen's bass drum and guitar were rattling the stained glass windows, and causing the seats to vibrate.  Even still, it was not uncomfortable to listen to or be in the room.  Ryman has a reverence about it which is not lost on the performers.  The joy and honor of artists performing at the "mother church" usually comes through in the show. Despite its age, the Ryman seems in good shape.  Well maintained, organized.  Security is modern and moves quickly.  There's always enough concessions open to minimize the crowding.  It is a former church, and the seats are church pews.  The old uncomfortable ones.  During popular shows, you are squeezed in and touching shoulder to shoulder with your neighbor. While service is good overall, this is the third instance where we have seen an usher (different each time) be very aggressive, and not very nice.  While I understand the need to be direct,  rudeness and a negative attitude have no place, and kills the vibe.  A sarcastic comment when asked a question and escalating emotions and tensions.  This was not only directed to us, we saw more than one incident with other attendees.  We dealt with it at the moment, and the person helping us did a great job to get it resolved. Don't let a few inhospitable ushers keep you away. Let me give you a little more info about this awesome place. The Ryman Auditorium, located in Nashville, Tennessee, is a historic live performance venue and museum with a rich past. Originally built in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle, it was later renamed Ryman Auditorium in honor of Thomas Ryman. From 1943 to 1974, it served as the home of the Grand Ole Opry, earning the nickname "The Mother Church of Country Music" Opened in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle, it became Ryman Auditorium in 1904. It housed the Grand Ole Opry from 1943-1974, earning it the nickname "The Mother Church of Country Music." It's also been called "The Birthplace of Bluegrass" and "The Carnegie Hall of the South". Performances: The Ryman has hosted a diverse range of performers across various genres, including country legends like Hank Williams and Patsy Cline, as well as artists like Elvis Presley, Bruce Springsteen, Harry Styles, and even the Wu-Tang Clan. The Ryman underwent a significant renovation in 1994, which restored its original appearance and added modern amenities. It was also renovated in 2015, and has seen various other improvements over the years. Despite initial plans for demolition after the Opry moved, preservation efforts saved the building, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 2001. Today, the Ryman continues to host a wide array of concerts and shows, as well as offering various tours and experiences for visitors. Daytime tours are available year-round. Awards: The Ryman has been recognized as Pollstar's Theater of the Year 13 times and received the Academy of Country Music's Theater of the Year award in 2022. It was named a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Landmark in 2022, and a "Rock Hall at the Ryman" exhibit was added in November 2022. Explore the auditorium at your own pace with a brochure as your guide. View exhibits and artifacts, see a short film about the Ryman's history, and take a souvenir photo on stage. Guided backstage tours: Led by an expert guide, these tours provide access to backstage areas, including dressing rooms, and share insider stories about the artists who have performed there. Haunted history tours: Explore the Ryman after hours and discover the stories behind reported unexplained sightings and occurrences. The Ryman features numerous exhibits showcasing artifacts and memorabilia from famous performers. The "Rock Hall at the Ryman" exhibit showcases rock history in Nashville. The "Soul of Nashville" theater experience: This immersive experience uses special effects, holograms, and archival footage to tell the story of the Ryman Auditorium. Cafe Lula (closed): A quick-service restaurant named after Lula C. Naff was part of the 2015 renovations but closed in 2020 and was replaced by an expanded retail shop. Gift shop: Purchase Ryman memorabilia and souvenirs. In short, the Ryman Auditorium is a vital part of Nashville's music and cultur

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    1 month ago

    George Thorogood was the best tour guide. Beautiful theater but George made it special.

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    Ryman Auditorium Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Ryman Auditorium

    Going to the Cole Swindell concert at 7:30 PM. What time should we plan on arriving? Are the seats first come first served in your selected row? And is parking difficult if we are not valeting? Thank you.

    Your tickets should tell you what row and seat you are, unless it's General Admission. I don't think you need to go terribly early unless you want to check the place out.… Read more

    How much is valet & are drinks served?

    Valet is $20 but not available for every show. It is free if you drive a Nissan car. And there are parking garages nearby including at 5th & Broadway basically across the street. Drinks are available in the lobby, with beer, wine, and cocktails.

    Is the Premium lounge pass worth it? I can't seem to find any real info on what to expect? Do we have to arrive early to enjoy the perks of the pass, and do we go to our seats by showtime?

    We did it, not worth it. See review. Money ahead to give the 100+ to a homeless person. It's about a 50% rip off. Eat before you go, unless you like granola

    Do you need to buy tickets in advance or can you just show up for self-guided tours?

