The Ringling
A museum, mansion and circus, on the bay.
Sarasota and Siesta Key
Florida's culture coast: John Ringling's circus museum, an art museum and a quartz-white beach, on the Gulf.
John Ringling made Sarasota his circus's winter home, and he left a Venetian palazzo, a fine art museum full of Rubens, and a huge model circus. Siesta Key's powdery beach is regularly ranked among the country's best.
- Best Time
- November–April
- Time Needed
- 2–3 days
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- Check before you go; hours vary by season
- Getting There
- About an hour by car south of Tampa.
What to See
1 of 3 are freeSiesta Key Beach
A cool sand beach of pure quartz.
Selby Gardens
Orchids and bromeliads on the bay.
Know Before You Go
- Hurricanes have hit this coast hard recently. Check for damage and closures.
Where to Stay
Stay on Siesta Key or downtown.
Where to Eat
Our picks are on the way.
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Traveler Reviews
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Go Next
If You're NearbyTampa and St. Petersburg
Florida
Gulf Coast beaches, the Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg and Busch Gardens.
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If You're NearbyNaples and Sanibel
Florida
Elegant Gulf beach towns, with a famous pier, and Sanibel's seashells and its wildlife refuge up the coast.
Full Guide
Last checked 2026-11-02. Part of the Florida list.