Entire home

The Ringling Retreat

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Enjoy a tranquil beach experience with a lifeguard tower and staircase overlooking the calm sea.
Enjoy a home-cooked meal in this well-equipped kitchen with a stove, oven, and dining area.
Cozy retreat with a large bed, nightstand, and table, plus a framed picture and mirror.
Guest house with a patio area featuring Adirondack chairs and a bench, surrounded by trees.
Enjoy meals and social gatherings in this stylish living space with a dining table, coffee bar, and comfortable seating area.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4600 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Air conditioning
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Sarasota, FL
  • Ed Smith Stadium
    ‪18 min walk‬
  • Marina Jack
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Sarasota, FL (SRQ-Sarasota-Bradenton Intl.)
    ‪8 min drive‬

Room options

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About the neighborhood

Sarasota

Located in Central Sarasota, this vacation home is a leisurely stroll from sights such as Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe and Payne Park. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a sofa bed, and a dining area.

What's nearby

  • Ed Smith Stadium - 18 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • Marina Jack - 2 min drive - 1.3 miles
  • Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall - 2 min drive - 1.1 miles
  • Ringling College of Art and Design - 3 min drive - 1.5 miles
  • Lido Beach - 9 min drive - 4.6 miles

Getting around

  • Sarasota-Bradenton Intl. Airport (SRQ) - 8 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Raffurtys Bar & Grill - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪Bavaro's Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪La Primavera Supermarket - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Bob's Train - ‬13 min walk

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

The Ringling Retreat

A contemporary renovated oasis located minutes from the vibrant heart of downtown. Impeccably renovated, "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.
The Ringling Retreat is located in Park East, a vibrant neighborhood in Sarasota, Florida. Nestled in the heart of the city, 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
Food enthusiasts will delight in the neighborhood's culinary scene. 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. With its prime location and welcoming community, Park East is the perfect neighborhood to experience the best of Sarasota. Immerse yourself in nature, enjoy cultural delights, and embrace the laid-back Florida lifestyle.
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.

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 nostalgia of the golden era of the Big Top 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 privately enclosed patio 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. Whether you're a savvy traveler or a busy explorer, you'll appreciate the convenience of hopping on the main road and quickly reaching the exciting attractions, renowned restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.
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.
OSCILLATING FLOOR FANS:
We provide floor fans for cooling and soothing white noise to ensure a comfortable night's sleep.

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 olive 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 comfortably.
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. 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 know how cumbersome it is to travel with so many hygiene products. We're happy to lighten your load by offering you 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. You'll notice Eucalyptus releasing its healing fragrance as you shower.
COMPLIMENTARY LAUNDRY
You'll find private, complimentary use of a washer and dryer in a covered area outside to the left of the duplex through the gate. There are laundry baskets in each bedroom closet. Help yourself to the laundry detergent, stain remover, and softener sheets in in the outdoor laundry area. There's also a drying rack for your use.
EXTERIOR VIDEO AND AUDIO SECURITY
There is an active Ring Security camera on the doorbell that records audio and video. There is also an active camera that records audio and video on the top of the roof near the firepit seating area.

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

ALL ORGANIC CLEANING PRODUCTS:
We utilize 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 natural essential oils.
WE HAVE POPCORN
Experience our circus-inspired theme to the fullest with the addition of complimentary freshly popped popcorn!
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. As a local for several years, she's excited to share all her best tips with you!

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 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 ensure you continue enjoying your stay without interruptions.
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and 1.5 bathrooms, and there's space to spread out with 2 bedrooms and a dining area. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a sofa bed, and a coffee maker.

Property manager

Mary Meckley

Languages

English

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 1.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Porch/lanai

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Service animals only (pets not allowed)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In the city center
  • Near the bay

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 600 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • Service animals exempt from fees

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 25

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.

Property is also known as

546135

Frequently asked questions

What can I see within easy reach of this vacation home?

This vacation home is situated in Central Sarasota within a short 12-minute walk of Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe and also 14 minutes on foot from Payne Park. You'll also find Lido Beach and St. Armands Circle within a short drive.

Is there parking available at this vacation home?

No, there isn't parking at this vacation home.

Is this vacation home associated with a casino?

No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this vacation home?

No, there is no indoor pool at this vacation home.

Is The Ringling Retreat good for couples?

Couples staying at this vacation home will value amenities like a kitchen, kitchens in some accommodations, as well as a garden.

Are there hot tubs at The Ringling Retreat?

No, this vacation home doesn't have a spa tub.

Does this vacation home include breakfast service?

No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this vacation home allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at this vacation home though service animals are welcome.

Are there connecting rooms at this vacation home?

No, there aren't connecting rooms at this vacation home.

How close is the airport from this vacation home?

The closest major airport to this vacation home is Sarasota-Bradenton Intl. Airport (SRQ), which is 4.5 mi away (8 minutes by car). Another top airport is St. Petersburg, FL (SPG-Albert Whitted), which is around 29.8 mi away.

Can I book a room with a balcony at The Ringling Retreat?

Yes, every accommodation at The Ringling Retreat comes with a porch.

The Ringling Retreat Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 5 out of 6 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 6 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 6 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 6 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 6 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Chester

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The Ringling Retreat was a great stay. Mary thought of all the amenities to make our stay easy and enjoyable. We appreciated all of the decor and the framed instructions and pointers around the place to help you navigate. The place is not big, but is perfect for a couples get away. If you are an Orioles fan in for Spring Training (we were), the stadium is a casual walk or short drive from the place. The Retreat is clean, the bed is soft, and the sleep is quiet. We would highly recommend the Ringling Retreat and would definitely stay there again.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

natasha a.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great stay

This small home is very well designed and set up. Super clean and comfy. We really appreciated all the little details that helped make our 2 night stay very comfortable. We mostly walked to explore the city.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jenna N.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great spot clean great communication

Loved the retreat, close to beaches, convenient had everything for your trip, more of an adult friendly location it have young kids make sure you read description.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brad F.

Liked: Cleanliness

A

A accommodations. Very clean and cozy place. Property manager takes the extra steps to ensure a great stay.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

lisa L.

Liked: Cleanliness

The Ringling is wonderful!!!

This little gem has everything you could ever imagine and even more!!! Amazing hosts Mary and David were so accommodating and helpful!!! We will be back!!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

8/10 Good

Faith G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Devil is in the DETAILS

It's very obvious that host cares about going the extra mile, they provided plenty of extras which many hotels no longer do, and this property was overall well-provisioned. Being newly renovated gave everything a new and fresh appearance, but new construction also brings with it kinks that must be resolved. Shower temperature is not what it should be, it feels like the water temperature has been adjusted down. If luke-warm showers are your thing, you'll be okay. I suspect it may be an issue with hardware itself, as the range of cold-to-hot is noticeably quick and short. A/C thermostat was not working and A/C vents were all closed off...odd. Electrical breaker tripped and we were without electricity in the only bathroom and one bedroom. After we located the breaker box, it wouldn't open. I think it was sealed shut due to being recently painted. We tried phoning host to report, no answer. Last but certainly not least, the bedding was not clean in at least one bedroom. If I had to guess, changing sheets was overlooked, they smelled like somebody will bad foot odor had rolled in them. Despite nice aromatherapy, that is an untenable odor. After these exceptions are reconciled, this apartment will be very nice. Location is good, plenty of outdoor space which is furnished/comfortable, and practically everything you can possibly need in a home away from home.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023