Grand Ole Opry House, Nashville (must see)

The Grand Ole Opry, located in Nashville, is a true American icon and a cornerstone of country music. Founded in 1925, the Opry is the United States' longest-running radio broadcast and is renowned for introducing a wealth of talent to the national stage, including legends such as Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, and Johnny Cash.

Starting as a simple radio program named the "WSM Barn Dance," the Opry quickly grew in popularity, becoming a Nashville institution and helping to earn the city its nickname as "Music City, USA." Its weekly Saturday night shows have become a beloved tradition, bringing together fans from around the world to celebrate the best of country music.

Housed in the Grand Ole Opry House since 1974, the Opry offers a unique live music experience that blends a mix of new stars, superstars, and legends of country music. Unlike a typical concert, the Opry presents eight or more artists on each show, giving the audience a sample of each artist’s musical style.

The Grand Ole Opry also holds the distinction of being a live radio program. Listeners can still tune in on the Opry's home radio station, 650 AM WSM, to hear live performances, just as they did when the show began a century ago.

Visitors to the Opry House can take a backstage tour and get a behind-the-scenes look at the world's most famous country music venue. The tour guides visitors through the artists' entrance, the dressing rooms, and onto the stage itself, all while sharing stories from the Opry's rich history.

Whether you're a diehard country music fan or a casual listener, a visit to the Grand Ole Opry is a must when in Nashville. It's more than just a music venue; it's a piece of living history, carrying on the traditions of the past while showcasing the country music stars of today and tomorrow.

Tip:
If you take a tour, try to take the last one on the night of a show because then you can see the tour bus pull in, artists check in and go into their dressing rooms and warm up on stage.