The Ringling in Sarasota offers visitors multiple pathways and trails to explore its beautiful grounds.

The main pathway, known as the Museum Walk, is a 1.2-mile long trail that encircles the entire property. This pathway takes you past the Ca’ d’Zan mansion, the Circus Museum, the Bayfront Gardens, and the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. The Museum Walk is a paved trail that is easy to walk on and provides scenic views of the Sarasota Bay.

For a shorter walk, visitors can explore the 66-acre Bayfront Gardens, which feature lush landscaping, sculptures, and water features. There are numerous pathways throughout the gardens that offer a variety of walking routes, including a circular path around the Reflecting Pool area.

The elevation changes at The Ringling are minimal, making it a leisurely walk for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. The pathways are well-maintained and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.

Overall, The Ringling offers a peaceful and scenic setting for visitors to enjoy leisurely walks and explore the beauty of this historic estate.

The best time to visit The Ringling in Sarasota, Florida, is during the off-season months of September through November or February through April. During these times, you can expect fewer crowds and more pleasant weather conditions compared to the peak tourist season.

Peak tourist season at The Ringling typically occurs from December through January and June through August. These months can bring larger crowds, longer wait times, and higher temperatures and humidity levels, which may impact your overall enjoyment of the visit.

Weather conditions in Sarasota are generally mild and sunny throughout the year. However, temperatures can be quite hot and humid during the summer months, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. The winter months offer cooler and more comfortable temperatures, making it an ideal time to explore the outdoor grounds of The Ringling.

Special events are held at The Ringling throughout the year, including art exhibitions, performances, and festivals. Check the official website or local tourism resources for updates on upcoming events during your planned visit.

Overall, visiting The Ringling during the off-season months of September through November or February through April can provide a more enjoyable and less crowded experience, with milder weather conditions to enhance your visit.

The Ringling in Sarasota, Florida, holds significant cultural and historical importance as it is the legacy of John Ringling, one of the five Ringling brothers who owned and operated the famous Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. John Ringling was the visionary behind the creation of the Ringling estate, which includes the Ringling Museum of Art, Ca’ d’Zan mansion, the Circus Museum, and the historic Asolo Theater.

The Ringling Museum of Art, established in 1927, is home to an impressive collection of European and American art, including works by Rubens, Van Dyck, Veronese, and many others. The museum reflects John Ringling’s passion for collecting art and his desire to create a cultural destination in Sarasota.

The Ca’ d’Zan mansion, built in the Venetian Gothic style, was the winter residence of John and Mable Ringling. The mansion is a symbol of the couple’s extravagant lifestyle and their love for art and culture. It serves as a glimpse into the opulent Roaring Twenties era and showcases the couple’s eclectic taste in design and architecture.

The Circus Museum at The Ringling is dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of the American circus. Visitors can explore vintage circus wagons, costumes, posters, and memorabilia that highlight the colorful and fascinating world of the circus. The museum pays homage to the Ringling brothers’ contribution to the circus industry and their role in shaping American entertainment.

Additionally, The Ringling is home to the historic Asolo Theater, a replica of an 18th-century Italian theater that was transported to Sarasota in the 1950s. The theater hosts a variety of performances, including plays, opera, and dance, adding to the cultural richness of the estate.

Overall, The Ringling in Sarasota offers a unique blend of art, history, and entertainment that reflects the legacy of John Ringling and his impact on the cultural landscape of Florida. It stands as a testament to the enduring influence of the Ringling family and their contribution to the arts in America.

1. The Courtyard: The courtyard at The Ringling is a picturesque spot with lush greenery, beautiful architecture, and a stunning fountain. The best time to capture photos here is in the morning when the light is soft and the shadows are long.

2. The Rose Garden: The Rose Garden at The Ringling is a colorful oasis with hundreds of varieties of roses in full bloom. The best time to photograph the roses is in the late afternoon when the sun is starting to set, casting a warm glow over the garden.

3. The Ca’ d’Zan: The Ca’ d’Zan is the historic mansion on The Ringling grounds and is an architectural masterpiece. The best time to photograph the mansion is during the golden hour, just before sunset, when the warm light bathes the building in a beautiful glow.

4. The Bayfront Gardens: The Bayfront Gardens at The Ringling offer stunning views of Sarasota Bay and are filled with beautiful landscaping, sculptures, and water features. The best time to photograph the gardens is in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and the colors are vibrant.

5. The Circus Museum: The Circus Museum at The Ringling is a fun and colorful spot for photography, with exhibits showcasing the history of the circus. The best time to photograph the museum is in the morning before it gets too crowded, allowing you to capture the vibrant colors and unique displays.

Overall, early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for photography at The Ringling, as the light is softer and more flattering during these times. Additionally, visiting during the weekdays when there are fewer crowds can also make it easier to capture beautiful photos without distractions.

Visitors to The Ringling in Sarasota praise the stunning grounds and architecture, highlighting the beautiful gardens and the variety of cultural attractions offered. Many recommend taking a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and art collections. Some suggest planning to spend a full day at the museum to explore all it has to offer. Additionally, local tips include visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds and taking advantage of special events and exhibits that are frequently held at The Ringling.

The Ringling in Sarasota offers rentals for bicycles, mobility scooters, and wheelchairs to enhance the visitor’s experience while exploring the museum campus and the beautiful grounds.

