The Ritz Sarasota

A Historical Perspective

A project nearly seventy-five years in the making, the Ritz Carlton, Sarasota represents John Ringling's dream of a prestigious luxury hotel. Today, The Ritz-Carlton stands on the same parcel of property that John and Mable Ringling acquired around 1931 and its presence holds a distinctive place in the rich history of both Sarasota and the Ringling heritage.

When John and Mable Ringling first discovered the town of Sarasota, it took no time at all to recognize its potential. The then quaint fishing village of Sarasota offered the perfect setting for Ringling's vision and as early as 1917, Ringling envisioned a community where his world travels, business insight, art and culture could thrive and he began buying tracts of land. With her lush landscaping, crystal sand beaches, and dramatic waterfront panoramas, Sarasota offered all that was needed to create a distinctive upscale & exclusive paradise for wealthy winter visitors.

With acquired rights to use the prestigious Ritz Carlton name and the undying enthusiasm typical of John Ringling, hotel construction began in mid March of 1926. Even before it officially open for business, this unbeatable location drew in savvy socialites and played host to numerous social affairs and tee-times.

Just as quickly as the hotel hype had begun, the Florida Land Bust commenced in late 1926, and construction was halted only to come to a permanent end following the financial devastation of the great depression. What had begun with great anticipation and zest had finished with a 250-room skeleton that remained in its ghostlike state until new development began in the 1960's.