The Ringling Retreat

A renovated oasis located minutes from the vibrant heart of downtown. The Ringling Retreat offers a perfect balance of modernity and unexpected charm inspired by the Ringling Circus. Located minutes from Downtown Restaurants and Shops, a 15-minute drive to the Beaches of Siesta and Lido Key, UTC Mall, and just a short walk to Gillespie Park. Complimentary yoga mats, beach gear, and toiletries. Book now for an unforgettable nostalgia-inspired stay!

LOCATION
Welcome to this charming downtown home with two designated parking spots on the property. Situated in a prime location, you'll find yourself surrounded by the vibrant atmosphere of Gillespie Park, a variety of enticing restaurants, and a convenient Hispanic supermarket, all within walking distance. Located in Park East, a vibrant neighborhood this community offers a perfect blend of urban convenience and natural beauty.

Park East is renowned for its proximity to the stunning Myakka River State Park, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of Florida's wilderness. Explore nature trails, go kayaking, or simply relax in the peaceful surroundings. For beach lovers, the sparkling shores of Siesta Key and Lido Key are just a short drive away, offering sun-soaked sands and crystal-clear waters.

FOR FOODIES
Park East is in close proximity to a variety of restaurants, ranging from cozy cafes to upscale dining establishments. Indulge in delectable cuisine that caters to all tastes, from fresh seafood to international flavors.

MINUTES TO CULTURAL EVENTS
The neighborhood's convenient location provides easy access to Sarasota's cultural and entertainment offerings. Visit the renowned Ringling Museum of Art, showcasing impressive collections of art and history. Catch a live performance at the Sarasota Opera House or the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Downtown Sarasota is a short distance away, offering a lively atmosphere with art galleries, shops, and a thriving nightlife.

NEARBY SHOPPING
Park East also boasts excellent shopping opportunities. Visit the nearby UTC Mall, where you'll find a wide range of stores, from popular brands to unique boutiques. Explore the local Saturday farmers' markets, where you can purchase fresh produce and artisanal goods.

GETTING AROUND IS EASY
Exploring the area is a breeze, thanks to the nearby Bay Runner stop at 2006-2008 Main Street (about a 10-minute walk). Simply head south on Washington Blvd, reach the corner of Main Street, and make a left turn to access this complimentary trolley service. Operating from Lido Key Beach to Downtown, the Bay Runner offers numerous stops along the way, allowing you to conveniently explore the city's attractions. To enhance your experience, we recommend downloading the free Bay Runner App, which provides additional information and a trolley schedule.

FOR REMOTE WORKERS
If you're a remote worker, you will discover your own peaceful sanctuary at the Ringling Retreat, where you can enjoy all the comforts of home. You will delight in the assistance provided by Mary to receive regular local tips and itineraries to enjoy some playtime during your time in Sarasota.


FOR CONTENT CREATORS
Our living room's lighting and decor provide a photogenic backdrop, perfect for making videos and capturing stunning photographs. Additionally, our property boasts numerous outdoor areas that offer exceptional filming and photography locations, all with their own unique charm. Please message Mary about special packages for hourly rates.

STEP INSIDE THE RINGLING RETREAT
Step right up to our charming retreat nestled among majestic oak trees and immerse yourself in the golden era of the Big Top in a neighborhood where the world-renowned Ringling Circus performers used to live and practice their death-defying feats. Step inside our newly renovated duplex that combines the whimsy of a circus theme with the sleek sophistication of mid-century modern design. 

OUTDOOR AMENITIES
 Relax in the shaded area in the front of the house after a busy day of working or sightseeing. Try your hand at corn hole or juggling in the seating area in front of the house. The duplex includes a shared side porch with a privacy screen where you can have a barbecue. Located next to a vibrant and bustling area, our home offers the perfect blend of convenience and natural beauty.

THE BEDROOMS
You'll find sweet dream accessories including ear plugs, your choice of soft or firm pillows, an aromatherapy diffuser with a selection of soothing essential oils, and an oscillating floor fan to help you get a good night's sleep.

