Baraboo Travel Guide

Trek Zone

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Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Wisconsin region, Baraboo is a captivating city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and rich history. Known for its stunning landscapes and friendly atmosphere, Baraboo is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and history buffs alike.

One of the main highlights of Baraboo is its close proximity to the awe-inspiring Devil's Lake State Park. Offering breathtaking views of the glacially formed lake, towering cliffs, and lush forests, this park is a paradise for hikers, rock climbers, and water sports enthusiasts. Whether you choose to embark on a challenging hike, try your hand at kayaking, or simply relax on the sandy beaches, Devil's Lake State Park will leave you spellbound with its natural beauty.

For those interested in history and culture, Baraboo is home to the renowned Circus World Museum. Step back in time and explore the fascinating world of the circus through captivating exhibits, live performances, and interactive displays. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus, and witness firsthand the grandeur and excitement that once filled the Big Top.

In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Baraboo boasts a vibrant downtown area that is brimming with charming shops, art galleries, and local eateries. Take a leisurely stroll along the streets, browse through unique boutiques, and discover one-of-a-kind treasures crafted by local artisans. Indulge in delectable regional cuisine at one of the many charming restaurants, where farm-to-table freshness is celebrated.

Nature lovers will also appreciate the nearby International Crane Foundation, where they can witness the majesty of these graceful birds and learn about their conservation efforts. With over 15 species of cranes from around the world, this sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and support the preservation of these endangered creatures.

Alternative names: Population: 12.2 thous.Area: 7.49 mi²Elevation: 886 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 43°28'16"N, 89°44'36"W

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WisconsinUnited States

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Baraboo Top Attractions

Baraboo Attractions - What to See and Explore

Baraboo offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Circus World Museum, International Crane Foundation, Pewit's Nest Gorge, Al. Ringling Theatre. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Specialty museum • Museum • Performing arts
Circus World Museum
The Circus World Museum is a museum complex in Baraboo, Wisconsin, devoted to circus-related history. The museum features circus artifacts and exhibits and hosts daily live circus performances throughout the summer.
Center with all 15 species of cranes
International Crane Foundation
The International Crane Foundation is a non-profit conservation organization that works to conserve cranes and the ecosystems, watersheds, and flyways on which they depend.
Park
Pewit's Nest Gorge
Pewit's Nest State Natural Area is a nature reserve of Wisconsin, USA, that includes a deep gorge formed during the retreat of the last glacier. Pewit's Nest is outside Baraboo in Sauk County. At one time a waterwheel and mill were located on the site and an individual lived in the solid sandstone.

Concerts and shows • Historical and heritage tours • Tours
Al. Ringling Theatre
The Al. Ringling Theatre in Baraboo, Wisconsin, United States, opened its doors in November 1915 and has been operating continuously ever since.
Geologic formation • Canyon • Valley
Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area
Parfrey's Glen, located within Devil's Lake State Park, is a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources-designated State Natural Area. The glen is a deep gorge cut through the sandstone of the south flank of the Baraboo Hills. It was the first State Natural Area to be designated in Wisconsin. The valley was named for Robert Parfrey.
Specialty museum • Museum
International Clown Hall of Fame
The International Clown Hall of Fame and Research Center, located in Baraboo, Wisconsin, United States, is dedicated to the preservation and advancement of clown art and achievement.
43°28'13"N • 89°44'37"W
Sauk County Courthouse
The Sauk County Courthouse, located at 515 Oak Street in Baraboo, is the county courthouse serving Sauk County, Wisconsin. Built in 1906, the courthouse is Sauk County's fourth and its third in Baraboo. Wisconsin architecture firm Ferry & Clas designed the Neoclassical building.
43°33'23"N • 89°38'25"W
Aldo Leopold Foundation
Historical place
Nightlife • Game and entertainment center • Gambling
Ho-Chunk Casino
Ho-Chunk Gaming - Wisconsin Dells is a Native American casino and hotel located in the Town of Delton, Wisconsin, between Wisconsin Dells and Baraboo. The casino is owned by the Ho-Chunk Nation of Wisconsin.

Day trips

Baraboo – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Baraboo, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Wisconsin State Capitol (Madison), Memorial Union Terrace (Madison), Cave of the Mounds (Blue Mounds).

33 milesSE
Palladian architecture, Museum, History museum
Wisconsin State Capitol, Madison
The Wisconsin State Capitol, a majestic building in Madison, Wisconsin, stands as a beacon of democracy and history. Erected on an isthmus between Lake Monona and Lake Mendota, this grand structure serves as both a working government facility and a cultural monument.
32 milesSE
Palladian architecture, Nightlife, Bars and clubs
Memorial Union Terrace, Madison
The Memorial Union Terrace, nestled on the shores of Lake Mendota in Madison, Wisconsin, is an iconic gathering spot renowned for its scenic views, vibrant atmosphere, and rich history. This lakeside terrace is part of the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Memorial...
32 milesS
Natural attraction, Geologic formation, Cave
Cave of the Mounds, Blue Mounds
Nestled in the rolling hills of Dane County, Wisconsin, the Cave of the Mounds stands as a premier natural attraction, inviting tourists to explore the underground wonders of this geological gem. Discovered accidentally in 1939 during a routine limestone quarry blast...
32 milesSW
Museum, History museum
House on the Rock, Spring Green
The House on the Rock is a tourist attraction located between the cities of Dodgeville and Spring Green, Wisconsin. Opened in 1959, it is a complex of architecturally distinct rooms, streets, gardens, and shops designed by Alex Jordan Jr.
28 milesSW
, Museum, Architecture
Taliesin, Spring Green
Taliesin, sometimes known as Taliesin East, Taliesin Spring Green, or Taliesin North after 1937, was the estate of American architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

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Best Time To Visit Baraboo

Learn when is the best time to travel to Baraboo weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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June, July and August are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in May.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in January and February. Most of it rains in June, July, August and September.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Baraboo?

The top attractions to visit in Baraboo are:

What is the best time to visit Baraboo?

June, July and August are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in May. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.