South of Tampa along the Gulf of Mexico
The development of Sarasota and its surrounding areas are due to John Ringling, the “King of the Circus”, who bought acres of land which became St. Armands, Lido and Longboat Key. Then, he had built his Venetian Mediterrian style mansion overlooking the bay, which even has a connection to many nations! The Hungarian Willi Pogany painted the ballroom’s ceiling with the theme The Dancers of the Nations showing dancing couples from 16 nations. He also painted the foyer and the game room. The circus exhibitions (items, clothing, railroad car, the train of Ringling) located in two buildings. The Ringling’s exceptional art collection fills two wings of the art galleries at the Ringling Museum of Art. There is a lovely garden between the wings. The Ringling Museum is truly an outstanding place to discover!