1. Bicycle Rentals:

- Rates:

- Members: $5 per hour

- Non-members: $10 per hour

- Requirements:

- Must be 18 years or older

- A photo ID and a credit card are required for rentals

- Availability:

- Bicycles are available on a first-come, first-served basis

2. Mobility Scooter Rentals:

- Rates:

- Members: $20 per day

- Non-members: $25 per day

- Requirements:

- Must be 18 years or older

- A photo ID and a credit card are required for rentals

- Availability:

- Mobility scooters are available in limited quantities

3. Wheelchair Rentals:

- Rates:

- Members: $5 per day

- Non-members: $10 per day

- Requirements:

- Must be 18 years or older

- A photo ID and a credit card are required for rentals

- Availability:

- Wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis

Please note that availability may vary, and it is recommended to inquire about rentals in advance by contacting The Ringling directly. Rental fees may be subject to change, and additional terms and conditions may apply.

For more information on bicycle, mobility scooter, and wheelchair rentals at The Ringling in Sarasota, please visit their official website or contact their visitor services for assistance.

The Ringling in Sarasota, Florida is a unique attraction that stands out for several reasons. First and foremost, The Ringling encompasses a variety of cultural experiences all in one place. Visitors can explore the impressive John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, which houses a vast collection of European paintings, American art, and Asian artifacts. The museum itself is a work of art, with stunning architecture and beautiful gardens that provide a peaceful and inspiring setting for visitors.

In addition to the art museum, The Ringling also features the historic Ca’ d’Zan mansion, once the winter home of John and Mable Ringling. This opulent residence offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Ringlings during the Roaring Twenties, with its grand rooms, intricate architectural details, and breathtaking views of Sarasota Bay.

Furthermore, The Ringling is home to the Circus Museum, which pays tribute to Sarasota’s history as the winter headquarters of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Visitors can learn about the evolution of the circus, see colorful costumes and props, and even try their hand at circus skills in the interactive exhibits.

Overall, The Ringling is an attraction that offers something for everyone. Art lovers can immerse themselves in world-class exhibitions, history buffs can explore the legacy of the Ringling family, and families can enjoy a fun and educational experience at the Circus Museum. With its diverse offerings and scenic surroundings, The Ringling is best suited for visitors who appreciate art, history, and culture, as well as those looking for a memorable and enriching day out in Sarasota.

1. Ca’ d’Zan Tower Tours: While many visitors explore the beautiful Ca’ d’Zan mansion, not everyone knows about the opportunity to take a special tower tour. These guided tours take guests up to the top of the tower for stunning views of the surrounding area and allow them to learn more about the architecture and history of the building.

2. Secret Gardens: The Ringling is home to several hidden gardens that provide peaceful retreats away from the crowds. Visitors can explore the Mable Ringling Rose Garden, the Dwarf Garden, and the Secret Garden, all of which offer beautiful landscaping, serene atmospheres, and unique plantings.

3. Historic Asolo Theater: Tucked away on the Ringling grounds is the Historic Asolo Theater, a beautifully restored 18th-century Italian theater that was brought from Venice to Sarasota. Guests can attend performances, film screenings, and other events in this intimate and historic space.

4. Art Library: Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Ringling’s Art Library, which houses a collection of over 14,000 volumes on art and architecture. Visitors can browse the shelves, study rare books and manuscripts, or participate in lectures and workshops held in the library.

5. Conservation and Research Center: The Ringling’s Conservation and Research Center, located off-site, is dedicated to the preservation and study of the museum’s vast collection. While not open to the public, this facility plays a crucial role in ensuring the long-term care and conservation of the Ringling’s artworks.

Exploring these hidden gems at The Ringling can offer visitors a deeper understanding and appreciation of this cultural treasure in Sarasota.

Before visiting The Ringling in Sarasota, it is important to be aware of the following safety protocols and regulations:

1. Face masks: Face masks are required for all visitors, staff, and volunteers while indoors, regardless of vaccination status. Masks must be worn covering both the nose and mouth at all times.

2. Social distancing: Please maintain a safe distance of at least six feet from other visitors not in your group. Follow any posted signage and floor markings to help with social distancing.

3. Hand hygiene: Hand sanitizer stations are available throughout the museum for visitors to use. It is important to practice good hand hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water or using hand sanitizer.

4. Health screening: Visitors are encouraged to self-screen for symptoms of COVID-19 before visiting The Ringling. If you are feeling unwell or experiencing symptoms, please stay home and reschedule your visit for another time.

5. Capacity limits: The Ringling may have capacity limits in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Follow any instructions from staff regarding capacity limits and wait times.

6. Contactless payment: Whenever possible, use contactless payment methods to minimize contact with surfaces. Credit/debit cards are preferred over cash for transactions.

7. Enhanced cleaning: The Ringling has implemented enhanced cleaning and sanitization protocols throughout the museum to help keep visitors safe. Please be mindful of keeping the space clean and report any concerns to staff.

8. Follow staff instructions: Please follow any instructions or guidelines provided by museum staff to help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit for all visitors.

By following these safety protocols and regulations, visitors can help create a safe and welcoming environment at The Ringling for everyone to enjoy. Thank you for your cooperation!

Some notable bird species that can be observed at The Ringling in Sarasota include:

1. Wood Stork

2. Roseate Spoonbill

3. Great Blue Heron

4. Brown Pelican

5. Osprey

6. Bald Eagle

7. American White Pelican

8. Black Skimmer

9. Snowy Egret

10. Limpkin