    If you buy tickets in advance there is a booking/handing fee, unlike at the door Come early to buy tickets. -' all Seats are good coffee shop next store

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    Review Highlights - Ryman Auditorium

    I decide to simply do my own self-guided tour and shell out for the Grand Ole Opry backstage tour instead.

    Mentioned in 76 reviews

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    4.1(518 reviews)
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    I've lived in the Nashville area for a little over a decade now and every time I think I've seen a…read moreshow at every venue in town, I'm reminded of ones that have slipped me. The Bluebird Cafe was perhaps the biggest blind spot in my adventures as a concert goer. Thankfully for me, a can't miss opportunity arose and I was able to get tickets for it. I'm a HUGE Drive By Truckers fan and I've seen the band a dozen+ times live across the country. I've seen co-founder Patterson Hood solo a few times, but never Mike Cooley (the other co-founder) as he's simply never played live in a city I was living in or close to on a solo tour...until now. So when I saw he was doing 2 back to back shows at the Bluebird, a venue I had yet to experience, it seemed sort of kismet. I logged on when tickets went on sale and bought a great seat instantly for a very reasonable price. When I arrived, it was a bit early so I parked in the back gravel lot which was completely empty. There are Reddit scammers urging you to use Parkit and other apps to find a spot when you go to the Bluebird, but at least on this visit (a Thursday night for a sold out show) there was plenty of parking in the free gravel lot and in the lot for the adjacent bank which allows parking post 4:30...plus across the street in the Hillsboro neighborhood. If you have to Uber, there's a massive free lot at Green Hills mall 2 minutes away. Entry was easy, service was friendly. It's a cozy, warm environment. Food was good-- I ordered a "Bluebird basket" of chicken tenders and fries. I had a couple of beers and a whiskey on the rocks (Bulleit). They have a solid bar menu, some good beers (but none on tap), wine, and a few cocktail options. All reasonably priced. The show was fantastic. I love that they enforce a no-talking during the show and no late entry policy. Acoustics are fantastic. Service is friendly. Bathrooms are even clean, lol. It's a Nashville institution for a reason. See a show here.

    The coolest music venue I have ever been to. The food was okay, the drinks were great, and the…read moreentertainment was absolutely exceptional. This was the highlight of our trip to Nashville!

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    The Bluebird Cafe - Outside, performers on one side, patrons on the other only 65 in

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    Listening Room Cafe - Hot pulled pork sandwich with mac and cheese...just okay.

    Listening Room Cafe

    4.0(859 reviews)
    0.6 miDowntown
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    The Listening Room Cafe in Nashville is a premier live music venue and restaurant known for its…read moreintimate "songwriter rounds" where artists share the stories behind the hits they've written. Gayle, Jim, Erin, and I were here at the 6 PM show on 4/29/26 that featured Jason Duke, Keesy Trimmer, and Chris Bondi. We actually met Keesy when we were walking to the venue as his car pulled up and he asked if we were heading to the Listening Room? When we said yes, he was very excited. We were too at the end of the evening, with all of us agreeing that this was one of, if not the highlight of our trip to Nashville. The Listening Room itself is a large and acoustically solid room within what looked like an old International Harvester Farm Equipment Building. Food and Drink are served and I believe there was a minimum in addition to the admission price. This is normally not a place that you can walk in, so buy your tickets early. We found the food to be "adequate", the service very good, and a 5 Star show experience. Each songwriter took turns with a number, explained some background on it, name dropped artists who recorded their songs, and told some great stories. It seems like the Nashville songwriting community knows each other well, which might explain the easy familiarity all 3 had with each other and their individual song writing efforts. We might have related to Chris Bondi a little more, especially after singing the "I Bet You Would Have Loved Her" tear jerker, and a really funny one on getting high while skiing. Keesy had a great one about a boat and "Time Makes Money Look Cheap" cowritten by him and others and recorded by Chris Janson. Jason Duke showcased "Dibs" that was recorded by Kelsea Ballerini. Or was it "That Could Still Be Us" performed by Keith Urban? Our only regret was that tickets were still available for the 9 PM show (with a new songwriting team) and we passed it up. Post Note: Gayle's song title idea for Keesy: Don't go Puking on my Boots. :)

    Music and talent was great! These were songwriters who have written music for big name country…read moresingers. And they were really great singers themselves. Nice commentary in between songs telling stories. This place is quite big. We were seated in the upstairs balcony as we were a group of about 40 people. The view was good if you were at the end of the table adjacent to the balcony. For appetizers our table ordered the chicken wings dry rub which were really good - hot, well cooked tender and crispy outside. Sweet potato fries were good and others had the pretzels with cheese sauce. For my main meal I ordered the southwest salad with turkey (cubed) - which was fine. Overall a good experience!

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    Ryman Auditorium - musicvenues - Updated May 2026

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