Circus in Venice

For 32 years the Ringling Bros, the famous late 19th and early 20th century circus troupe, would winter at this place in sunny Venice, Florida.

Built in 1960, this location was chosen because of its proximity to the rail line. The circus performers — including the elephants — would travel by train to Florida for the winter months. In 1992 the arena was razed, but the trapeze remains, and trapeze star Tito Gaona teaches class twice a week there. A sign along the Tamiami Trail marks the spot where the arena once stood.