Explore Baraboo

The charming small town of Baraboo, Wisconsin, is known for its colorful circus history, its proximity to Devil’s Lake State Park, and its historic downtown square.

​​Just a mile from scenic Devil’s Lake, Baraboo is tucked into the middle of the Baraboo River Valley. Proud to call Circus World and the International Crane Foundation its own, the Baraboo Hills are alive with vibrant communities and popular destinations that offer premier adventures and experiences. 

With an array of shopping, gastronomic delights, and fun things to do, you will never get bored in Baraboo.

Downtown Baraboo Fair on the Square mother daughter

Not to Be Missed …

Downtown Baraboo is a hub of community fairs and festivals.

Ringed by locally owned specialty shops, the historic business district bursts with the sound of live music and the smells of carnival food on weekends.

From craft fairs to a farmers’ market to a circus parade to Night Markets, Downtown Baraboo bustles with energy.

Outside the downtown district, the Sauk County Fair draws crowds each July, and the Badger Steam & Gas Show re-creates the days of yore west of town every August.

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Did You Know …

Baraboo’s roots lie in the Baraboo Commercial Association, which was formed on September 15, 1913, and advocated for “a Hustling, Rustling, Bustling Baraboo.” Baraboo also has an enduring circus heritage — the Ringling brothers called Baraboo home and kept their winter retreat there until 1918 — and five other circuses also got their start here: Gollmar Brothers (1891 to 1916), John Robinson (1898), Forepaugh Sells Brothers (1910-1911), Fun on the Farm (1924), and Wilbur W. Deppe’s Classic Country Circus (1961-1966).

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Why You Should Visit …

Have we mentioned the circus culture yet? Baraboo is home to the Circus World Museum, the former headquarters and winter home of the Ringling brothers big-top production. The Al. Ringling Theatre is an active landmark in the city. And Baraboo is near the can’t-miss Devil’s Lake State Park and Aldo Leopold’s Shack and Farm. The landscape surrounding the historic farm inspired renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold’s best-known work, A Sand County Almanac.

Discover More About Baraboo

Head over to the chamber’s designated website to learn more about Baraboo’s culture and heritage, places to eat and drink, and spots to play and stay.

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