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!”
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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Follow along on the Al. Ringling Theatre pages as we start to announce some shows and movies. We look forward to seeing you all at America's Prettiest Playhouse!Watch this space as we announce our first slate of 2024 shows and movies for America's Prettiest Playhouse, starting tomorrow at 12:00pm.
We look forward to welcoming some tremendous international talent onto the stage, along with the amazing talent of our local community! More to come, we are just getting started. ... See MoreSee Less
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1969-1978
Circus World continued to grow by leaps and bounds during its second decade, and this was evident all over the site. The museum built a massive Circus Parade Pavilion to store and display the wagon collection. The library and archives moved to a new location on Lynn Street and staff began creating mobile displays to share circus history with audiences throughout the country. Visitors could now see performances under a canvas big top along with street parades and many different types of demonstrations during the daily experience. Circus World began a new chapter in late 1972 when Chappie Fox left the museum and William Schultz began his tenure as the new director. ... See MoreSee Less
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Fun times, I was in a movie made at circus world long ago…I believe it’s at the circus library at the circus on top of the hill. Nice if it ever was shown at the circus again.
Wow, so many happy memories! These from when I was a kid. Thanks for sharing!
Wonderful years to enjoy CWM!
Besides John I remember those English wagons in the crates. We could only get a little peek at them.
Love these beautiful histories!
Love the history!!!!❤️🎪
Greg Pittman
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