The Grand Ole Opry, TN
Nashville, Tennessee, USA
From ‘The show that made country music famous” to ‘The home of country music’, the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville has had many nicknames, but has what remained constant is that it has played host to anybody who is anybody in country music since the first broadcast in November 1925.
Founded originally as a one hour ‘radio barn dance’, the show went on to become a showcase for all country music singers both traditional and contemporary. Now the longest running radio show in US history, the Grand Ole Opry has developed into a country music stage concert every week with a mix of both established and new up and coming talent. Hundreds of thousands of people travel to watch it every year with millions more listening to the radio broadcast.
The original Opry show was housed in the Ryman auditorium in Nashville’s downtown area, before relocating to its own, purpose built, Grand Ole Opry House on 15 March 1975. However, a circle of hardwood had been removed from the stage at the Ryman and now takes pride of place on the stage here. To stand on that is considered a huge achievement for a country musician, along with the highly coveted Opry membership, a hall of fame in itself.
There is also the opportunity to do backstages tours which will add even more to the experience.
Even if you are not a huge country music fan and whether or not you know your Dolly Partons from your Eric Paslays, you will have a fantastic evening out at the Opry. You can listen to a wide range of talented musicians, interspersed with comedic acts and dance, all punctuated by the advertising spiel that reminds you that you are watching and listening to what is essentially a live radio show. The nature of the show means it is both suitable and enjoyable as a night out for everyone. There were lots of children in the audience, all of whom seemed to be having a great time!
General accessibility information
Accessible seating is available and can be booked either at the box office, online or by calling the customer shrive team. There are lifts to access the seating areas on the second level.
There are disabled toilets available on all levels.
Wheelchairs are available to borrow.
Assistance dogs are welcome.
