Explore Circus World
What began with less than an acre of land, six historic circus wagons plus a lot of grit, determination, and passion, has now become an internationally recognized and respected institution encompassing 64 acres, 30 permanent structures, seven winter quarters buildings along Water Street, plus the Ringling Bros. Circus Train shed complex, and over 260 spectacular wagons. Circus World truly is “Wisconsin’s National Treasure!”
Schedule
OPEN DAILY
May 17 – Sep 1, 2024 | 9AM – 4PM
| 9 AM | Grounds Open |
| 9:30 AM | Kids World Circus Hippodrome |
| 10 AM | Guided Circus Wagon Tour Deppe Wagon Pavillion |
| 11 AM | Blast Off! Big Top Circus Big Top Tent |
| 1 PM | Milky Way Music Review Hippodrome |
| 1:45 PM | Zenith Human Cannonball The Green |
| 2:30 PM | Blast Off! Big Top Circus Big Top Tent |
| 4 PM | Grounds & Exhibits Close |
Start your history road trip!
Pick up your 2024 Member PastPort and start collecting stamps when you visit Circus World! Redeem your stamps for discounts or even a free year of membership!
Not a member? Join today to get in on the fun.
Our Treasures
As other entertainment forms gained popularity, Circus World began documenting and collecting important treasures of the American Circus. From original Ringling Circus buildings to the smallest flea circus prop
Our Treasures will astonish!
Get the Best Deal in History
Wisconsin Historical Society members receive unlimited free admission to our 11 historic sites and museums, a complimentary annual subscription to the Wisconsin Magazine of History, merchandise discounts and more. Join at the Family level and above for added benefits and discounts at over 1,200 organizations nationwide!
Tune in tomorrow at 9:00am as Circus Week Live radio show launches on 99.7 MAX FM. Listen all week as circus performers past and present share their stories, the timeless traditions, and heritage of the circus. We will also be sharing the live feed right here on our facebook page. Tune in, lots in store as Baraboo celebrates its stupendous circus heritage! ... See MoreSee Less
Comment on Facebook
Can’t wait…looking forward to all week and then CFA on Thursday
Will check it out.
2009-2018
Milwaukee’s final Great Circus Parade took place in 2009, marking the end of an era for circus fans throughout the country. Circus World’s United States bandwagon received national exposure with appearances at numerous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parades between 2011 and 2014, and a new local tradition began in 2013 with the first Baraboo Big Top Parade. Scott O’Donnell returned to Baraboo that fall, this time to fill the position of Circus World’s Executive Director. The following year marked the return of the big top tent to Circus World after an eight-year absence, and 2016 brought tigers back to the site for the first time in over a decade. Circus World continued to evolve in 2018 when operational control of the site transferred from the Circus World Museum Foundation to the Wisconsin Historical Society. ... See MoreSee Less
Comment on Facebook
Great walk through history!! Love you guys!
It was always amazing to see our animal friends perform in the Center Ring!
Thank you for saving it! I thought when the museum shut down that was the end of it. I will be going there!
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No matter the weather, no matter your age, make your plans to visit Circus World to step up to and into the world of the circus. So many live shows, opportunities to learn more about the heritage and history of the circus. Did you know over 100 circuses have called the Badger State home? Run away with the circus for a day! We are open daily from 9:00am to 4:00pm. (photo by Kayce Dervetski). ... See MoreSee Less
Comment on Facebook
When the weather is sprinkling, it is better to see all the exhibits!