Circus Museum

The Circus Museum: A Historical Overview

Established in 1948 by Arthur Austin Jr., the first director of The Ringling, the Circus Museum not only honors John Ringling but also holds the distinction of being the first museum in the U.S. to document the history of the American circus. Over the years, the museum has evolved, featuring a diverse collection in the original Rotunda gallery, a historic 1911 ticket wagon in the Center Gallery, John Ringling’s own historic wagon in the Wagon Room, and a variety of personal possessions showcased in the Ringling Family Galleries.

Main Attractions

One of the main attractions at the Circus Museum is the meticulously restored Pullman train that Mr. and Mrs. Ringling used to tour the country. The Historic Galleries offer a rich array of Asian, contemporary, Renaissance, and Baroque artwork, while the Tibbals Learning Center boasts the largest miniature circus in the world.

Both avid circus enthusiasts and casual visitors appreciate the museum’s immense attention to detail and the fascinating memorabilia displayed in the Tibbals Learning Center and Historic Galleries.

Location

The Circus Museum is part of the Ringling complex, located approximately 5 miles northwest of downtown Sarasota near the airport. Visitors can reach the property by driving, biking, or walking about a half-mile from the bus stop serving Breeze route 99.

Tickets

Standard admission includes entry to the Circus Museum, the Museum of Art, and the Bayfront Gardens. Tickets are priced at $30 per adult and $5 for children ages 6 to 16, while kids younger than 6 can enter for free. For an additional $15 per ticket, visitors can also access the first floor of Ca' d'Zan. It’s important to note that the Circus Museum is not included in the Ringling’s Free Monday promotion.

Hours

The Circus Museum welcomes visitors every day from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.