"After the Grand Ole Opry left the Ryman Auditorium, country legend Roy Acuff said the redbrickbuilding with its Gothic arches and stained glass windowsmight as well be torn down. The Rymanhad been home to performances and broadcasts since the 1940s, but it wasin poor condition and lacked air-conditioning and proper dressing rooms. Fortunately, its legacy as “The Mother Church of Country Music” prevailed and, after years of sitting practically empty, the auditorium was renovated and began hosting shows once again. Originally built as a church, the grand hall has spectacular acoustics and a lingering magic in its pews from all those years spent witnessing country music history. A trip here is practically obligatory when visiting the Music City."