AROMATHERAPY DIFFUSERS: Select from your choice of essential oils to add a bit of natural fragrance to your surroundings while you sleep. The diffusers shut off automatically after a few hours.

OSCILLATING FLOOR FANS: The floor fans provide cooling and a dose of white noise. There's a fan remote control on the nightstand.

THE KITCHEN
Enjoy our petite yet mighty kitchen where you'll find a variety of cooking and baking gadgets.  There's an overhead rack where you'll find an assortment of pans. The kitchen is always stocked with complimentary coffee, tea, spices for cooking, salt, pepper, and oil. The refrigerator is stocked with bottled water to keep you hydrated. 

THE DINING AREA
Settle yourself down at a table that can accommodate 4 people.

MAKESHIFT OFFICE DESK: The table also makes an excellent desk to sit at while you work on your laptop. Its location near a window makes for great lighting while you're on a Zoom call!

THE LIVING ROOM
Make yourself at home in the cozy living room. Mid-Century Modern furnishings with nostalgic circus poster prints adorn the walls. The sofa turns into an extra bed. Prop your feet up on one of the two leather poofs. There are lots of pillows handy to make yourself extra comfortable (all pillow covers and blankets are washed after each guest). Get the popcorn ready, pick out a favorite movie, and settle in for a spectacular movie night!

THE BATHROOM
We provide complimentary natural, gluten-free, vegan shampoo and conditioner for all hair types and your choice of body wash or soap. We also provide cotton balls, Q-tips, and toothpaste.

PAMPER YOURSELF: You're invited to soak in an Epson Salt bath to release any traveler's fatigue. You'll notice Eucalyptus hanging in the shower, releasing its healing fragrance as you shower.

COMPLIMENTARY LAUNDRY
You'll find private, complimentary use of a washer and dryer in a covered area decorated like a Big Top outside to the left of the duplex through the gate. There are laundry baskets with laundry detergent, stain remover, and softener sheets in each bedroom closet. There's also a drying rack for your use.

OTHER DETAILS TO NOTE
YOGA: Attention, yoga enthusiasts! Retrieve your yoga bag, complete with a yoga mat and natural mat cleaner, from each bedroom closet (4 yoga mats and bags total) and join one of the various complimentary yoga classes available in Sarasota and the surrounding area.

SUNSET PICNIC BACKPACK: Witness the breathtaking sunsets with our Sunset Picnic Backpack which offers a complete dining service for four, along with a beach blanket and wine glasses, providing everything you need to savor a stunning sunset in style.

PORTABLE BEACH GEAR: We have everything you need for an unforgettable beach experience, including beach towels, comfortable beach chairs that are compact so you can easily carry them, a stylish beach umbrella, and more!

ALL ORGANIC CLEANING PRODUCTS: We utilize solely natural cleaning products to maintain our space free from harmful chemicals. Additionally, we provide indoor slippers for your comfort during your stay, which you are welcome to keep.

ESSENTIAL OIL DIFFUSERS: In each bedroom, you'll find an essential oil diffuser with a variety of natural essential oils. This touch aims to enhance your stay by offering a soothing atmosphere and promoting restful sleep every night of your stay. The diffusers automatically shut off after a few hours.

WE HAVE POPCORN! Experience our circus-inspired theme to the fullest with the addition of complimentary freshly popped popcorn! Indulge in our nostalgic, old-fashioned-style popcorn, expertly prepared using a popper, perfect for a cozy movie night!

WANT ALL THE BEST TRAVEL TIPS BEFORE AND DURING YOUR STAY?
Mary is available to offer insider secrets to help you customize your visit to Sarasota and the surrounding area including the best parking spots near popular attractions, the most stunning beaches to watch the sunset, and incredible restaurants tailored to your tastes.

WE ARE HERE FOR YOU IN AN EMERGENCY: We strive to ensure a seamless experience at the Ringling Retreat, which includes recently installing a brand-new air conditioner, and hot water heater, and fully renovating the unit. Despite our best efforts, unexpected issues can arise, but you can rely on us to promptly resolve any concerns through a simple text message. Our priority is to make sure you can continue enjoying your stay without any interruptions.

We welcome you for an unforgettable stay!