AL. Ringling Brewing Co.
4.3(876)google
3.8(53)yelp
Folk CultureYouth-FriendlyIndoorLocal Life
Overview
Rooted in the legendary circus history of Baraboo, this historic brewery brings to life the original family beer recipe of the Al. Ringling circus empire. Housed in a charmingly restored building, the brewery features a lively taproom filled with historic circus memorabilia. Guests can sample finely crafted local ales and lagers while learning about the entertaining heritage of the world-famous showmen who shaped the region.
Practical Info
MonClosed
Tue11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wed11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thu11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Fri11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sat11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sun11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Suggested Duration1.5-2.5 hours
Best TimeYear-round visiting is fine, but Friday or Saturday evenings between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM are highly recommended. This peak dinner and social window offers a lively atmosphere, often complete with live acoustic music. It is the perfect time to sample their locally brewed craft beers, like the historic circus-themed lagers, while immersing yourself in Baraboo's rich circus heritage.
Getting ThereLocated in the heart of downtown Baraboo, walking or ridesharing is easiest if you are already in town. It is just a 3-minute walk (around 200 meters) east from Circus Square. If driving into town from external regions, take WI-113 into the city center and look for free street parking along Broadway or 4th Avenue, then walk to 623 4th Avenue.
Travel Tips
- The brewery is situated directly behind the historic AL. Ringling Mansion. Do not attempt to enter via the front mansion gates; the dedicated taproom entrance is located on 5th Ave. On-site parking is limited, but free street parking is widely available along Broadway Street and surrounding downtown Baraboo public lots within a 2-minute walk.
- Dining or drinking at the brewery does not grant access to the interior of the attached AL. Ringling Mansion. The mansion operates independently as a historical museum/B&B with separate daytime hours and paid admission. To combine both, book a mansion tour around 3 PM, then seamlessly transition to the brewery right after for an early dinner.
- The must-order flagship draft is 'The Ringling Family Original,' brewed from a lost recipe discovered beneath the mansion's floorboards. The brewery frequently runs 'Latin Night' and live music events featuring distinct discounts on Micheladas and selective craft drafts. Always ask your server for the rotating 'Kitchen Specials' menu upon seating.
Reviews
Positive
- The historic atmosphere and circus-themed vintage decor are fantastic, allowing you to enjoy great craft beers alongside circus artifacts.
- Blessed to hear the giant circus organ (calliope) fire up and play; it is loud and exhilarating, instantly transporting you back a century.
- The staff and bartenders are incredibly warm, professional, and knowledgeable about the building's history. Great beer selection and pretzels.
- Reasonable opening hours and an open, spacious facility. Though the menu is small, the burgers and appetizers are hearty and priced fairly.
Heads up
- When the historic organ plays, it is extremely loud and echoes through the open facility, making quiet conversation impossible.
- The food selections are quite limited, mostly restricted to basic pub grub, which might disappoint those looking for a diverse dinner menu.
- During the peak summer tourist season, the crowds get intense, causing the staff to be stretched thin and wait times to increase significantly.
- Some visitors confuse the brewery with the mansion tour next door, where the separate historical tour fee is considered expensive for what you see.