Circus Legacy Trail

Sarasota County’s circus story is rooted in legendary performers, influential families and places that shaped the American circus. A visit to The Ringling brings that history to life, from the Circus Museum and the intricate Howard Bros. Circus Model to Ca’ d’Zan, the Ringlings’ former winter home overlooking Sarasota Bay.

On nearby St. Armands Circle, the Circus Ring of Fame honors famous performers, innovators and behind-the-scenes legends through engraved plaques set among shops and cafés. Just steps away, Café on St. Armands occupies a building that once served as John Ringling’s real estate office, offering a meaningful pause in a place tied directly to Sarasota’s circus past.

Bob’s Train adds a unique chapter to the story. Housed inside four authentic Ringling circus railcars, this restaurant and museum highlights the era when the circus traveled by train, offering a tangible look at life on the road through memorabilia and historic details.

Behind the scenes, Show Folks of Sarasota represents the close-knit community of retired circus performers and families who made Sarasota their off-season home. While not open to the public, it remains an important symbol of how deeply circus culture is woven into the city’s identity.

South in Venice, the Ringling Bros. Circus Train Car at the Historic Venice Train Depot marks the years when Venice served as winter quarters for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, highlighting the railroad system that once moved the entire circus across the country.

Circus history is best experienced through storytelling. The Circus Secrets Trolley Tour from Discover Sarasota Tours guides visitors through historic circus neighborhoods while sharing insider stories about Ringling Bros., famous performers and Sarasota’s role as the Circus Capital of the World.

Throughout the year, visitors can also keep an eye out for seasonal offerings, including Circus Secrets of Venice and behind-the-scenes pop-up circus experiences that expand the story south into Venice.

After a full day of exploring, Cirque St. Armands Beachside offers a colorful, circus-inspired place to stay. While not a historic site, its playful theming makes it a fun home base for a circus-focused getaway.

Sarasota’s circus story is still being written today. The Circus Arts Conservatory carries the tradition forward through youth training at the Sailor Circus Academy and professional productions that showcase world-class talent.

For modern spectacle, Nik Wallenda’s Wonderland delivers daring stunts and performances from one of the world’s most famous circus families, typically during the November through January season.

For a truly hands-on moment, Tito Gaona’s Flying Trapeze School invites visitors to try flying trapeze under professional instruction, turning spectators into participants.

Animals played a memorable role in circus history, and Sarasota County offers meaningful ways to understand how that story has evolved. Big Cat Habitat Conservation and Education Center, founded by the Rosaire circus family, connects directly to Sarasota’s circus roots while focusing today on rescue, education and conservation.

At Myakka Elephant Ranch, encounters with African and Asian elephants help educate on these powerful animals and how modern facilities now center conservation and care.