Established in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle, Ryman Auditorium is a National Historic Landmark and must see for any Nashville visitor. Most famous as the home of the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974, there is far more to the story of Music City's most recognizable icon. Take a Self-Guided tour and discover what makes the Ryman, the 'Soul of Nashville.' At the start of your tour, you will be immersed in the Ryman's magical history during 'Soul of Nashville,' a one-of-a-kind theater experience which puts the spotlight on more than a century of legendary performances and showcases a new collaboration with Darius Rucker, The Fisk Jubilee Singers, Sheryl Crow and Vince Gill. Five new exhibits are now open! Peruse genuine artifacts and enjoy videos with hosts Charles Esten, Marty Stuart, Nicole Kidman, Ricky Skaggs, Robin Roberts and Trisha Yearwood as they take you through each chapter of the fascinating Ryman story. "Workin' on a Building" Video host Trisha Yearwood tells of the famed meeting between Thomas Green Ryman and Samuel Porter Jones, and the inspiration that led to the construction of one of the nation's grandest tabernacles. On display are artifacts documenting Ryman's life, construction of the building and events that took place during the early years of the Union Gospel Tabernacle. "Showplace of the South" Most know of the Grand Ole Opry's time in the Ryman, but some may not be aware of the performances that graced the stage long before the radio show arrived. Video host Nicole Kidman shares the fascinating story of the Ryman's transition from a revival hall into a premier performing arts venue. "Mother Church of Country Music" The Ryman acquired a new identity when a soon to be world-famous radio program found itself in search of a new home. The Ryman's new tenant brought a whole new fan base into the pews when they began broadcasting their clear-channel signal coast to coast. "Ryman Stage to Screen" Many remember hearing the sounds of the Opry resonating over the airwaves but don't realize how many times the Ryman has appeared on the big screen. Visitors will see clips from many of the concert taping, television episodes and major motion pictures that have used the Ryman as their setting. From "Coal Miner's Daughter" to television's "Nashville," "Honkytonk Man" to "American Idol," the Ryman has served as an important backdrop for many filmmaking projects over the years. "Ryman Renaissance" The last stop on the tour is an exhibit dedicated to the ongoing legacy of the Ryman. Video host Robin Roberts shares recent Ryman history and relates the importance of its continued tradition. Today, the Ryman hosts 200-250 events annually and, just like the generations of the past, people sit in the same wooden pews to see the greats of their day perform and breathe new life into the room.
