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A Magnificent Marvelous Trip to the Circus Awaits

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Where The Wonder Never Ends and The Adventure is Just Beginning! 

Experience the amazing at Circus World! An incredible 64 acres showcasing the incredible history of the American Circus is yours to explore. From the world’s largest collection of restored historic circus wagons to seven National Historic Landmark structures that more than a century ago were the wintertime home to the Ringling Bros. Circus and are now filled with thousands of circus treasures, you’ll delight in this extraordinary, one-of-a-kind wonder.

A really fascinating place! One of the only places in the world where you can see the facilities where the animals were kept. The range of circus organs and wagons is so big, and the posters are comprehensive and riveting.

Katherine L.


Year Round Fun

American Circus Treasures

Nowhere else in the world will you find such an amazing collection of American circus history. Embark upon an extraordinary journey as you explore the former winter headquarters for the Ringling Bros. Circus, imagining the extraordinary sights, sounds and spectacles from more than a century ago when elephants strolled the streets of small-town Baraboo. You’ll be amazed, astonished and inspired by the whispers of big tops long ago and the treasures that have captivated generations of audiences.

An up close image of a yellow and red circus wagon wheel.

Step Right Up! Limited Time Engagement!

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see four extraordinary historic circus wagons, including the legendary Ringling Bros. Bell Wagon – believed to be the last remaining circus bell wagon in existence. Visit us at the home of the world’s largest collection of circus wagons.

Circus World Highlights

Historic Ringlingville 

See 7 National Historic Landmark Structures, part of the former winter quarters.

Deppe Wagon Pavilion

Explore an unparalleled collection of authentic wood-carved wagons in this unique trip through circus wagon history!

Miniature Circus 

Marvel at the details of this diminutive circus – a tiny world of whimsy and wonder where the imagination knows no bounds!

C.P. Fox Wagon Restoration Center

Learn about the restoration process and the artisans who return these historic circus treasures to their former glory.

Lighter and darker stripes of red with lighter and darker stars scattered.

Big Top Performance

Holidays! 2025 Big Top Show

May 16 – August 31, 2025
[Closed Tuesdays]

Enjoy family-friendly entertainment under the BIG TOP circus tent! Enter a world of wonder where the impossible comes to life before your eyes! Holidays! is a breathtaking fusion of stunning artistry, heart-pounding acrobatics and jaw dropping feats of skill.

From charming Cupid to star-spangled revelry, this extravagant, holiday-themed big top romp is perfect for audiences of all ages. And don’t miss the incredible Festival of Flight outdoor trapeze show on The Green, set against the backdrop of the beautiful Baraboo River. 

Make it a Day of Value-Packed, Family Fun – Just Minutes from Wisconsin Dells!

Enjoy FREE on-site parking just steps away from the circus fun.  

Tickets are good from open to close – leave and return throughout the day at no extra cost.
And Big Top performances are included with admission.  

Map of Circus World


EDUCATION

Field Trips

The best day of your school year awaits! Don’t just read about history, experience it firsthand. Field Trips at Circus World Museum, and all of the Wisconsin Historical Society’s historic sites and museums, allow students to step into the worlds they’re studying through fun adventures and engaging experiences around the state for grades k-12.  

Wisconsin Historical Society Sites

Circus World is one of 12 historic sites and museums owned and operated by the Wisconsin Historical Society. Explore all of these sites below.