The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota offers one of the most exciting and interesting things to do near Anna Maria Island with its unique history and eclectic art collections.
Established in 1927 by the circus and railroad baron John and Mable Ringling, you’ll find a number of amazing exhibits, live performances, programs, films, and events held there on any given day.
It’s certainly well worth the short 30-minute drive from Anna Maria Island during any family vacation, and it is a very family-friendly museum with plenty of fun exhibits and events for children, tours, and low admission fees.
A major Sarasota attraction
The Ringling Museum campus is quite large and extensive and covers over 66 acres with multiple historic and restored buildings. The campus includes the Ringling Museum of Art, the Circus Museum, the restored Asolo Theater, and the Cà d’Zan mansion, the Tibbals Learning Center, and a restaurant and café. You can purchase admission to the museums separately from the Cà d’Zan mansion to save a little money, or there are discounted packages available if you want to tour the mansion as well.
A world-renowned art gallery
John Ringling aspired to become one of the top art collectors in the world, and the Ringling Museum of Art features his extensive and impressive collection of art. 21 European, Asian, and American art galleries are spread out across the museum which is currently run by the state of Florida. The collection includes a total of over 10,000 objects while the most exclusive items are the 16th to 20th Century European paintings.
Check out the Circus Museum with the kids
The Circus Museum showcases the remarkable Howard Bros. Circus Model, a 44,000-piece miniature circus with amazingly intricate details that took over 50 years to create. The exhibits detail the story of the evolution of the circus from its earliest days to the modern Cirque du Soleil. A wide range of different artifacts from the Ringling Bros’ original traveling circus are also held in this museum.
Plan Your Trip
The Ringling Museum is widely considered to be a top Sarasota attraction and it is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day, so definitely get to Sarasota and check it out the next time you stay on Anna Maria Island! Find the best Anna Maria Island rental now.
Cà d’Zan is well worth the extra entry fee
As many former visitors will tell you, the Cà d’Zan mansion is well worth the extra entry fee. It’s a beautiful restored mansion that showcases the style and flair of John Ringling and his Venetian inspirations. There you’ll find vast painted ceilings, Venetian Gothic architecture and interior décor, and splendid views that overlook the Sarasota Bay. Guided tours of the home are available for a fee, as well as self-guided tours at a lower cost.
There are also frequent movie screenings at the restored Asolo Theater, family programs, and other special events that can be checked out ahead of time by viewing the Ringling Museum website or calling ahead at (941)-359-5700.
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