As a Mecca for singers & songwriters, country fashion trends and larger than life collaborations between some of country’s biggest acts, Nashville is the premier destination for country music fans to get away and experience the life of the stars. From actually being in attendance at the historic Grand Ole Opry to visiting country’s past and even the homes of the genre’s current top players, country music fans are sure to find the vacation of a lifetime waiting in Nashville, TN. Below, we’ve compiled a short-list of some of the many activities that are sure to pique the interest of even the casual fan.
There may not be a more popular concert series in all of American history than the Grand Ole Opry. Beginning with legends including Hank Williams Sr., Minnie Pearl, and Roy Acuff, and continuing right up to legends such as Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, and Reba McEntire, the Grand Ole Opry has consistently brought an all-star cast of performers to the masses for close to a century. Simply put, if you’re a country music fan visiting Nashville you’ll be hard pressed to not be in attendance during this now legendary concert.
If the Grand Ole Opry can offer a glimpse into the talents of today’s top country acts, then the Country Music Hall of Fame will definitely flesh out the long history that has paved the way for the stars of today. The 40,000-square-foot, three-story museum features a variety of music, pictures, exhibits and memorabilia covering everything from country’s humble beginnings to the booming business it has now become.
Ryman Auditorium Self-Guided Tour
While the Country Music Hall of Fame offers a sweeping glimpse into nearly every nook and cranny of country music history, the Ryman Auditorium Self-Guided Tour can provide an intimate look at the beginnings of the Grand Ole Opry. The Opry was held at the Ryman until 1974, and houses some of the fondest memories of the show’s past. From having your picture taken on the actual stage of the Ryman to exploring the auditorium’s many exhibits and unique memorabilia, this tour is the perfect compliment to actually seeing the Grand Ole Opry while visiting Nashville.
For the ultimate look into the lives of country’s top stars, the Home of the Stars Tour offers a connection not typically found between fans and entertainers. You’ll be taken through Nashville and the surrounding area as you view the homes of dozens of the top artists living in the area. From stars of past generations such as Little Jimmy Dickens and Porter Wagoner to Alan Jackson, Kix Brooks, Ronnie Dunn and other current giants of the industry, you’ll see a wide range of opulent homes and mansions as you get a truly backstage look into the lives of your favorite entertainers.
