Baraboo, Wisconsin is the historic home of the Ringling Brothers. Today, it is home to Circus World, a museum and amusement park that pays homage to the legendary brothers, their traveling attraction, and an industry that has delighted the world.
We visited with the intention of spending a few hours wandering through the museum. Instead, we spent the day diving into the history of the entertaining brothers, marveling at exquisitely carved train cars, and laughing at clowns.
Tiger Adventures
Along with displays on the history of the Ringling Brothers and other performers, Circus World hosts Tiger Adventures, a presentation on tigers and training techniques. While tigers and other large predators have long been featured in circus acts, this presentation and performance is both fascinating and educational.
Big Top Circus
A trip to Circus World would be incomplete without a classic show under the Big Top. The Big Top Circus is a group of performers in residence at Circus World. Three times a day they perform feats of daring, precision, and skill. There are animal trainers, juggling unicyclists, trapeze artists, and, of course, clowns.
When we visited, the circus was featuring acts themed around the 50s but who knows what to expect when you visit!