Circus World | A Wisconsin Historic Site in Baraboo, WI

kid friendly attractions green county

★★★★☆ 4.1 (Reviews)

attach_moneyattach_money

View Details

Step into Wisconsin’s circus heritage! Enjoy dazzling exhibits, live shows, and family fun at Baraboo’s top-rated historic attraction.
Local area information

If you’re even a little curious about circus history, Circus World in Baraboo is honestly a fun way to spend an afternoon. It’s not some glitzy Vegas circus—think more old-school showmanship, historic wagons, and a lot of Wisconsin charm. You’ll see families, history buffs, and folks just looking to try something different, all wandering around.

To set expectations, this place leans into nostalgia and the real history of the circus in America, so if you’re after wild modern acrobatics, you might be underwhelmed. One practical thing: their Facebook page is actually pretty active with updates on events and weather closures, so it’s worth a peek before you go.

Location & Contact

Address: 550 Water St, Baraboo, WI 53913, USA

Phone: (608) 356-8341

Website: Official site

Parking: Free lot on site, but it can fill up on weekends or during special events. There’s also street parking nearby if the main lot is full, but expect a short walk.

Accessibility: Most of the main areas are wheelchair accessible, but some of the historic spaces have uneven ground. If you have specific needs, calling ahead is a good idea—they’re friendly about questions.

Useful Resources

📱 Social Media

Facebook

What's the Deal

Best for

Families, history lovers, and anyone who’s curious about old-school circus culture

Time needed

2–3 hours (longer if you catch all the shows and walk every exhibit)

Budget range

$20–$25/adult, kids a bit less; food and souvenirs extra

Worth knowing

Live performances run mostly in summer—check their Facebook for daily schedules and weather updates

The Real Experience

Walking in, you’ll see a mix of restored circus wagons, big tents, and old brick buildings that honestly smell just a little bit like popcorn and sawdust (in a good way). If you’re there in summer, you’ll catch live circus acts—think juggling, trapeze, and clown sketches, all with a classic vibe. The museum side has some surprisingly detailed exhibits about the Ringling family (they started here), and you can get up close to costumes, posters, and props that look straight out of another era.

It’s busiest on weekends and during special events—if you want a quieter visit, try a weekday or earlier in the day. The staff is usually happy to answer questions, and they keep things pretty friendly and low-key. If you’re hoping to see every show, check the schedule online or on their Facebook before you go, since Wisconsin weather can mess with outdoor performances.

Bottom Line

Worth visiting? If you’re even a little bit into history or quirky Americana, Circus World is a solid stop. It’s not high-tech, but it’s genuinely unique, especially if you catch a live show. Just know it’s more charming than flashy—and that’s kind of the point.