Ringling Museum of the Circus

The Ringling Museum of the Circus is located in Sarasota, Florida, and is part of the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. This museum complex preserves the legacy of the Ringling Brothers circus, which was founded by a family of brothers in the late 19th century. The circus grew from a small troupe into a major entertainment enterprise, eventually merging with the Barnum & Bailey Circus to become the renowned Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Combined Shows.123

The museum showcases original circus wagons and artifacts, offering a glimpse into the history of American circus life. While the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus ceased operations in 2017 due to declining attendance and controversies surrounding animal treatment, the museum continues to honor its significant place in entertainment history. The circus itself resumed touring in 2023 with animal-free shows.13