4 Amazing Must-Visit Museums in Sarasota

July 13, 2021
| 19:13 PM

From a classic car museum to an impeccable circus museum, we’ve rounded up the 5 must-visit museums in Sarasota during your next visit.

Even though Tampa Bay is known for its beaches, amusement parks, and dining experiences, the museums are not to go unnoticed! The museums in Sarasota provide the area with a wealth of knowledge, discovery, and more. One step inside these beautiful museums and you’ll soon be transported to a different time.

Perfect for a rainy day, a fun day date, and family bonding, here are the 4 must-visit museums in Sarasota!

The Ringling

📷 The Ringling

A trip to Sarasota to explore The Ringling Museum should definitely be on your Florida bucket list! This 66 acre estate was the legacy of John and Mable Ringling. The Ringling Museum of Art is the state art museum of Florida and has a remarkable collection of artwork, statues, circus history, and so much more.

While at The Ringling, which overlooks Sarasota bay, you can also tour the Circus Museum, Ca’ d’Zan Mansion, The Historic Asolo Theater and the extensive gardens! Be prepared to spend a whole day here, it’s absolutely worth it!

Hours & Location
Daily | 10AM-5PM
Thursday | 10AM-8PM

📍5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243

Website

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

📷The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is the largest natural and cultural history museum on Florida’s Gulf Coast with a ton of engaging exhibits! The planetarium experience is by far, one of our favorites exhibits ever! It’s very unique and informative. The manatee exhibit is another top priority for us.

The Bishop Museum is perfect for kids to explore and learn more about Florida’s history for the prehistoric to the present! In addition to the permanent exhibits here, the museum also features a constantly changing lineup of temporary exhibitions. Head to this museum to constantly discover something new!

Hours & Location
Monday-Tuesday | Closed
Wednesday-Saturday | 10AM-4PM
Sunday | 12PM-5PM

📍201 10th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205

Website

The Sarasota Museum of Art

📷 The Sarasota Museum of Art

The Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College is a contemporary art museum that’ll really get you into an artistic mindset. The museum has 15,000 square feet of dedicated exhibition gallery space, a lovely bistro, gift shop, auditorium for events and performances, an incredible sculpture courtyard and so much more. The Sarasota Arm Museum is the spot to come with an open mind so you’ll leave with a mind (and heart) of brilliance. The art here is top-notch, extremely moving, and fills you up with that art-loving feeling. The building itself is beautiful and the space overall is very delightful!

Hours & Location
Monday | 10AM-5PM
Tuesday | Closed
Wednesday-Saturday | 10AM-5PM
Sunday | 11AM-5PM

📍1001 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236

Website

Sarasota Classic Car Museum

📷 Sarasota @jankovic_zdenko

Calling all car lovers! The Sarasota Classic Car Museum is recognized as the second oldest continuously operating antique car museum in the nation and it’s definitely worth a visit! They have a unique collection of about 100 vintage cars in tip-top shape!

The 60,000 square foot facility is constantly rotating their collection of classic cars too! The coolest part is that the displays are rare cares and some even owned by famous people! The rare collection is incredible and a cool place to take anyone you know who loves and appreciates cars. Plus, word on the street is John Lennon’s car is housed here!

Hours & Location
Daily | 9AM-6PM

📍5500 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243

Website

5 Must Visit Museums in Sarasota

The museums in Sarasota are great for letting your mind wander or learn something new. These museums are great for going solo or with the whole family!

Tag us when you visit one of these museums in Sarasota at @stufftodointampabay on Facebook or Instagram!

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Curated by

Haley Haman

Haley is a blogger for the Stuff to Do in Tampa Bay City Guide. For more insight on the best events and things to do in the Tampa Bay area, ...