The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

Amazing Museum and grounds! We personally enjoyed touring the Ringling’s house, amazing art collection, and grounds more than the actual circus museum. The circus museum felt a little underwhelming, but the rest of the property makes up for it. The art collection was some of the best I have ever seen. The house tour was only the first floor unless you go at specific guided tour times. This would have been nice to know in advance with purchasing our ticket so we could have timed our day there to include the full house tour. It was still worth paying to see even though you can only see the first floor. Would highly recommend wearing comfortable shoes and bringing a refillable water bottle. Plan to spend at least 3-4 hours if wanting to tour the whole property. There is a restaurant on property if you would like to eat there as well.

We visited over Labor Day weekend in September and were pleasantly surprised that admission to the museum (select galleries) was still free, even though the holiday fell on a Monday. That was such a nice bonus. The territory is absolutely beautiful — it truly feels like you’re somewhere in Italy. The architecture, palm trees, and courtyard views create a very European atmosphere. The art galleries are impressive, with diverse collections and elegant exhibition spaces that are enjoyable to explore at a relaxed pace. Overall, a wonderful cultural experience and a place we would happily visit again.

Visited The Ringling in Sarasota and explored the gardens, nice experience. The entry was very reasonable (around $5 for the gardens), and it’s a great place to just walk around and take your time. Lots of greenery, beautiful open spaces, and a peaceful feel overall. We saw Ca’ d’Zan from the outside, and the architecture is impressive -it really stands out. There are also other spots like the museum areas and gift shop/cafe spaces, which add more to explore if you have time. I also liked how many of the trees and plants felt similar to what you’d see in India that was a nice, familiar touch. A good, relaxed visit if you’re in the area, especially for the price.

Wow! What an amazing time. This museum is so much more than we expected. Remember to visit the glass exhibit to the right of the entry before you leave. The circus museum is 2 floors of exciting exhibits. Many are interactive and very informative. I appreciated the set up in the way you could read and get so much information in a short time. The gardens leading the house and the play area for kids are a nice touch. The secret garden was a beautiful area and very serene. Mabel’s rose garden has been wonderfully taken care of and a beautiful relaxing place to take pictures. Ca ‘d Zan is a gorgeous home that is a must see. We only were able to see the first floor and the terrace out back, but it was well worth it. Pictures do not do this place justice and everyone in our group had a wonderful time. It really is a must see. There is a lot of walking.

It is worth the drive over to Sarasota for this! One of the most beautiful museums to visit. They have two museums dedicated to the Ringling circus history, the mansion tour on the water ($15 additional), a large garden, and then the stunning art museum. Their museum is small but mighty - some good finds in there for sure. There’s also a Starbucks on the second floor when you first enter which came in handy in such a hot day but keep in mind you cannot go into the museum with the drinks. I’d come back here again so I can really take my time in each area. Great photos.

I didn't have time to see everything because we got a late start but we did have a nice lunch there out on the patio and went through the Big Top building. There's an impressive amount of miniatures to see that shouldn't be missed. I would have loved to walk the grounds and seen more so I will definitely be going back. Of course, a stop in the gift shop on the way out is a must, as well.

I was pleasantly surprised. I had seen it on YouTube, but being there in person feels truly impressive. The gardens are exceptional, and the art galleries are nothing short of monumental. I didn’t get a chance to visit the Circus Museum; without a doubt, next time I’ll arrive earlier. The outdoor spaces are immersive, with settings that inevitably invite photography.

Well, I thought I gave this place a review last time I was in the area. I went to this amazing museum… I got to see some of the coolest trains, small and large under the big top and some of the posters from the circus and the model train set showing how the circus used to get set up. From the interior of the museum and all of the artwork and all the clown, memorabilia and Circus memorabilia if you’re in the area, this is a must see. I remember when the Ringling brothers train came to Fort lauderdale when I was a kid I remember this 40 -50 long old silver train with animals inside… thanks for the great memories