About
One of Nashville's iconic landmarks and attractions is the Grand Ole Opry! While its current location isn't where it all began, it nevertheless offers a moving experience, even if you're not a fan of country music.
Our story begins back in the 1920s, when George D. Hay started the WSM Barn Dance on the radio. The program showcased folk and country music and grew in popularity with listeners tuning in across America. The show changed its name in 1927 and became known across the globe.
The live show was performed at various Nashville theaters, but it wasn't until 1943 that the WSM Barn Dance made history by moving to the Ryman Auditorium. Fans flocked to hear rising stars and watch their favorite artists perform. Over time, the Ryman earned the nickname "Mother Church of Country Music," launching the careers of greats like Bill Monroe, Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, and countless others.
In 1974, the Opry made its final move to a larger, more technologically advanced theater at what was once Opryland Theme Park and is now the Gaylord Opryland Resort. While new sound and lighting modernized the show's production, the stage maintained the spirit of the original shows, which we'll expand upon in our following section.
The Grand Ole Opry is more than a venue. It's the birthplace of Americana, Country, and Bluegrass music.
Grand Ole Opry: Fun Facts & Cool Features
Whether you watch a show or take the tour, the wooden circle at center stage is one of the star attractions. Back in the 1970s, workers cut out a circle of wood from the Ryman stage and placed this six-foot oak memorabilia into the center of the new floor. Today, artists stand in that exact spot to perform, stepping into the footsteps of country music legends from days gone by. Performers treat this space with profound respect, some kneeling to kiss the wood.
Speaking of singers and bands, another unique aspect of a Grand Ole Opry show is that it features multiple performers rather than a single headliner. This format guarantees a dynamic entertainment experience, ranging from family gospel groups and cloggers to rising stars and country legends.
Also unique is how loosely the show operates. Unlike most live TV and radio shows that are detailed to the second, the Opry flows like a lazy river. Announcers off to one side of the stage read advertisement scripts and then introduce the next musical guest. Artists and musicians saunter out, plug in their instruments, and play. For those in the music biz, playing at the Opry is one of the highest achievements to reach in Music City.
The WSM broadcast holds the record as the longest-running radio broadcast in United States history. The 878-foot tower rises south of downtown in Brentwood, enabling the show to reach millions of listeners as far away as Canada, Los Angeles, and Mexico!
If you sign up for a tour, you'll see the backstage area, which houses 18 custom dressing rooms. One room honors the women of Country with glamorous décor, while another room mimics a rustic cabin to celebrate bluegrass roots. Although you won't be there when the artists are, you can picture them in the rooms warming up, while other performers, musicians, and crew mill about the hallways, laughing and sharing tales. The atmosphere backstage before and during a show is a combination of a family reunion and a circus!
Adding the Grand Ole Opry to a Music City vacation is a must! With its varied lineup, rich history, and unique tours, it will be the highlight of your visit!
Local Tips
- Backstage tours on weekday mornings tend to be less crowded.
- Shows average around 2 hours and 15 minutes. Plan accordingly.
- Purchase your show tickets months in advance to secure the best prices.
- Food and beverages are at SoundBites, but cheaper options are in Opry Mills.
