The Ringling Museum of Art: A Must Visit in Sarasota
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Step right up, art lovers, history buffs, and garden enthusiasts. Nestled in sunny Sarasota, Florida, The Ringling is no ordinary museum—it’s an all-in-one cultural gem that’s part art gallery, part circus spectacle, part Venetian palace, and totally unforgettable.
Once the winter home of circus magnate John Ringling and his wife, Mable, is now a sprawling 66-acre estate filled with art, culture, and lush gardens.
The property boasts five main attractions:
- Ca’ d’Zan – The opulent mansion
- Museum of Art – A treasure trove of masterpieces
- Circus Museum – A quirky homage to the big top
- Historic Asolo Theater – A time machine in stage form
- Bayfront Gardens – A botanical wonderland
- Map Widget (google maps, directions)
Pro tip: Don’t rush – Each section deserves at least 1-2 hours to fully enjoy and wear comfortable shoes.
Ca’ d’Zan: The Crown Jewel
Ca’ d’Zan, meaning “House of John” in Venetian dialect, is the stunning mansion that John and Mable Ringling built in the 1920s. Inspired by the grandeur of Venetian palaces, this waterfront home is a blend of Mediterranean Revival and Venetian Gothic styles. Inside, you’ll find crystal chandeliers, antique furnishings, and jaw-dropping views of Sarasota Bay.
Fun Fact
John Ringling was known for his flamboyant taste, and legend has it that Ca’ d’Zan’s elaborate 82-foot-tall tower was inspired by the Campanile in St. Mark’s Square, Venice.
Museum of Art: A Masterpiece Collection
The Museum of Art is where John Ringling’s passion for collecting shines. Housing over 21 galleries, it features everything from European classics by Rubens and Velázquez to contemporary pieces. Don’t miss the Rubens Gallery, home to massive Biblical paintings that will leave you in awe.
Fun Fact
John Ringling acquired many of the museum’s artworks during trips to Europe, often purchasing entire collections from aristocratic families.
Circus Museum: Step Right Up!
This whimsical museum celebrates the magic of the circus. See vintage costumes, wagons, and props from the golden era of the circus, plus the world’s largest miniature circus model—an intricately detailed replica of a Ringling Bros. show. Perfect for kids and the young-at-heart.
Fun Fact
The circus model took its creator, Howard Tibbals, over 50 years to complete. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the sheer scale of a circus operation.
Historic Asolo Theater: A Stage with History
Transport yourself to 18th-century Italy at this fully restored theater, originally built in Asolo, Italy. Dismantled and brought to The Ringling, this venue hosts everything from plays and concerts to film screenings.
Fun Fact
This theater is a rare piece of history—it’s one of the few 18th-century theaters outside of Europe still in use today.
Bayfront Gardens: Nature’s Playground
The gardens are a serene escape, filled with towering banyan trees, exotic flowers, and Mable Ringling’s beloved rose garden. Stroll along shaded paths, spot sculptures, and take in the gorgeous waterfront views.
Fun Fact
Mable’s rose garden features over 1,200 roses and is one of the oldest public rose gardens in Florida.
