George Jones Statue at the Ryman Icon Walk in Nashville
Find the George Jones statue outside Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, including its location, unveiling details, and the other country legends featured on the Ryman Icon Walk.
Written by Amanda Tempel
Last Updated: September 4, 2026
Where to See the George Jones Statue in Nashville
Location: Outside Ryman Auditorium
Address: 116 Rep. John Lewis Way North, Nashville, TN 37219
Area: Ryman Icon Walk
Admission: Free to visit
Setting: Outdoor statue
A bronze statue honoring country music legend George Jones stands outside Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium as part of the Ryman Icon Walk. The permanent tribute celebrates Jones’ contributions to country music, the Grand Ole Opry, and the historic Ryman stage.
The statue is located on the northeast corner of the Ryman Auditorium building near the driveway off Rep. John Lewis Way, making it easy for country music fans to visit while exploring downtown Nashville.
Jones had a long history with the Ryman Auditorium. From appearances on the Grand Ole Opry to TNN’s “Monday Night Concerts” and his own headlining shows, the historic venue played an important role throughout his career.
George Jones Statue Unveiling and Ryman Tribute
The George Jones statue was officially unveiled at the Ryman Auditorium on June 3, 2025, during the Grand Ole Opry’s 100th anniversary year. The ceremony included George Jones’ wife, Nancy Jones, Ryman Hospitality Properties Executive Chairman Colin Reed, and Grand Ole Opry member Jamey Johnson.
The unveiling was especially meaningful for Jones’ family, creating a permanent tribute at one of his favorite venues.
“The Ryman was one of George’s favorite places to play music,” said Nancy Jones. “He truly revered it as the ‘Mother Church’ and loved the acoustics. To have his legacy live on here permanently, and to see all the people who joined us today and continue to embrace him and his music, means so much to our family.”
Sculptor Ben Watts created the George Jones statue in collaboration with the Ryman team. The project took approximately one year to complete.
“Today, we add another legendary artist to the Ryman’s Icon Walk by bringing forth George Jones, who had a fabulous career and is revered as one of the greats,” said Ryman Hospitality Properties Executive Chairman Colin Reed. “The Ryman and the Opry were lucky to be a part of George’s story for so many years, so we feel it is only fitting to have George added here among these other stars who have made a lasting impression on country music.”
Both quotes were shared by the Ryman following the statue unveiling.
Tour the Ryman Icon Walk in Nashville
The George Jones statue joins several other country music legends represented along the Ryman Icon Walk, including:
Charley Pride
Loretta Lynn
Bill Monroe
Little Jimmy Dickens
The statues are located around the exterior of the historic Nashville venue. George Jones’ statue is the latest addition to the collection.
Fans who want to see more George Jones memorabilia can also head inside the Ryman. One of Jones’ signature Manuel suits is displayed as part of the Ryman Museum. A Ryman tour ticket is required to visit exhibits inside the building.
The Ryman Auditorium is located at 116 Rep. John Lewis Way North, Nashville, Tennessee 37219.
George Jones Statue at the Ryman FAQ
Where is the George Jones statue located?
The George Jones statue is located outside Ryman Auditorium on the Ryman Icon Walk in downtown Nashville. The statue can be found on the northeast corner of the building near the driveway off Rep. John Lewis Way.
Is the George Jones statue free to visit?
Yes. The statue is located outside the Ryman Auditorium and does not require a Ryman tour ticket to see.
Is the George Jones statue part of the Ryman tour?
The George Jones statue is outside the building, so visitors do not need to purchase a Ryman tour to see it. Fans can also pair their visit with a guided or self-guided tour of the Ryman to explore the venue’s country music history and memorabilia.
When was the George Jones statue unveiled?
The George Jones statue was unveiled at Ryman Auditorium on June 3, 2025, as part of the Ryman Icon Walk.
Who created the George Jones statue?
The statue was designed by sculptor Ben Watts, who worked with the Ryman team on the project.
What other statues are on the Ryman Icon Walk?
The George Jones statue joins statues honoring Charley Pride, Loretta Lynn, Bill Monroe, and Little Jimmy Dickens on the Ryman Icon Walk.