Baraboo is the quieter, older sister of Wisconsin Dells, and it is the best day trip from the resort strip. It sits half an hour south, in the Baraboo Range, and it combines circus history, small-town streets and some of the best hiking in Wisconsin. If the Dells is the loud party, Baraboo is the long conversation afterward.
The Ringling story
The Ringling brothers began their circus in Baraboo in the 1880s, and the town was their winter base for decades. Circus World, built on the site of the winter quarters, holds historic buildings, circus wagons and in-season performances. The Al. Ringling Mansion, built by the eldest brother in 1905, offers tours and, in season, haunted tours. The Ringling Theatre downtown is an ornate 1915 theater that still hosts shows.
Downtown Baraboo
The courthouse square is a pleasant place to wander, with shops, cafes and galleries. A walk takes about an hour, and the theater is the highlight. Check opening hours, because small-town shops may close early or on Sundays.
Devil's Lake State Park
The park, south of Baraboo, is the standout outdoor attraction. Quartzite bluffs about 500 feet high ring a glacier-dammed lake, and trails climb to overlooks and pass natural features such as Balanced Rock. Swimming, paddling and picnicking are popular. Arrive early on summer weekends, wear sturdy shoes and carry water.
International Crane Foundation
Near Baraboo, the foundation is widely described as the only place to see all fifteen crane species. The outdoor paths are good for families and birders. Check seasonal hours, and bring binoculars if you have them.
Sample itineraries
A history day: Circus World in the morning, lunch downtown, the Ringling Theatre and a mansion tour in the afternoon. An outdoors day: an early hike at Devil's Lake, a picnic on the beach and a stop at the Crane Foundation. A mixed day: Circus World, lunch, then Devil's Lake for a swim and sunset views.
A haunted evening
In season, Haunted Bara-BOO tours start at the Al. Ringling Mansion and mix circus-family history with ghost stories. Book ahead near Halloween and dress for outdoor walking.
Getting there
Baraboo is about half an hour from the Dells by car. Parking is straightforward in the town and at the park, though Devil's Lake lots fill early on summer weekends. A state park vehicle admission applies.
Where to eat
Look for local pubs, bakeries and cafes around the square, and bring a picnic for the park. The area has supper clubs where cheese curds and old-fashioned cocktails are the order of the day.
Seasons
Summer has the fullest circus programming and the best swimming. Autumn is excellent for hiking and color. Winter is quiet but offers snowshoeing and a cozy theater. Check seasonal hours for each venue.
Planning around closures
Baraboo is a small town, and some venues have seasonal or weekday schedules. Circus World has its fullest programming in summer, and the Ringling Theatre's tours depend on the calendar. Check each place before you drive, and build in a flexible hour so you can swap activities if something is closed. State park conditions can also change, so check for trail closures.
With children
Baraboo suits families because the activities are varied and not too long. Circus World's live acts and wagons delight young children, the Crane Foundation is a gentle walk with animals to spot, and the beaches at Devil's Lake give a place to cool off. Save steep bluff hikes for older children and keep an eye on safe footing on loose rock.
Photography tips
Early morning at Devil's Lake gives soft light and still water. The Ringling Theatre's interior and the colorful circus wagons are favorite subjects. Autumn color on the bluffs makes a spectacular backdrop, and the cranes are best photographed with a zoom lens. Always follow posted rules about flash and distance from wildlife.
Making it a weekend
If you want more time, stay overnight in Baraboo or a nearby town and add the Wollersheim Winery in Prairie du Sac or a paddle at Mirror Lake State Park. A second day lets you hike without rushing, see a show at the Ringling Theatre and take a haunted evening tour. Many visitors return to Baraboo after the Dells because it feels more relaxed and local.