About this city
Also known as: Circus City
Nestled along the quartzite ridges of the Baraboo Range, Baraboo is a historic city globally recognized as the 'Circus Capital of the World.' It served as the winter headquarters for the Ringling Bros. Circus in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, leaving behind a remarkable architectural and cultural legacy that defines the town's identity. Beyond its rich entertainment heritage, Baraboo acts as the primary gateway to Devil's Lake State Park, offering dramatic geographic landscapes, steep glaciated bluffs, and extensive outdoor recreation that draws travelers from across the Midwest.
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Economics & Local Vibe
Practical Tourism Metadata
Suggested stay: 2–3 days
Tour the historic winter quarters and watch live big-top performances at Circus World, hike the breathtaking balanced rock trails at Devil's Lake State Park, and view rare, elegant birds from around the globe at the International Crane Foundation.
