Circus Secrets of Sarasota

The History of CIRCUS CITY USA!

Discover Circus City USA’s secret places and charming stories on this unforgettable Circus Secrets tour! This 90-minute tour of the circus legacy in Sarasota provides a wonderful historical perspective of the impact the circus has had in our area and let’s you know why Sarasota is called CIRCUS CITY USA!

Led by guide, Bob Collins, veteran Ringling Bros. Head of Advancement, the tour focuses on the rich history of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus in Sarasota. Stop by circus landmarks to learn about the colorful cast of circus characters, showmen, and performers who called Sarasota home.

See the Circus Arts Conservatory, Circus Playground, St. Armands Ring of Fame, St. Martha’s Catholic Church, the gorilla house, The Sarasota Opera House and many more circus “secrets” hidden in plain sight on this charming tour. Meander through historic neighborhoods such as Indian Beach, Payne Park, and Downtown’s Main Street to learn about the rich history of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, which moved its Winter Quarters to Sarasota in 1927.

If you want to include lunch at the new circus-themed restaurant Cirque Ringside, book the Circus Secrets Tour + Lunch option.

ALL guests must be 10+.

Every guest must have a paid ticket in order to board.

Tour ticket includes FREE Parking!

THE REVIEWS ARE IN!

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Circus Secrets and more Revealed! Excellent, informative tour!
The tour guide Bob told some really great stories of the impact on the circus in Sarasota, FL. He had first hand knowledge of the Ringling circus. I really loved the personal artifacts and photos he passed around during the trolley tour. The trolley is a fun summer activity. The trolley driver did an excellent job of getting us around Sarasota… The house where you check in for the trolley is filled with great vintage gifts and books. Looking forward to taking many more tours. Thank you.  — Colleen

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Loved it
An amazing and interesting perspective on the history of Sarasota, and how impactful the circus industry has been on it. Our guide, Bob Collins, was very engaging and kind; he made our experience with the tour extremely delightful. If I ever return to Sarasota, I’ll be sure to check out another tour. — Alexander

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Circus
Just a fabulous, tour filled with more information than I could retain! I would do it again in the future! Had the best day! — Debbie S.