It’s Friday the 13th, so why not start your day with a spooky story of one of the most haunted venues in the US? 👻

That’s right — Nashville’s very own Ryman Auditorium ranks as one of the spookiest performance venues with a history of paranormal activity + suspicious deaths of performers. Whether or not you believe in ghosts, these stories of 3 questionable presences within the auditorium may have you looking over your shoulder during your next visit.

Thomas Ryman

It may come as no surprise that the man behind the masterpiece may or may not pay a visit to the former church he established in the 1890s. Originally known as Union Gospel Tabernacle + temporarily home to the Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman was created by Capt. Thomas Ryman as a place of worship.

Following his death in 1904, Thomas supposedly continued to monitor his venue. It appeared as though Thomas’ spirit was not happy with the secular turn of performances in the holy space, because his ghost reportedly disrupted more “risqué” shows by stomping + causing chaos.

I mean, we'd want to make sure our auditorium ran smoothly, too.

Hank Williams, Sr.

His spirit must’ve been so lonesome it could cry, because this late country star is said to be frequently spotted in the bustling venue.

Hank was fired from the Opry in 1952, but apparently his ghost didn’t get the memo. According to visitors and employees, his songs are inexplicably heard on stage + a suspicious figure has been spotted roaming backstage.

From the Gray Man + Lady to The Opry Curse, learn more about the Ryman’s haunted history from Ghost City Tours.

Poll