Visiting Nashville: Grand Old Opry Alternatives

Written by Meredith on May 9, 2008 | Comments (0)

Q: My husband, toddler, and I will be visiting Nashville this May. I'm a huge country music fan, but almost fell out when I checked out tickets for the Grand Ole Opry.

Do you know of any other ways to experience Nashville's music for less?

A: Nashville has lots of fun, free places to visit. Here are some great, authentic alternatives to the Grand Old Opry for Nashville visitors on a budget!

Let's start with the music.

We like to say that only tourists go to the Grand Old Opry.

Just kiddin'!

My friends Jim and Lynnette love the Grand Old Opry.

Here's why they don't mind spending $106 for 2 tickets to the Opry or the Ryman.

But if you're visiting Nashville on a budget, don't worry! You can see authentic Nashville music for much less than the Opry:

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You can't get more authentic than the songwriters and stars who play at the Bluebird Cafe in Green Hills. I love its casual, intimate roundtable setting.

--->Lynnette has the scoop on getting tickets to the Bluebird, especially for its FREE early show.

The Station Inn downtown also offers a free Bluegrass jam performance on Sunday nights after 8:30.
Find buy-one-get-one-free admission coupons to the Wildhorse Saloon downtown in the Entertainment Book.
Take your photo in front of the Grand Old Opry and keep walking till you reach Opry Mills Outlet Mall. Check the calendar for free performances at the entertainment stage in front of Barnes and Noble, see the Gibson Guitar shop, and have lunch at the Wildhorse Opry Mills location.

--->More free concerts in Nashville? Ms. Cheap of the Tennessean lists over 100 free things to do in the summer in Nashville, many of which are free concerts all over the city.

The Country Music Hall of Fame downtown is another great Nashville attraction. But with bare budget tickets at starting at $19 apiece, it's not cheap.

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If you're really on a budget, go inside for an inexpensive lunch at the SoBro Grill.
Browse the gift shop for high quality souvenirs.
Have your photo taken in the lobby or outside on the Country Music Walk of Fame.
Make the most of your ticket by scheduling your visit during a Masters Series taping.

--->Cool! Here's a printable coupon for 20% off your lunch at the SoBro Grill at the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Watch a little country music right here! The Grand Old Opry Plaza Parties are held outdoors on Saturdays during the summer.