Circus World — Attraction in Baraboo

Absolutely Amazing! The history of this location and the items in the collection is incredible. The enthusiasm and knowledge of the staff as well as the historic society's passion to maintain authenticity is heartwarming and makes the experience even better. I cannot say enough good things about our visit to Circus World. At the risk of overpopulating this hidden gem, I highly recommend going to Circus World. Here are some more detailed thoughts on specific attractions: The Circus Under The Big Top was a jaw-dropping show. The value of the show far exceeded the price of admission. The variety of acts allowed something for everyone and entertainment for all ages. The three member family that juggled and did aerial acts was my absolute favorite. The costumes, animals, theme, and performance from each act was top notch and high quality. The ending horse act was a little awkward, but it was the Circus; I don't hold the entire experience against it. Circus Snacks! I adore the fact that you could enhance your Circus experience with traditional circus snacks: popcorn, peanuts, cotton candy, and more. It was such a great touch. Gorgeous scenery and landscape surrounds the grounds. The land is well cared for and maintained which adds to the richness of the experience. The river was clean and beautiful to look at from one of many relaxing benches throughout the site. The historic buildings are preserved and maintained very well. It was very exciting to walk through history and see what it would have been like in the late 1800s/early 1900s when the Ringling Brothers circus was operating out of those exact buildings. The diverse and authentic artifacts coupled with ample signage and historical information made for an enjoyable and educational experience for all ages. I am so glad that these buildings still exist and are being preserved. The Hall of Wagons took my breath away. It was so fun to learn from the guided tour (included with admission) about the variety of wagons and carts that were out for display. The tour gentleman was very kind and knowledgeable. Learning about the difference between Circus, Carnival, and Wild West shows was fascinating and an unexpected historical topic. To be so close to these pieces of history gives new appreciation and meaning to "the circus is in town." The fact that some of the carts were local while others were from across the world added a lot of value to the experience. Railroad Cars: The two silver coaches that are on display are so magical. To see these vehicles that brought joy, respite, and laughter to so many across the US is an opportunity that cannot be missed. It is a great photo opportunity too! Nostalgic sounds can be heard throughout the site. For those with auditory sensitivities, I recommend caution and some noise cancelling ear protection. Some of the musical pieces can be very loud and stimulating. I enjoyed the opportunities to hear some of the tunes and also to retreat to quieter locations on...

Overall, the circus is an attraction that everyone should check out when visiting this part of Wisconsin! The kids loved the show, getting their face painted, riding the ponies and elephants! There's a lot of history and exhibits that adults will enjoy too. My only negative during this outing were the two ladies in the gift shop: one was heavyset with long blonde hair and the other was a petite, short, gray-hair lady. Two of my children went into the shop to look around. They spotted these small, stone animals and picked them up to get a closer look and called out to me to come take a look. The gray-hair lady snaps and quickly tells them to put them down and that they are done. I come over and ask my daughter what she wanted me to look at. She points at the animals. I ask the lady why can't my kids touch them. She tells me that they are fragile and she didn't want them to play with it. I tell her my kids are very respectful of stuff that isn't theirs and that all they did was pick them up to look at. She goes onto to repeat herself that kids tend to break stuff. Now enters the blonde-hair lady: she says that they can not touch it but to only look at. I said if I'm interested in purchasing it I'm going to touch it. She continues with the sentiment that you can't touch the products and the only time you can touch them is when you carry it to the counter to buy. So again, I'm a little flabbergasted at this point, I ask that customers can't pick up a product unless they buy it? But what if we want a closer look or do what any normal person does and browse? She says that you touch it when you carry it to the counter. At this point our tickets are bought and we are getting ready to leave the store and she snarkily says to her coworker "see, they didn't even carry it to the counter." My husband responds after her comment that we won't be purchasing anything now. I tell them that they are rude and their customer service skills are lacking and it's ridiculous to expect people to not pick up products in the store to inspect them before purchasing. And the best part is, that's not even store policy of only touching when purchasing!! The blonde lady was arrogant and thought she was making some valid point. At least the other lady came off a little more contrite and tried, but failed, to apologize. I would love for the owner or manager to reach out to me about...

"Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls…"

When it was announced that The Greatest Show on Earth” would no longer be, my heart crumbled at the thought that a childhood tradition would soon come to an end. How sad for future generations. A three-hour visit to the Circus World Museum triggered some fond memories. As you approach the front doors, calliope music welcomes you into the world of lions, tigers and elephants. In the exhibit hall and visitor center are bigger than life posters and lithographs that wooed children and adults alike into the magical world of the big top. In the collection are views of people who were part of the sideshow acts. Discover how these outcasts of society found employment, worth and love through the circus. Learn of the five Ringling Brothers who started a circus in Baraboo, WI, May 19, 1884 with a small tent, three horses, a hyena and a troupe of 21 people. You’ll gain insight into the life of each brother, their life’s apart and as a unit to make their circus the best the world would know. At the W.W. Deppe Circus Wagon Pavilion, you will see an impressive array of beautiful circus wagons. In the C.P. Fox Wagon Restoration Center, you’ll view the Star Tableau wagon from Sir Robert Fossett, considered England’s oldest circus in the world. Other barns on the property showcase the stories and costumes of the ringmaster, clowns and costumes of different acts of the day. Admission during the spring and fall is under 10.00. Summer rates are under 20.00. A must see is the to scale circus big top display with movement of circus acts. Overall: This was a great day trip that was worth the...