Country music, like a baby’s first words, makes people feel good despite the depressing subject matter. Savor the magic of empathy with today’s Groupon to the Ryman Auditorium, which is open for tours every day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Choose between the following options:

• For $13, you get a self-guided tour for two (up to a $26 value).
• For $25, you get a self-guided tour for four (up to a $52 value).

The former home of the Grand Ole Opry and a National Historic Landmark, the gorgeous, hallowed Ryman Auditorium insulates its walls with American history, having hosted many of the nation’s legendary country-music performers since its construction in 1892. During the self-guided tour, music enthusiasts of all ages can pore over exclusive videos and photos of country-music stars Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash in the Johnny & June at the Ryman exhibit, where Carter’s autoharp draws attention and Cash’s old boots whisper secrets about what color socks he wore to passersby. Original stage costumes from performers such as Dolly Parton and Hank Williams hang behind panes of glass, and an audio tour delves into the venue’s past with anecdotes from distinguished storyteller and radio personality Garrison Keillor. Exhibits and videos tell of the famous concert hall’s construction and history, as well as sharing notes on its iconic performers including Bob Dylan, Ray Charles, Waylon Jennings, and Mozart.

A collection of letterpress posters from concerts by the likes of Robert Plant and Bruce Springsteen hang in the lobby, and a line of cases displays musical artifacts along the back of the theater in the light from colorful stained-glass windows. Lovers of the spotlight can pay an additional fee to get on stage and have a keepsake souvenir photo taken instead of asking backup singers to snap a shot mid-performance. Groupon customers also receive 10% off gift-shop merchandise purchased on the day of the tour.