Another Trip to the Ringling
đź“Ť Sarasota, Florida
Dress || Similar Sandals || Sunhat || Handbag || Earrings || Bracelet
A few weeks ago, we had the privilege of hosting David’s parents for their week in Florida. They still call Vermont home, and we only get to see them a few times a year. So, this was such an incredible treat! In fact, we realized that this was their first trip back to the Sunshine State since our wedding in 2018. My word! Where does the time go? While hosting, we wanted to make sure we sprinkled in some fun day trips and helped them explore new corners of Tampa Bay. An obvious choice was taking them to one of my favorite secrets in the area, Sarasota’s Ringling Museum!
The Ca’ d’Zan
When you arrive at the museum, make a bee-line for the Ca’ d’Zan. A lover of all things Venetian, the Ringlings were inspired by the Floating City in Italy to create a Gothic revival mansion steps from Sarasota Bay. In fact, Ca’ d’Zan translates to House of John in Venetian dialect. As you walk through the mansion, you can’t help and think, “if these walls could talk.” John and Mable Ringling would frequently hold extravagant parties here. Nearly 100 years later, every corner still oozes the opulence and gild associated with the Roaring Twenties.
Sarasota Bay
Not to be outdone is the bayfront façade. Here, you get a full view of the home’s stain-glassed windows and gothic features. It was enough to leave me speechless. Take a moment to take in spans of Sarasota Bay. On our most recent trip, there wasn’t a cloud in the sky, allowing for the colors of the stained glass to shine. Maybe next time, I’ll bring a book to sit on the steps that lead directly into the water.
The Gardens
After the Ca’ d’zan, we took the time to walk through the sprawling gardens on the Ringling property. Mrs. Kennedy is an avant gardeners and particularly loved this portion of our trip. Mable Ringling, in particular, had a very green thumb and took great pride in her work. Her greatest joy was the Rose Garden which serves as a central point to the museum. In total, there are about 66 acres of garden space, includes 14 sweeping Banyan trees that make you feel like you’re in an ancient forest. To take full advantage of the gardens, I recommend coming during the cooler Spring or Fall months.
The Art Museum
The piece de resistance of The Ringling must be the Art Museum. It’s the greatest testament to John Ringling’s legacy. The exterior is designed to look like a Renaissance Italian palace in the prettiest shade of pink. As you walk through the sweeping archways and statues, you instantly feel transported to Europe. Inside, there are 21 different galleries filled with Baroque and Late Medieval art straight from Ringling’s extensive collection. Throughout his life, he had acquired well over 1,000 pieces. Although I don’t have an art background, visiting art museums is one of my favorite pastimes. Walking through the museum was such a joy. I just can’t believe such a beautiful collection was right in my backyard all along.
What an experience! The Ringling Museum was the perfect excuse to visit Sarasota. As you plan a trip to the Gulf Coast, maybe even with your own in-laws, be sure to make time away from our world-renowned beaches for an opportunity to explore a different side of Florida. Happy travels!
Love from Florida,
Katie
As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.