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  • Behind the Big Top: Private Tour of Ringlingville's Restoration
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Behind the Big Top: Private Tour of Ringlingville's Restoration

Sat Sep 12, 2026, Multiple times Circus World, 53913
Register

Behind the Big Top: Private Tour of Ringlingville's Restoration

Sat Sep 12, 2026, Multiple times Circus World, 53913
Register

Behind the Big Top: Private Tour of Ringlingville's Restoration

Sat Sep 12, 2026, Multiple times Circus World, 53913
Register

Join us for this special member-only tour at Circus World in Baraboo.

Step inside history — literally. Circus World is home to Ringlingville, the original Winter Headquarters of the Ringling Brothers Circus (1884–1918), and one of Wisconsin's most extraordinary landmarks. As a designated National Historic Landmark on the National Register of Historic Places, this site tells the story of the greatest show on earth and the brothers who built it.

Thanks to the Save America's Treasures Grant program and State of Wisconsin funding, WHS is bringing Ringlingville back to its 1915 glory. As our valued members, you'll get an exclusive peek behind the curtain.

Join us for a private, guided tour with the architects and state facility managers as we explore three projects in different stages of transformation:

  • The Ringling Brothers Office Building — freshly restored and ready to impress
  • Wild Animal House #2 — newly completed!
  • The Baggage Horse Barn — in the design phase, where history meets blueprints

You'll walk away with a front-row seat to the fascinating world of historic restoration. From how investigators uncover a building's original secrets, to the craft of replicating century-old wood windows, masonry, plaster, and even historic paint colors. We'll also dig into how preservationists balance authenticity with modern safety and accessibility needs.

This is a rare, members-only experience you won't want to miss!

Event Details

Cost: FREE

There is limited space at this event so we encourage you to register early! Members must provide their six-digit Member ID to register. Maximum of 2 tickets per member so that we are able to include as many members as possible. 

If you are not sure your membership is active, please contact us at info@madisonpreservation.org.

We have planned two tour times and each time will break up into three groups. We will divide the guests into the three groups and you'll have an assigned group once you arrive. 

The tour is approximately 1.5 hours. We will also be providing a list of suggested lunch places and a short driving tour of historic buildings in Baraboo. Additional event information will be sent in your event emails.