Ryman Auditorium, Nashville (must see)

Ryman Auditorium, also known as the "Mother Church of Country Music," is a historic venue in downtown Nashville. Established by Thomas G. Ryman, it has become one of the most iconic landmarks in the country music industry.

Thomas Ryman was a businessman and riverboat captain who was converted to Christianity during a revival meeting led by evangelist Reverend Sam Jones. Inspired by his new faith, Ryman decided to build a tabernacle to host large revival meetings and to support Jones's ministry. Construction of the Union Gospel Tabernacle began in 1885 and was completed in 1892. After Ryman's death in 1904, the building was renamed the Ryman Auditorium in his honor.

Although initially built for religious purposes, Ryman Auditorium has been used for a variety of events over the years. In the early 20th century, it hosted political debates, community meetings, and various entertainment programs. It served as the home of the Grand Ole Opry, the world's longest-running live radio show, from 1943 to 1974, which marked the beginning of its reputation as the "Mother Church of Country Music."

Some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, Dolly Parton, and Patsy Cline, have performed on the Ryman stage. The venue is renowned for its exceptional acoustics, which contribute to the unique sound and atmosphere that attract musicians and audiences alike.

Despite the introduction of modern venues in Nashville, the Ryman Auditorium has held onto its charm and historical significance. It fell into disrepair when the Grand Ole Opry moved to a new location in 1974, but it was renovated and reopened in 1994. Since then, it has continued to host a variety of music performances, including country, rock, bluegrass, gospel, and pop.

Today Ryman Auditorium is a treasured symbol of Nashville's musical heritage and a must-visit destination for music lovers worldwide.

Tip:
There are two options on tours; self-guided and guided. With the former you can roam about the amphitheater and balcony levels, enjoying the many displays on the auditorium, its history, and the many diverse artists and orators who have visited the stage. If you're really into it, buy the (extra-cost) guided backstage tour tickets, and the guide will take you backstage through many of the dressing rooms, with history about the place and the artists included. Ending up at the side of the stage at the control area where you can grab a pic looking out into the bowl, you are then free to roam around the rest of the place with the other visitors. Pictures are allowed everywhere except in the dressing rooms on the backstage tour.