John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art – Sarasota
The Ringling is one of the state's most culturally diverse museums, and the campus grounds house three museums in one: the Art Museum, the Circus Museum, and the Ca' d'Zan. The home was erected in the 1920s by John Ringling, one of five brothers who ran the Ringling Bros. Circus. They collected art of many kinds while living there, and their personal things make up a large part of the permanent Art Museum collection. The original colorful glass windows, ancient furnishings, and stunning views of the water may all be seen inside the Ca' d'Zan, or House of John.
The Circus Museum, where original costumes and train cars celebrate the glamour of the Greatest Show on Earth, and a series of hallways and viewing platforms showcase a complete model of the entire circus in its heyday, right down to every animal, performer, and employee is a must-see for any visitor. The Ringling Museum is extremely accessible, with free admission to the grounds and Art Museum on Mondays, as well as discounts for students, teachers, and military personnel. It is a must-see for anyone visiting the Gulf Coast, as it is one of Florida's top museums.
Location: 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
Website: ringling.org/visit
