Tampa, Florida-(7) Ringling Museum -(iii) Ca' d'Zan

Overlooking the ocean on the waterfront sits the house that was once home to the circus king and his wife. Inspired by the Venetian Gothic style of palazzos along the Venice canals, Ca'd'Zan, meaning "House of John," was built to capture the essence of this style.

Tampa, Florida-(6) Ringling Museum -(ii) The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is an impressive structure designed in a stunning pink Renaissance style, featuring 31 galleries filled with captivating works of art. In addition to the art and circus museums, the museum's outside gardens and courtyard provide an equally delightful setting to explore. As an added bonus, admission is free on Mondays, making it an accessible destination for all. Here are a few photos we took during our visit, both inside the galleries and outside in the beautiful courtyard.

Tampa, Florida-(5) Ringling Museum -(i) Landscapes and gardens

Standing on 66 acres of lush land in Sarasota, Florida, the Ringling Museum was established by the famed circus magnate John Ringling. The museum is home to a stunning array of attractions, including the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Circus Museum, and meticulously crafted gardens. Here are a few photos showcasing the beautiful landscapes and gardens that we explored during our visit.

Tampa, Florida-(4) Manatee Viewing Center -Tampa Electric

Located in Apollo Beach, Tampa, Florida, this power plant offers a unique opportunity to observe manatees in their natural habitat. The plant uses water from Tampa Bay for cooling, which is then returned to the bay in a clean and warm state. During the winter months, manatees seek out the warmth of this refuge, creating a gathering spot that can be viewed from the plant's designated viewing center. While my visit did not yield many sightings, the power plant itself is an impressive sight and well worth photographing. Enjoy!

Tampa, Florida- (3) Apollo Beach Natural Preserve

This serene spot features white sand trails and a picturesque white sand beach (though swimming is not permitted). It's a perfect destination for exercise enthusiasts seeking a tranquil walking trail or those who want to unwind by soaking up the sun on the beach. The water is a crystal clear blue and the sky matches in its own blue hue. The temperature is consistently comfortable, providing a peaceful setting to appreciate the natural surroundings. As you gaze out over the water, you can catch a glimpse of the power plant located across the way.

Tampa, Florida-(2) St. Pete Pier

St. Petersburg, also known as Sunshine City, is renowned for its pleasant climate, making it a top destination for boating and fishing enthusiasts. During our visit, we enjoyed a leisurely stroll around the pier, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling street performers. The waterfront restaurants offered a delightful lunch experience, complemented by stunning views. Here are a few photos that we took at the pier.

One of the highlights of our walk was experiencing "Bending Arc," the billowing net sculptures created by Janet Echelman. It was fascinating to note that this artwork is similar to the one we saw at Renwick Gallery in Washington, DC, which I wrote about in my post "Renwick Gallery-Washington, DC" on January 25, 2023.