Circus History Trolley Tour by Discover Sarasota Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
90 minutes
Fitness Level
Minimal physical exertion required; suitable for most fitness levels
Overview
Step aboard a 90-minute trolley tour in Venice, FL, and uncover the hidden stories of the Ringling Bros. Circus. Discover Sarasota Tours guides you through landmarks and a unique museum stop that reveal the city’s circus past.
Circus Secrets of Venice
90 Minutes • Ages 10+
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Discover the captivating history of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus on a 90-minute trolley tour through Venice. Led by guide Bob Collins, explore significant landmarks and enjoy a 30-minute visit to the Historic Train Depot and Ringling Train Car Museum, enriched by knowledgeable docents.
About
Explore the Circus Secrets of Venice
Duration
90 Minutes
About
Led by guide, Bob Collins and focuses on the rich history of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus in Venice. On this 90-min trolley tour, you’ll explore the landmarks, stories, and key points of interest of Venice circus history. The tour includes a 30-min stop at the Historic Train Depot and Ringling Train Car Museum, where you’ll will depart the trolley and hear from docents about these two significant historical venues.
A donation will be made to the Venice Area Historical Society for their partnership in providing docents that teach guests about the train depot and circus train car.
Experience a full day of fun on our Venice City Sightseeing Tour at 10 AM & Circus Secrets of Venice tour at 1 PM!
Tours depart from the Venice Area Chamber of Commerce – 597 S Tamiami Trail, Venice, FL 34285.
ALL guests must be ages 10+.
Every guest must have a paid ticket in order to board.
Tour ticket includes FREE Parking!
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is free at the Venice Area Chamber of Commerce, but spaces can fill quickly—arrive at least 15 minutes early.
Dress for the Florida Sun
Trolley tours are mostly open-air; bring sun protection like hats and sunscreen to stay comfortable.
Bring a Camera
Keep your camera ready—historic trains and city landmarks offer unique photo opportunities during the stop.
Suitable for Ages 10+
To join the tour, guests must be 10 years old or older — plan accordingly for kids in your group.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great blue herons frequent the coastal waterways
- Ospreys nest near the Intracoastal Waterway
History
Venice was a winter home base for the Ringling Bros. Circus, where many performers and animals lived during the off-season, cementing a significant cultural link to the town’s identity.
Conservation
Local efforts maintain the Historic Train Depot and museum exhibits, supporting heritage tourism that fosters community investment in preserving Venice’s cultural landmarks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sun Hat
Protects your head and face from direct sunlight during open-air portions of the tour.
spring specific
Sunscreen
Necessary to prevent sunburn during the exposed trolley segments.
summer specific
Light Jacket
Useful for cool breezes on the trolley or during outdoor stops.
winter specific
Camera or Smartphone
Essential for capturing the historic trains, street scenes, and museum artifacts.