I’ve always had a soft spot for the circus… the magic, the pageantry, the nostalgia of it all. When I heard Sarasota (the Circus Capital of the World) had a new boutique hotel inspired by its high-flying past, I damn near cartwheeled my way to check in.
Cirque St. Armands Beachside, the latest from Opal Collection, sits just off Lido Beach and is a quick stroll from St. Armands Circle (fun fact: this was developed by circus kingpin John Ringling himself). A perfect location and a whimsical theme is a recipe for perfection in my book, but before you start picturing red noses and cotton candy wallpaper, let me stop you right there. What I would have given to be part of the early ideation meetings…
Step right up and let’s get to it. Here’s a deep dive into Sarasota’s showstopping new hotel.
The Property
From the time I walked into the lobby, it was clear the property wasn’t going to be a kitschy clown-fest. The design leans glamorous and vintage, featuring velvet drapery, pinstriped columns, golden sconces, and ostrich-feather chandeliers that feel plucked out of the Roaring Twenties.
Circus nods are everywhere, but they’re subtle, stylish, and very Instagrammable: Animal print throw pillows, framed photos of performers training in yesteryear, and even newspaper clippings from the Baraboo News (a nod to the Ringling brothers’ hometown in Wisconsin).
The guestrooms are equally well done, yet subdued, featuring a palette of soft greys, whites, and sandy tones paired with bronze and gold accents. I stayed in a king room with beach views, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a sizable balcony overlooking the water. Plus, expect all the best amenities, including plush robes and tasty turndown treats, as well as luxurious soaps and hydration stations on each floor.
Food & Drink
The hotel’s signature restaurant, Ringside, was a standout: Floor-to-ceiling ocean views, trapeze murals, and velvet booths tucked behind curtains. But even with all that drama, the food was the real star. I’m still thinking about the char-grilled octopus and the honey-whipped feta, challenged for best bite by the gulf grouper.
Behind the bar (adorably called Midway), they’re shaking, muddling, foaming, even smoking cocktails like they’re putting on a show, all dressed up with garnishes housed in mini carousel-inspired jars. The menu includes fun martinis and variations on classics—like a strawberry Aperol Spritz and a spicy watermelon marg. Rumor has it there’s a great happy hour here for locals and guests alike!
Other tasty surprises may pop up throughout your visit. When I checked in, they handed me a sparkling welcome cocktail with a refreshing popsicle inside, then served frozen fruit by the pool, and offered flavored popcorn in the afternoons.
Amenities
The pool area is exactly what you’d want for a laid-back, circus-inspired Sarasota escape. You’re greeted by cheerful yellow striped umbrellas and matching loungers, adorable elephant pool floats, and a cocktail menu with outdoor service. Beach access is right across the street, so it’s easy to bounce between the two.
Ringmaster is the outdoor pool bar that was closed for weather during my visit, but I hear it’ll have boozy gelato, champagne popsicles, and frosé on the menu. Another excuse to return!
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