Circus World (theme park)

Circus World was a theme park located in Baraboo, Wisconsin, USA, operating from 1959 to 1984, and again briefly in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It was built on the original winter quarters of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, aiming to recreate the atmosphere of the circus's heyday.

The park featured a wide range of attractions and exhibits related to circus history and performance. Visitors could tour the original circus buildings, including animal barns and storage areas for wagons and equipment. Live circus performances, featuring animals, acrobats, and clowns, were a regular highlight. Other attractions included museums displaying circus memorabilia such as costumes, posters, and artifacts.

Circus World's significance stems from its preservation of a significant piece of circus history. It housed a vast collection of circus wagons, many of which were elaborately decorated and historically significant. The park served as an educational resource, showcasing the history and artistry of the American circus tradition.

Despite its historical importance, Circus World faced financial difficulties throughout its existence. Ownership changed hands several times, and the park eventually closed. However, the site was acquired by the Wisconsin Historical Society, which continues to operate it as a museum and historical site, preserving the legacy of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus and the broader history of the circus in America. The current iteration focuses more on the historical aspects and preservation, rather than operating as a traditional theme park.