Experience Circus History

Explore Circus World

What began with less than an acre of land, six historic circus wagons plus a lot of grit, determination, and passion, has now become an internationally recognized and respected institution encompassing 64 acres, 30 permanent structures, seven winter quarters buildings along Water Street, plus the Ringling Bros. Circus Train shed complex, and over 260 spectacular wagons. Circus World truly is “Wisconsin’s National Treasure!”

Start your history road trip!

Pick up your 2024 Member PastPort and start collecting stamps when you visit Circus World! Redeem your stamps for discounts or even a free year of membership!
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Our Treasures

As other entertainment forms gained popularity, Circus World began documenting and collecting important treasures of the American Circus. From original Ringling Circus buildings to the smallest flea circus prop

Our Treasures will astonish!

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Wisconsin Historical Society members receive unlimited free admission to our 11 historic sites and museums, a complimentary annual subscription to the Wisconsin Magazine of History, merchandise discounts and more. Join at the Family level and above for added benefits and discounts at over 1,200 organizations nationwide! 


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Circus World

Circus World

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Circus World - Official

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21 hours ago
Circus World

The tremendously talented Eric Michael Gillett, with his soaring vocals, will be a night to remember at the Al. Al. Ringling Theatre - America’s Prettiest Playhouse. From Broadway stages to Las Vegas showrooms, from the big screen to tv screens, and as singing ringmaster of the Greatest Show on Earth for over a decade, Eric’s talents have truly entertained children of all ages. This is a show not to be missed!SHOW ANNOUNCEMENT:

Eric Michael Gillett - is a radiant star of Broadway Stages, Film and the Center Ring. His film and television appearances include The Producers, Maid in Manhattan, Good God, Out of Order, The Third Testament, The Judge, The Blacklist, multiple episodes of “Daredevil” and “Law & Order”. Broadway credits include the original casts of Sweet Smell of Success, The Frogs, and the revival of Kiss Me Kate. Other major NYC credits include principal soloist turns with the New York City Opera in Cinderella, Pirates of Penzance and Candide, as well as New York City Ballet’s Seven Deadly Sins. Eric is a MAC and Bistro Award winning vocalist with his legendary cabaret shows. The New York Times called Gillett’s shows “an intimate portrait of a man in the thrall of show business dreams, for whom popular standards are platforms for unguarded confessions”. Mr. Gillett was also the ringmaster for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus from 1987-1998, and in 2010, he conceived and directed New York city’s own Big Apple Circus production – Dance on.

Get your tickets now for this amazing evening of vocal performance on Friday August 2, 2024 at 7:00pm.

Purchase your tickets here: www.eventbrite.com/e/an-evening-with-eric-michael-gillett-tickets-891909975747

More details can be found at the Al. Ringling Theatre website: www.alringling.org/

Purchase your tickets in person at the box office open Tuesday to Friday weekly from 12:00pm to 4:00pm.
... See MoreSee Less

The tremendously talented Eric Michael Gillett, with his soaring vocals, will be a night to remember at the Al. Al. Ringling Theatre - America’s Prettiest Playhouse. From Broadway stages to Las Vegas showrooms, from the big screen to tv screens, and as singing ringmaster of the Greatest Show on Earth for over a decade, Eric’s talents have truly entertained children of all ages. This is a show not to be missed!
23 hours ago
Circus World

A Broadway Legend, Automan on retro TV, and Ringmaster of the 136th and 138th editions of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus. Be sure not to miss Chuck Wagner in a special Midwest appearance. ... See MoreSee Less

23 hours ago
Circus World

In honor of Hispanic Heritage month, come celebrate this international pop culture icon - Charo at the Al.Ringling Theatre. Ticket link in the post below.SHOW ANNOUNCEMENT!!

Charo is an American music and Pop Culture Icon who has entertained millions during her stellar career. Charo is instantly recognizable by her trademark expression, “Cuchi Cuchi”, which has endeared her to audiences around the world and made her name synonymous with music, fun and excitement. She is a virtuoso guitarist, singer, composer, actress and comedienne who has been voted “Best Flamenco Guitarist” twice by Guitar Magazine.

Don't miss your chance to see this iconic and internationally acclaimed talent perform live at the Al. Ringling Theatre in an entertaining, high-energy show! See Charo on Friday October 11, 2024 at 7:00pm!

Tickets are now available here: www.eventbrite.com/e/charo-tickets-891917187317

More details can be found at the AL. Ringling Theatre website: www.alringling.org/

Purchase your tickets in person at the box office open Tuesday to Friday weekly from 12:00pm to 4:00pm.
... See MoreSee Less

In honor of Hispanic Heritage month, come celebrate this international pop culture icon - Charo at the Al.Ringling Theatre. Ticket link in the post below.