About
At The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, you’ll have a front-row seat to Baroque masterpieces, ancient Indian sculpture, early photography, and immersive contemporary installations.
The museum opened in 1930 thanks to circus owner John Ringling and his wife, Mable. They traveled the world collecting art, and their efforts created a lasting gift for Florida. Their private collection has grown into a large cultural landmark that showcases many cultures, styles, and techniques.
The museum is on a 66-acre bayfront estate in Sarasota, with plenty of galleries, the Bayfront Gardens, the Historic Asolo Theater, and Ca' d'Zan, the Ringlings' beautiful 1920s waterfront mansion.
Best of all, this cultural hub is just about a 25-minute drive from Siesta Beach and Siesta Key Village, so you can easily enjoy the surf and the arts.
Whether you're an art aficionado or seeking a family-friendly indoor activity, adding The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art to your itinerary is a must!
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art: Fun Facts & Cool Features
The museum's collection is larger than you might expect. You can look up details on almost 45,000 objects in The Ringling's online collection, which makes planning your visit simple.
The galleries have grown a lot since 1930, and the Baroque paintings are a highlight. Housed in ornate gold frames against elegant walls, these masterpieces are worth the trip alone.
For a great mix of art and nature, visit the museum and then take a walk through the nearby Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Together, these places offer an experience you’ll remember well after your trip.
You can also save money by planning your visit. The Museum of Art, Bayfront Gardens, and Glass Pavilion are free every Monday. If you like evening visits, Art After 5 happens on Thursdays from 5 to 8 PM at a lower price, giving you a different view of the collection.
The Kotler-Coville Glass Pavilion is a free bonus most visitors don't expect. Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, this 5,500-square-foot space showcases The Ringling's growing collection of vibrant studio glass. It also serves as an entry point to the Historic Asolo Theater.
All in all, The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is a smart stop on your Siesta Key vacation. You get world-class art, beautiful bayfront grounds, and plenty of ways to visit on a budget.
Local Tips
- Visit on a Monday for free entry to the Museum of Art, Bayfront Gardens, and Glass Pavilion.
- Come Thursday evening for Art After 5, open 5–8 PM at just $15 for adults.
- Arrive early to beat crowds and have time to explore the 66-acre estate.
- Buy tickets only at ringling.org — tickets from other sites are not valid.
