Downtown Baraboo is a classic Wisconsin small-town center built around a courthouse square, and it carries the imprint of the Ringling family. The most striking building is the Ringling Theatre, an ornate early twentieth-century theater built by Al. Ringling, which still hosts performances and screenings and is open for tours at times. Around the square, shops, cafes and galleries make an easy hour or two on foot. It is free to wander, and an ideal companion to Circus World and the Al. Ringling Mansion for a day built around Baraboo's story.
Baraboo's identity is circus. The Ringling brothers grew up here, launched their show here and wintered here, and the town's streets, markers and buildings still reflect that. The Ringling Theatre, opened in 1915, was built by Al. Ringling as a showplace for his hometown, with an interior decorated in the style of grand European opera houses. It remains one of the best preserved theaters of its era in the Midwest.Around the square, the downtown area offers shops, restaurants and cafes.
A walk begins at the courthouse and passes historic storefronts, murals and plaques that tell the story of the town. The mood is quiet and local, which makes a pleasant contrast to the Dells. Check the theater's calendar for shows, film screenings and tour times, since the schedule varies.Timing matters. Many shops close early or on Sundays, so plan a daytime visit if you want to browse. Evening is lovely when the theater has an event.
Parking is straightforward around the square. For dining, look for local pubs, bakeries and cafes that serve regional specialties such as cheese curds and brats.Link it with the rest of Baraboo. Circus World is a short drive from downtown, and the Al. Ringling Mansion offers its own tours, including haunted ones in season. Devil's Lake State Park and the International Crane Foundation are close enough to make a full day. The Baraboo tourism website offers itineraries and event calendars for planning.
A few final tips
Check whether the theater offers guided tours or open houses during your visit, and book tickets for shows ahead if one catches your eye. Pick up a downtown walking map from the visitor center or the tourism website. The surrounding area has bakeries and coffee shops that make a nice start to the day, and local galleries often feature regional artists. Parking is easiest near the square, and walking from there takes you past most points of interest in a few minutes.
What to expect
The experience
A courthouse-square downtown with shops, cafes and the ornate Ringling Theatre, plus plaques telling the Ringling story.
Best time
Daytime for shopping and walks; evenings when the theater has an event.
How long
One to two hours.
Tips
Check the theater calendar for tours and shows, and note that some shops close early or on Sundays.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants a small-town break and the Ringling story.
- Families
- Easy and free, with cafes and ice cream for treats.
- Couples
- A quiet, charming date stroll followed by a show if one is on.
- Pair with
- Circus World and the Al. Ringling Mansion.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
Who built the Ringling Theatre?+
Al. Ringling, the eldest of the Ringling brothers, built it in 1915.
Can I tour the theater?+
Tours are offered at times. Check the schedule.
Is downtown Baraboo walkable?+
Yes. The shops and theater surround the courthouse square.
How far is Baraboo from the Dells?+
About half an hour by car.
What else is nearby?+
Circus World, the Al. Ringling Mansion, Devil's Lake State Park and the International Crane Foundation.