Country music is a beloved genre that traces its roots back to the early 1920s in the Southern United States. From its origins in folk, gospel, and old-time music, country has expanded and evolved over the decades into a thriving industry with popular appeal. But where are the hottest spots for country music fans these days? Here we’ll look at some of the top places that embrace country music culture and offer great live shows, festivals, and museums.
Nashville, Tennessee
It’s no surprise that Nashville, Tennessee is hands down one of the best places for country music lovers. Nicknamed “Music City”, Nashville is home to the iconic Grand Ole Opry stage, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and a myriad of honky tonks, venues, studios, and attractions on the famous Music Row. With a history stretching back to the 1920s, Nashville has been pivotal in the development of country music and is where many of the biggest names got their start. From intimate songwriter rounds to massive concerts at arenas like Bridgestone Arena, Nashville offers an unbeatable country music experience.
Why Nashville Stands Out
- Home of the Grand Ole Opry, the longest running radio show in history that helped launch legends like Patsy Cline and Dolly Parton
- The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum with an extensive collection of historical artifacts and memorabilia
- Music Row is home to a high concentration of record labels, studios, and radio stations central to country music business
- Venues of all sizes featuring daily live country music, from the Ryman Auditorium to intimate honky tonks on Broadway
- Massive annual events like the CMA Music Festival which draws huge country crowds
Austin, Texas
While Nashville may be the first place people associate with country music, Austin, Texas has also become a major hub. The famous slogan “Keep Austin Weird” extends to its eclectic music scene, which embraces traditional country music along with genres like outlaw country, red dirt, and Americana. With long-standing dance halls and modern venues, plus the annual SXSW festival, Austin provides a vibrant backdrop for country musicians and fans.
What Makes Austin Stand Out
- Historic dance halls like Broken Spoke and Gruene Hall where country legends have played for decades
- Trendy new venues on the growing Rainey Street district bring in top country talent
- Austin City Limits music festival features major country artists every year
- Towns outside Austin like Luckenbach nurture local country and outlaw artists
- ACL Live at The Moody Theater provides an intimate setting to see concerts
Branson, Missouri
For an old-school country music experience, Branson, Missouri can’t be beat. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Branson has been a major tourist destination since the 1960s. With dozens of theaters and music halls lining the main strip, it offers a throwback to the golden era of country music. Visitors can take in shows by legendary artists who have made Branson their home as well as impressive tribute shows honoring iconic country stars like Johnny Cash. Outside the theaters, attractions like Silver Dollar City theme park also embrace country music heritage.
Why Branson is a Country Music Paradise
- Branson became known as a country music tourist town in the 1960s and still maintains that reputation today
- Theaters like the Grand Ole Opry House showcase concerts and variety shows by famous veterans like Mel Tillis and Crystal Gayle as well as up-and-coming acts
- Tribute shows allow you to re-live performances by country greats like Patsy Cline, Reba McEntire, and more
- The annual Branson Famous Baldknobbers Jamboree recreates an old-fashioned hoe down atmosphere
- Areas like the downtown historic district also highlight country music history with museums and attractions
Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains along the border of North Carolina, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg also provide a wealth of options for country fans. These twin mountain towns are home to Dolly Parton’s famous amusement park Dollywood as well as major dinner theaters that stage lively country music variety shows. Favorites like the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Feud, Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud, and Smoky Mountain Opry all incorporate music by legendary country stars into spectacular family shows. The surrounding mountain scenery and Southern small town vibe enhance the experience.
Why These Twin Towns are Ideal for Country Music
- Dollywood has shows, rides, and food inspired by Dolly Parton’s country roots and Appalachian upbringing
- Major dinner theaters seat up to 2,000 and present musical variety shows with costumed characters
- Live music fills huge theaters like the Smoky Mountain Opry with classics by Johnny Cash, Reba McEntire, and more
- Smaller venues feature regular shows by local bluegrass and mountain music acts
- The natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains paired with Southern hospitality make for a pleasant country music getaway
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Oklahoma may fly under the radar when it comes to music scenes, but Oklahoma City offers plenty for country fans. Homegrown country stars like Garth Brooks, Toby Keith, and Vince Gill got their start in local bars around OKC. And you can still find excellent live country music at vintage and modern venues, from the eclectic Blue Door to massive arenas hosting touring acts. Western wear stores, cowboy culture, and the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum reinforce this city’s country music roots.
Oklahoma City’s Country Music Claims to Fame
- The Blue Door music hall presents nationally touring roots, Americana, and alt-country acts in an intimate 200-seat venue
- ACM@UCO, the Academy of Country Music’s school, offers exhibits and education in country music history right in OKC
- The Chisholm Trail Festival highlights Western music and culture with outdoor concerts and family activities
- Local country radio stations support up-and-comers through events like KSOP’s Opry in the Park concert series
- Venues like the Zoo Amphitheatre and Paycom Center draw major country headliners
Conclusion
For devotees of country music, it’s hard to top musical hotspots like Nashville, Austin, Branson, Pigeon Forge, and Oklahoma City. These cities offer their own unique country culture, heritage, venues, events, and artists that keep fans coming back. From the Grand Ole Opry to honky tonks to cowboy museums, there are so many iconic attractions tied to country music history across the USA. Whether you’re looking for booming concerts or an old-fashioned hoe down, you’re sure to find plenty of great country music happening at these legendary locations.