The name Ringling is synonymous with the “Greatest Show on Earth”. The name conjures up images of a caravan of trucks and trailers carrying exotic animals and unique individuals. Every kid in town wanted a ticket to that show. The lights, the animals, the daring feats and sometimes freakish side shows had a special allure. Every store in town had a large colorful poster advertising the event. The kids saved their money to buy tickets and if lucky, some popcorn. It is this same name that was the founder and builder of the Museum of Art. John and Mable Ringling had a love for art.

  • What is Ca' d'Zan?
    • Ca' d'Zan, meaning "House of John", is a five-story mansion with over 40 rooms, built by John and Mable Ringling after purchasing property in Sarasota, Florida. It was inspired by Venetian architecture and is now one of the highlights of The Ringling estate.
  • What is the history behind The Ringling Museum?
    • John and Mable Ringling traveled the world collecting art and circus acts. Their art collection became the foundation of The Ringling's 21-gallery art museum. After John’s death, the estate declined until A. Everett 'Chick' Austin, Jr. was hired as Director and revived it by opening the first Circus Museum and creating a Venetian-style theater.
  • How did Florida State University become involved with The Ringling?
    • The settling of the Ringling estate took decades, during which time private donors kept it afloat. In 2000, the state of Florida transferred governance of the museum to Florida State University. The university invested heavily in restoration and added four major new buildings to expand the complex.
  • What are the main components of The Ringling today?
    • The Ringling now includes eight buildings: four original—Ca' d'Zan, the Museum of Art, the Circus Museum, and the Historic Asolo Theater; and four added by FSU—Visitor Pavilion, Circus Museum Tibbals Learning Center, David F. Bolger Playspace, and the Center for Asian Art.
  • What is the significance of The Ringling today?
    • The Ringling serves as a preservation of global art and a tribute to the circus era. It is considered by many to be "the greatest show on earth" in museum form, offering a blend of history, art, and performance.

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1. The Ringling History

The Ringling History

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  • What can you see at the Museum of Art?
    • Dubbed the State Art Museum of Florida, this 31-gallery museum is a premier cultural destination in Sarasota. It features artwork and antiquities, many of which were handpicked by the Ringlings. The original 21 galleries are being renovated to better showcase the collection. Special events are hosted regularly—check their website for details.
  • Are tours available at the Museum of Art?
    • Yes, daily permanent collection tours are available for $10 per person. Private tours can also be arranged starting at $100, with reservations required at least two weeks in advance.
  • What is Ca’ d’Zan?
    • Ca' d'Zan is the private home of John and Mable Ringling, designed in the Venetian Gothic style. It features large ornate rooms filled with priceless treasures and elaborate furnishings, resembling something from a "palace floor plan magazine." Tours are available at the admission desk.
  • Are there events held at Ca’ d’Zan?
    • Yes, special events are held throughout the year. One example is the Holiday Splendor, where the Ca’ d’Zan hosts Holiday Nights each Thursday in December. The mansion is decorated for Christmas and open to visitors for festive tours.
  • What is featured in the Circus Museum?
    • The Circus Museum, founded by A. Everett "Chick" Austin Jr., includes wardrobes, props, carts, parade wagons, and other fascinating circus memorabilia. The recently restored railcar "Wisconsin", once used by the Ringlings, is now on display. Entrance is included in the general admission to The Ringling.

