When speaking with guests planning their vacations, we always get asked about the best things to do in Siesta Key, FL. It can sometimes be hard to offer suggestions since there’s so much to experience that it’s challenging to narrow it down! Bars, beaches, shops, museums, and more, it’s all here for you to explore. One thing is for sure, though: The Ringling is an attraction that we would recommend to nearly anyone coming to stay in our Siesta Key vacation rentals.
The Ringling is not simply a home or a museum; it offers so many different attractions and exhibits that you could spend the entire day exploring them all!
Just a short trip away in the city of Sarasota, you’ll find The Ringling, the property initially owned by the circus Just a short trip away in the city of Sarasota, you’ll find The Ringling, the property initially owned by circus mogul John Ringling and his wife, Mable. If you are looking for something to do when you aren’t on a Siesta Key beach, here’s everything you can discover when visiting the Ringling Museum in Sarasota.
Museum of Art
Throughout his travels across Europe, John Ringling began to amass quite an impressive art collection. Then, in 1925, he decided to turn his collection into an official museum to help educate and engage the locals and teach them about the world. Guests can still visit the Museum of Art today and see many of the original works that Ringling owned and countless pieces that have been added since the initial opening in 1930.
Guests are welcome to wander through the museum and observe the incredible paintings and works of art from across the world. While you’re there, be sure to check out some of the unique galleries as well, including the Ting Tsung and Wei Fong Chao Center for Asian Art and the Keith D. and Linda L. Monda Gallery for Contemporary Art. Visitors of all ages are sure to be impressed by the talent on display within these walls.
Circus Museum
If there’s one thing that John Ringling is known for, it’s his influence on the circus. Then, it only makes sense that there would be an entire Circus Museum at The Ringling! This museum was established in 1948 and showcased many of the original pieces used in the Barnum and Bailey Circus. You can find everything from performing props to wardrobe pieces to wagons, rings, and even a cannon!
In recent years, the Circus Museum has gone through a considerable expansion and now includes countless posters, several interactive galleries, rare handbills and art prints, and so much more. You can see what it might have been like to perform in the circus in Ringling’s time, whether you observe the exhibits or squeeze into a clown car for yourself! Adults will feel like kids again as they experience the wonder of the circus in a whole new way.
Ca’ d’Zan
If you want to experience what it might have been like to live in Sarasota in the days of the Ringlings, then you have to visit the Ca’ d’Zan. This stunning property was John and Mable’s home for three years; construction was completed in 1926, but sadly, Mable passed away just three years later. These days, guests come from far and wide to explore the 36,000-square-foot home with its unique and breathtaking European influence.
Even though Ca’ d’Zan found itself in disrepair by the 1990s, it was soon repaired and restored to its former glory. As you explore the home, you’ll find beautiful features such as the original paintings and furnishings that the Ringlings collected, a crystal chandelier from the original Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, a massive dining table set up with 22 chairs, and more. Not a far trip from our Siesta Key village rentals, you can explore the luxury that the Ringlings created during their days in the area.
Bayfront Gardens
When you visit The Ringling in Sarasota, you don’t just have to explore the indoor attractions. You can also head outside to stroll around the Bayfront Gardens. Stop by The Ringling Arboretum to see more than 2,300 trees, both native and exotic, across the grounds. You’ll also want to visit Mable Ringling’s Rose Garden, which many consider being one of the loveliest spots on the grounds. You’ll find dozens of rose varieties that Mabel herself planted in the gardens.
Additionally, you can head north of Ca’ d’Zan to reach The Secret Garden, where the Ringling family would often entertain their guests in the winter months. Finally, don’t miss The Dwarf Garden, which features gorgeous statues that John Ringling brought to his home from his travels through Italy. Guests are welcome to explore the grounds all year long, and guided tours are available from November through March.
Historic Asolo Theater
John Ringling had quite a passion for the theater, which is why the museum’s first director purchased an 18th-century Italian theater for the property in 1949. It moved into its current building in 1958. After going through an extensive restoration starting in 2000, the Historic Asolo Theater is now one of the unique places to appreciate the arts in Sarasota.
As with any theater, the performances and exhibitions will vary from month to month. You may be able to experience fascinating talks and lectures, in-depth documentaries, breathtaking musical performances, and other unique events. To learn what’s going on during your trip and purchase tickets to any event, visit The Ringling’s website.
The Education Centers
While The Ringling is meant to be entertaining, it can also be incredibly educational. The Johnson-Blalock Education Center is a dedicated space where kids and adults alike can learn about art, the collections throughout The Ringling property, and the conservation efforts that the staff has undertaken.
The Art Library was Opened here in 1946 and is now one of the most extensive art research libraries in the southern United States. Guests are welcome to browse the stacks and pick out a book to read in the Reading Room, which provides a breathtaking view of the museum’s grounds. You can also visit the Conservation Lab, where you can get an in-depth look into how the staff has maintained the property and its collections over the years.
Plan Your Visit
Want to come to experience The Ringling for yourself? Contact The Cottages on the Key today to book your trip to our shores!
Hours and Pricing
Now that you know all the fun stuff you can explore at The Ringling, you need to know how to get involved! Guests are welcome to visit The Ringling from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; the facility is only closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
The Ringling recommends that you purchase your tickets online to avoid waiting in line on the day of your visit, but it is not required. Your standard admission price includes entry into the Museum of Art, Bayfront Gardens, and Circus Museum. For this ticket, adults pay $25, kids 6-17 pay $5, and kids 5 and under are free. If you’d also like to visit the first floor of Ca’ d’Zan, you’ll be asked to pay an additional $10. If you’re looking to save some money, visit on Mondays when the Museum of Art and the Bayfront Gardens are open for free!
The Ringling Bros. Museum in Sarasota is by far one of the most popular attractions with both locals and guests in our Siesta Key beachfront rentals.
Book Your Siesta Key Rental With Us
Discover the epitome of luxury during your Siesta Key retreat at The Cottages on the Key. This unparalleled haven offers an extraordinary getaway, be it a romantic escape or a memorable family vacation. Immerse yourself in the charm of our inviting accommodations, featuring spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and a host of amenities. Start your Siesta Key adventure today by exploring our diverse range of vacation rentals at The Cottages on the Key!