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The Ringling Museum

The Ringling Museum

The Ringling Museum
The Ringling Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Florida’s Gulf Coast. With its rich history, world-class art collections, and unique focus on circus heritage, The Ringling offers something for everyone. File photo: Feng Cheng, ShutterStock.com, licensed.

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, commonly referred to as The Ringling, is one of Florida’s most important cultural institutions. Located in the coastal city of Sarasota, this vast 66-acre estate encompasses a world-class art museum, a historic mansion, an exquisite theater, and beautiful gardens. The museum was founded in 1927 by John Ringling, one of the five brothers who created the famous Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, and his wife, Mable Ringling.

Today, The Ringling is not just an art museum but a full cultural experience that includes a wide range of attractions for art lovers, history buffs, and circus enthusiasts. It serves as the State Art Museum of Florida, and its impressive collection spans centuries, showcasing European paintings, contemporary art, decorative arts, and sculptures. Visitors can also explore the Ca’ d’Zan, the Ringlings’ opulent waterfront mansion, the Historic Asolo Theater, and the Circus Museum, which celebrates the rich history of circus arts in America.

The Museum Complex

1. The Museum of Art At the heart of The Ringling is the Museum of Art, home to an extensive collection of European paintings, including works by Rubens, Van Dyck, Velázquez, and Titian. The museum also houses decorative arts, sculptures, and contemporary art exhibitions. Its 21 galleries surround a lush courtyard filled with classical sculptures and a replica of Michelangelo’s David.

2. Ca’ d’Zan One of the most iconic parts of The Ringling is Ca’ d’Zan, John and Mable Ringling’s stunning Venetian Gothic-style mansion. Overlooking Sarasota Bay, the 56-room mansion is inspired by the palaces of Venice, reflecting John Ringling’s love for European architecture. The mansion’s lavish interiors, vibrant colors, and ornate details transport visitors back to the opulence of the Roaring Twenties.

3. The Circus Museum The Circus Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the legacy of the circus. Established in 1948, it was the first museum of its kind to celebrate the history of the American circus. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, see memorabilia from the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, and marvel at the Howard Bros. Circus Model, a detailed scale model of the circus as it existed during the height of its fame.

4. Historic Asolo Theater Originally built in Italy in the late 18th century, the Historic Asolo Theater was brought to Sarasota and restored to its former glory. The theater hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, plays, and lectures. Its ornate interior and intimate setting make it a unique venue for live performances.

5. The Bayfront Gardens The museum’s grounds include the Bayfront Gardens, a serene landscape that features Mable Ringling’s Rose Garden, the Dwarf Garden, and beautiful banyan trees. Visitors can take a relaxing stroll through the gardens, admire the sculptures, and enjoy the views of Sarasota Bay.

The vibrant city of Sarasota is renowned for its thriving arts and culture scene and is often referred to as “Florida’s Cultural Coast” due to its concentration of theaters, galleries, and performing arts venues. The city boasts a rich history intertwined with the Ringling family’s legacy, and it continues to be a hub for artists, performers, and cultural institutions.

Sarasota is also known for its pristine beaches, especially Siesta Key Beach, which is often ranked among the best beaches in the United States. The area offers a mix of upscale dining, boutique shopping, and outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike. The city’s dedication to preserving its cultural heritage, combined with its coastal charm, makes it an ideal home for a museum of The Ringling’s stature.

Additional Details

  • Location: The Ringling Museum is located at 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL 34243.
  • Hours of Operation: The museum is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours on Thursdays until 8 PM. Ca’ d’Zan and the Circus Museum have specific tour times that can be booked in advance.
  • Admission: General admission tickets provide access to the Museum of Art, Circus Museum, and Bayfront Gardens. Additional tickets are required for tours of Ca’ d’Zan and some special exhibitions.
  • Parking: Free parking is available on-site, with spaces for cars, RVs, and buses.
  • Accessibility: The Ringling Museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms available throughout the property. Wheelchairs can also be borrowed on-site.
  • Dining and Shopping: Visitors can enjoy a meal or snack at Muse at The Ringling, a full-service restaurant on the grounds, or visit the Museum Store to purchase art books, gifts, and circus-themed memorabilia.

For more information visit: https://www.ringling.org