2. Bayfront Gardens at The Ringling

Bayfront Gardens at The Ringling

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  • What are the Bayfront Gardens?
    • The Bayfront Gardens span 66 acres along the Gulf of Mexico and feature stunning views and lush plantings of trees, flowers, and shrubs. The gardens are divided into several distinct areas, each with its own unique charm.
  • What is Mable’s Rose Garden?
    • Mable Ringling had a deep love for roses, and this was one of her first garden projects. The restored garden includes roses introduced between 1867 and 2002, featuring Tree Roses, Hybrid Tea Roses, Floribundas, Grandifloras, Miniature Roses, and Old Garden Roses. Visitors can enjoy the beauty and fragrance of over 1,200 rose plants.
  • What is The Secret Garden?
    • The Secret Garden began with plants that Mable received as gifts. It is now the final resting place of John and Mable Ringling and John's sister, Ida Ringling North.
  • What is the Dwarf Garden?
    • Inspired by 18th- and 19th-century German and Italian gardens, the Dwarf Garden features stone dwarf statues from Italy. Located next to the Visitor Pavilion, the charming figures continue to delight visitors of The Ringling.
  • What kinds of trees are on the estate?
    • Mable had a passion for exotic trees. The estate features a wide collection, including Banyan, Shaving Brush, Tiger Claw, Monkey Puzzle, Ear Tree, Rainbow Eucalyptus, and several varieties of bamboo.

3. The Promenade and Millennium Tree Trail at The Ringling

The Promenade and Millennium Tree Trail at The Ringling

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  • What is the Millennium Tree Trail and how is it connected to Ca' d'Zan?
    • A large promenade was built in 2010 to connect Ca' d'Zan to the Millennium Tree Trail. The trail features a variety of trees including oak, holly, citrus, and magnolia, offering a scenic walkway through the estate.
  • What is the Historic Asolo Theater?
    • Known as the birthplace of performing arts in Florida, the Historic Asolo Theater dates back to the 15th century and was originally built in the great hall of the Queen of Cyprus’s palace. It was dismantled during WWII, stored in Venice, and later purchased and reconstructed in Florida as part of the Museum of Art.
  • What are the features of the Asolo Theater?
    • The theater is U-shaped and features three tiers of boxes. It is housed in the Visitor Pavilion and regularly hosts live plays and music performances.
  • What is found in the Education Center?
    • The Education Center houses the Ringling Art Library, which contains thousands of volumes on all forms of art. The collection is open to the public, although books cannot be checked out.
  • What events are held at the Education Center?
    • The Center offers a range of programs including Story Time on select Fridays, a book club, an educators program on Saturdays, and is also available for classroom events.

4. Plan Your Trip to The Ringling

Plan Your Trip to The Ringling

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  • Where is The Ringling located?
    • The Ringling is located just off Hwy. 41 and Ringling Plaza in Sarasota, Florida. Parking is available on the Florida State University campus near the Center for Performing Arts.
  • Why should I visit The Ringling?
    • If you love the circus or fine art, The Ringling is a must-see attraction. It features world-class artwork, circus memorabilia, and beautifully landscaped gardens, making it a top destination for visitors to the Sarasota area.
  • What dining options are available at The Ringling?
    • Muse at The Ringling: A full-service restaurant serving lunch and dinner with an international menu and a full bar. Reservations are recommended.
      The Banyan Cafe: An outdoor eatery offering light meals such as salads, sandwiches, burgers, and hot dogs.
      The Museum Cafe: A coffee house located upstairs in the Visitors Pavilion offering pastries and drinks like coffee and tea.
  • Can I bring a picnic to The Ringling?
    • Yes, picnics are allowed in designated areas on the grounds. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy a full day exploring the gardens, waterfront, and promenade.
  • What shopping options are available at The Ringling?
    • The Museum Store: Offers a wide range of circus-themed gifts, including jewelry, books, ornaments, music, and more. Located in the Visitor Pavilion.
      The Circus Store: Features posters, wall art, books, t-shirts, and jewelry—ideal for picking up a fun circus-themed souvenir.
  • Does The Ringling host weddings and corporate events?
    • Yes! The Ringling offers a romantic setting for weddings with venues such as the Ca’ d’Zan terrace and gardens. For companies, the site is perfect for meetings, receptions, tours, and family events with a variety of venue options.
  • What is the address for The Ringling?

    • 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, Florida 34243, Phone: 941-359-5700

Plan Your Trip


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