The site served as the Ringling Bros. Circus winter quarters from 1884 to 1918.
It holds the largest collection of authentic, restored circus parade wagons in the world.
The Irvin Feld Exhibit Hall features the world's most extensive collection of circus posters.
Several buildings on the property are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The site produces live big-top performances that utilize traditional circus arts rather than animal-based spectacles.
Many of the parade wagons were meticulously restored on-site using historic techniques.
The museum includes a blacksmith shop that was used for maintaining the circus fleet during the early 20th century.
Baraboo, Wisconsin is considered the birthplace of the Ringling Bros. Circus empire.
Circus World is located at the original winter quarters of the Ringling Bros. Circus in Baraboo, Wisconsin. The 64-acre site functions as a living history museum dedicated to the preservation of circus history, featuring an extensive collection of vintage parade wagons and circus artifacts. Visitors can explore multiple historic structures, including the original Ringling barns and the Irvin Feld Exhibit Hall. Live circus performances are held daily during the peak summer season, showcasing traditional acts. The site is managed by the Wisconsin Historical Society. It houses one of the world's largest collections of circus memorabilia, including posters, costumes, and rare equipment.
In front of the brightly painted, restored historic parade wagons displayed in the main barns.
Check the performance schedule upon arrival to ensure you do not miss the daily big-top show.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the site covers 64 acres with significant outdoor walking between exhibit buildings.
Visit the archives building if you have a specific interest in circus research, though it may require advance coordination.
Do not rush through the site; the sheer volume of artifacts and the show schedule require a full morning or afternoon.
The site operates seasonally; it is typically open from mid-spring through early autumn and closed during the winter months.
Respect the historic artifacts and vintage wagons by maintaining a distance from displayed equipment.
