Clowning around in Sarasota Florida at The Ringling Circus Museum

Origionally Posted on March 5, 2017 by Mr. Bill’s Travel Blog

If you ever find yourself in Sarasota with some time to spare, may I suggest a delightful visit to The Ringling | Circus Museum? It’s one of those places that captures the magic and history of the circus in a way that will transport you back to the golden age of entertainment under the big top.

Now, I have to admit, our visit to Sarasota wasn’t just by chance. In fact, visiting the Circus Museum was our main reason for traveling to this charming city. Of course, we couldn’t resist making a pit stop at Yoder’s Amish Restaurant & Amish Village—a local gem that deserves its own post. So, I’ll leave the mouthwatering details of Yoder’s for another day!

The Circus Museum: A World of Wonders

As soon as you step into the Circus Museum, you’re greeted by a sense of wonder and nostalgia that only the circus can evoke. One of the first things that took my breath away was the incredible Howard Bros. Circus Model. This meticulously crafted display features 44,000 pieces, each one representing a piece of circus history. You could spend hours marveling at the intricate details of this model—tiny performers, animals, and circus tents that bring the past to life in a way that’s both mesmerizing and awe-inspiring.

But that’s just the beginning. The museum is also home to the newly restored Wisconsin, the private railroad car that once belonged to John and Mable Ringling. Now, if you’re a fan of history like me, you’ll appreciate just how significant this piece is. The “Wisconsin: wasn’t just any railroad car; it was a mobile home that allowed the Ringlings to travel in comfort and style as they crisscrossed the country searching for talent to dazzle circus audiences. Inside, you’ll find an observation room, bedrooms, a dining room, and even servants’ quarters. The Ringlings might have been on the road, but they certainly didn’t leave their comforts behind!

Walking through this car gives you a sense of the grandeur and ambition of the Ringling legacy. Though it’s not as opulent as the Ringling Mansion, it’s still a testament to the life they lived—a life of adventure, excitement, and, of course, showmanship.

More to Explore

Believe me, I took more pictures than I can count, so this will be just the first of several posts dedicated to The Ringling | Circus Museum and the broader Ringling Estate. There’s so much to see here, from the rich collection of circus memorabilia to the beautifully landscaped grounds. And don’t worry, if accessibility is a concern, the entire estate is wheelchair-friendly, making it a welcoming place for all visitors.

Whether you’re a circus lover, a history buff, or simply someone who enjoys a unique day out, the Ringling Museum is a must-see. The beautiful estate alone is worth a visit, with its lush gardens and sculptures that create a peaceful and picturesque setting. There’s something truly special about walking these grounds, knowing that so much history was made here.

Our Pilgrimage as Clowns

Now, I have a bit of a personal connection to the circus. You see, being clowns ourselves, this visit felt like something of a pilgrimage. (One day, I might share a few pictures of us in full clown attire—though I’ll be sure to post a warning for those who aren’t fond of clowns. We certainly don’t want to scare anyone!) As clowns, we try to bring joy to children and comfort to those who need it most. There’s something magical about the way a little bit of laughter can lift someone’s spirits, even on their darkest days.

A Few Parting Thoughts

Before I wrap up, let me share with you one of the most important lessons I’ve learned through my travels: wherever you go, and whatever you see, make sure to share it with others. Life is too short not to stop and appreciate the little things—a beautiful view, a kind word, a shared meal with friends. These are the moments that create memories to last a lifetime.

So, whether you’re visiting Sarasota for the circus, for Yoder’s famous pies, or just to enjoy the sunny Florida weather in beautiful Sarasota Florida, I hope you’ll take the time to slow down, smile at a stranger, and soak in the beauty around you. Who knows what kind of memories you’ll make along the way?

All photographs in this post were taken by yours truly—Bill McQueen, amateur photographer, food enthusiast, and occasional traveler. Stay tuned for more posts on our Sarasota adventures!

If you’re wondering whether the Circus Museum in Sarasota is handicap accessible, I’m happy to say it is!

The entire museum, along with the Ringling Estate, has been designed to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges. Ramps and elevators are available throughout the property, so getting around is easy and comfortable. Accessible parking is close to the entrance, and the pathways around the beautiful grounds are smooth and easy to navigate. Inside the museum, exhibits are set up to ensure that everyone, regardless of mobility, can enjoy the rich history and vibrant displays of circus memorabilia. So, if you or a loved one requires wheelchair access, rest assured you’ll be able to fully experience all the museum has to offer!