You may think “The Ringling” is just a museum about the Circus but it is so much more than that. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is a massive 60+acre complex in Sarasota; home of the Florida State Museum of Art, Circus Museum, John Ringling’s home aka Ca’ d’Zan mansion, AND the beautiful Bayfront Gardens.
PRO TIP: Purchase tickets online in advance. You can purchase tickets at the door, but you’ll likely wait in line. You must purchase separate tickets to tour the Ca’dZan mansion.
Reason #1: The Stunning Architecture
One of the most striking aspects of the Ringling Museum is its remarkable architecture. The Ringling’s gorgeous architecture was designed to resemble the Venetian Gothic architecture that that typical of Venice Italy where the Ringling’s loved to travel. The intricate arches draw your attention to the colorful stained-glass windows. As we were entering, I read that the Ca’ d’Zan mansion was completed in the mid-20’s and was bequeathed to the State of Florida in 1936. I was intrigued to learn why the property was gifted to the State only 10-15 years after the mansion was built. What would make someone built such a lovely home and then just give it away? More to come on that later…
PRO TIP: Greeters hand out maps for the property, but you can download a free map AND free audio guide ahead of time on their website (listed at the bottom of my blog.) Plan to bring your own headphones/earbuds if you want to use the audio guides.
As we got closer to the Ca’ d’Zan, I was mesmerized by all the colored marble and glazed terracotta. This massive mansion is over 36,000 square-feet and sits on the waterfront. Just wait until you stand on the back patio overlooking the crystal blue water. You may never want to leave! An interesting fact about the mansion, at the time it was completed in 1926, it had cost John Ringling 1.5 million dollars to build. I can only imagine how much this property would cost to build today and I would love to know how much it would sell for in 2023! I am sure the price would be outrageous, but it is worth every penny.
Reason #2: The Ca’ d’Zan Mansion’s-Stained Glass Windows
One of the most surprising finds were the arched stained-glass windows that lined the entire back wall of the house. The combination of the blues and purples panes of glass were absolutely stunning. I could have spent the afternoon peering out the windows to the gulf. This is definitely something you need to see in person. It’s almost indescribable. It was so peaceful, elegant and serene.
Reason #3: The Furniture & Decor
Everywhere you look you will see ornate, antique furniture and decor. It all felt so regal and exquisite, as if the royal family once lived there. I absolutely loved the emerald, green chairs and chandelier. It made me want to redecorate my own house and incorporate green into our decor. When I returned home to Ohio, I actually ended up painting our front door green. Art inspires!
PRO TIP: Ca’ d’Zan capacity is limited. To avoid disappointment, guests are encouraged to purchase tickets online, in advance.
I was disappointed that I had only purchased tickets for the self-guided tour of the first floor. I would have really enjoyed seeing the bedrooms and bathrooms and the rest of the floors. The next time I visit, I will upgrade to the “New! Ca’ d’Zan Experience Tour”. It costs about $50 more, but it is a guided tour that explores all five floors of Ca’ d’Zan. I can’t wait to see the panoramic views atop the Belvedere Tower.
According to their website, the “New! Ca’ d’Zan Experience Tour” is only offered at select times on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, and is limited to 8 participants.
Reason #4: The art museum is PINK
Okay, maybe that is not the only reason to visit the Art Museum, but it a pretty cool one. Just wait until you see all of the magnificent arches, and soaring marble colonnade. It is stunning. For a moment I wished I would have known about this place years ago, so I could have gotten married here! I can’t think of a more beautiful place. The museum’s pink architecture is a huge feast for the eyes.
Reason #5: The nostalgia of the Circus
Walking into the Circus Museum was like stepping back in time to my childhood. What is more iconic than the human cannon or the red circus stagecoach? You turn the corner into “The Big Show” and see several massive signs that Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailys Circus” used to showcase the “Bearded Lady” and other “Freak Show” performers. I was encompassed by the nostalgia of a time gone by.
They have vintage costumes on display that were worn by circus performers as well as many paintings, posters and videos of the traveling circus. This museum entertains kids and adults alike. And let’s face it. Who doesn’t want to visit the circus?
Spending the day at The Ringling is truly a one-of-a-kind experience in Sarasota, Florida. Whether you are looking to explore the grandeur of the architecture, take a closer look at the sculptures and artwork, absorb the history of the circus, or the beauty of the buildings, the museum is sure to please.
You may find it interesting that John Ringling was featured in TIME Magazine in 1925 as the thirteenth wealthiest man in America, but only got to enjoy his wealth for a few more years. He and his wife wintered on this property after it was completed in 1926 but in 1929 Mable passed away from diabetes complicated from Addison’s disease. Just a few years later John Ringling, the “King of the American Circus” died of pneumonia, at age 70. Upon John’s passing in 1936 the Ringling Estate was bequeathed to the people of Florida.
Here is the link to visit The Ringling
As always, safe travels my friend. Until next time.
Jen
Where should we explore next?
CampFrith Adventures 
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