





Children's Museums
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
📍 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243🕐 Hours
| Monday | 10 AM–5 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10 AM–5 PM |
| Wednesday | 10 AM–5 PM |
| Thursday | 10 AM–8 PM |
| Friday | 10 AM–5 PM |
| Saturday | 10 AM–5 PM |
| Sunday | 10 AM–5 PM |
About The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
Antiquities to modern works on display. State art museum founded by the circus magnate with 31 galleries in a pink Renaissance-style palace. Founded by circus magnate John Ringling, the museum houses nearly 45,000 objects in its collection and is housed in a pink Renaissance-style palace. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 9,579 visitors.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Art Museum
- Best For
- All ages
- Highlights
- Baroque masterpieces, contemporary installations, ancient sculpture, 45,000+ objects
- Special Pricing
- Free Mondays; Art After 5 Thursday 5-8pm $15 adults, $5 kids 6-17
- Collection Access
- Online collection database with nearly 45,000 objects
💡 Did You Know?
- Founded by circus magnate John Ringling, the museum houses nearly 45,000 objects in its collection and is housed in a pink Renaissance-style palace
- The museum features 31 galleries displaying works spanning from ancient Indian sculpture to contemporary installations, including Baroque masterpieces
- Offers free admission to the Museum of Art every Monday for Florida residents and visitors, making it one of the most accessible art museums in the state
- The property includes Ca' d'Zan, the mansion built in the 1920s that reflects John Ringling's wealth from the circus empire, available for guided tours
- Features an interactive miniature circus model at the Tibbals Learning Center, allowing visitors to explore a detailed representation of circus life and entertainment history
💬 What Visitors Say
- Visit on Mondays for free admission to the Museum of Art, Bayfront Gardens, and Glass Pavilion. No registration needed if you purchase tickets online in advance, or register at the Visitors Pavilion upon arrival.
- Plan for at least 5+ hours to explore the entire property without rushing, including the art galleries, gardens, Ca' d'Zan mansion, and miniature circus model. The grounds are expansive and reveal new details with each visit.
- Visit during off-season or weekdays rather than holiday weekends to avoid crowds. Presidents Day and Labor Day weekend draw significantly larger crowds, impacting your ability to enjoy the galleries and gardens comfortably.
- Take the Ca' d'Zan mansion tour for a fascinating look into 1920s life and the Ringlings' remarkable history. The interactive miniature circus model is also a standout exhibit not to miss.
- Explore The Ringling's online collection of nearly 45,000 objects before your visit to identify must-see pieces and artworks. This helps you prioritize what to view during your time on-site.
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