Photo: Tarun K
Photo: Jennifer Nicole Photography & Films
Photo: Lance Liberti
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
★4.8(9,386 reviews)$$Museum
🕑 3-4 hours👶 Best for ages 5 and up. The Circus Museum delights elementary-aged children with its interactive displays and fascinating circus history, while tweens and teens enjoy exploring the grand Ca' d'Zan mansion and art galleries. Toddlers can enjoy the outdoor gardens but may find the museum exhibits less engaging.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
The Ringling Museum offers a magical blend of art, history, and spectacle across a sprawling 66-acre estate on Sarasota Bay. Kids are captivated by the vintage circus wagons, colorful posters, and miniature circus at the Circus Museum, while parents appreciate the world-class art galleries and stunning Venetian Gothic mansion. The expansive gardens and bayfront views provide plenty of space for children to explore between museum visits.
Highlights
- ✓The Circus Museum featuring vintage circus wagons, costumes, and Howard Bros. Circus miniature with 44,000 hand-carved pieces
- ✓Ca' d'Zan mansion tours through the Ringlings' spectacular 56-room waterfront residence
- ✓Beautiful bayfront gardens and rose garden perfect for letting kids run and explore
- ✓Kid-friendly art scavenger hunts throughout the Museum of Art galleries
- ✓Interactive circus-themed activities and photo opportunities
Pro Tips
- 1.Start with the Circus Museum to capture kids' attention early, then reward them with garden exploration time between the art galleries and mansion tour
- 2.Thursday evenings stay open until 8:00 PM and tend to be less crowded,perfect for families who want more space to roam
- 3.Download the free museum app before visiting for self-guided tour options and scavenger hunt activities to keep kids engaged
- 4.Pack sunscreen and hats for exploring the outdoor grounds and gardens, which have limited shade in some areas
- 5.The museum is free on Mondays, making it an excellent budget-friendly option, though expect larger crowds
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Wednesday at 10:00 AM opening) for the smallest crowds, or take advantage of free admission Mondays if you don't mind more visitors. Winter months (November-April) offer the most comfortable weather for exploring the outdoor grounds and gardens.
What to Know
General admission is $25 for adults (13+) and free for children 12 and under; admission is free every Monday. The Museum Café offers lunch options, or bring picnic supplies to enjoy in the gardens. Parking is free and plentiful on-site.
Seasonal Notes
The museum hosts special family events during school breaks and holidays, including circus performances and art workshops. Summer can be extremely hot and humid for outdoor exploration, making fall through spring the ideal seasons to visit. The gardens are especially beautiful January through April when roses and other flowers are in bloom.
Nearby Eats
Owen's Fish Camp (2.5 miles away) offers casual seafood in a fun, rustic atmosphere with a kids' menu. For quicker bites, Yoder's Restaurant (4 miles away) serves Amish comfort food including pies that kids love, with generous portions and reasonable prices.
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