Grand Ole Opry: is it worth it?
Our score, honest verdict, what it costs, how to avoid the crowds, and what to do instead if it is not for you.
Our verdict: worth it for country fans, plan the ride
If you love country music, a night at the Opry is the most "only in Nashville" ticket you can buy. It is out by Opry Mills, not downtown, so budget for the drive or a rideshare. Not sure you want a full show? The backstage tour is a lower-commitment way to see the stage and dressing rooms.
A daytime backstage tour is $46.65 with taxes and fees (official tours page). Show ticket prices vary by show and were not on the pages we checked.
Shows are sold-out-prone on popular nights; a backstage tour by day is calmer.
There is only one Opry. Standing in the circle is a real bucket-list moment for country fans.
The Opry House is outside downtown (600 Opry Mills Drive), so you need a car or rideshare. Parking cost is not confirmed.
Who should go, and who should skip it
- You are a country music fan or want a live show with several artists
- You want to stand in the circle on the stage on a backstage tour
- You only have a short stay and want to stay downtown on foot
- You do not enjoy a roughly two-hour seated show
From our visit: The easiest way to get there is Briley Parkway (Exit 11) straight to the venue's dedicated paid lot. For a first visit, an evening show is hard to beat, and adding a daytime backstage tour gives you a look at the history you won't get from a seat in the audience.
To compare, read our review of Ryman Auditorium, Lower Broadway honky-tonks and Music City Walk of Fame.
Better alternatives and what pairs well
MUSICPhoto: Daniel Schwen, CC BY-SA 4.0Ryman Auditorium
The historic downtown theater known as the Mother Church of Country Music, open for daytime tours and evening shows.
NIGHTLIFEPhoto: Cpl. Vincent Needham, public domainLower Broadway honky-tonks
The strip of live-music honky-tonks on Broadway, where bands play from late morning to the early hours.
MUSICPhoto: Adinda Uneputty, CC BY-SA 2.0Music City Walk of Fame
A free outdoor park of stars and plaques honoring music figures, across the street from the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Grand Ole Opry House?
600 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville, TN 37214. It is not in the downtown core.
How long is an Opry show?
The Opry's FAQ says every show is around 2 hours with a 15-minute intermission.
Can I bring food, water or a large bag?
The Opry's FAQ says outside food and beverages, including water, are not permitted, and there is no coat or belongings check. Video cameras, tripods and audio recorders are also not allowed.
Are kids allowed?
Children under 4 get free show admission but must sit with their guardian during the show. Children 12 and under can take a discounted backstage tour; children 3 and under are free with a ticketed adult.
