Nestled just a short drive from the bustling Wisconsin Dells, the Al Ringling Mansion proved to be a hidden gem that we recently stumbled upon during our anniversary day trip. Though it was a last minute change of plans due to chilly and rainy July weather (Wisconsin...what is happening? Goosebumps in July!?), as avid fans of history and adventure seekers, we couldn't resist adding this historic landmark to our itinerary—and we're so glad we did!
Our journey began as we met our tour guide, Kelly, right at the mansion's entrance. Before delving into the mansion's storied past, Kelly suggested we start our experience at the attached brewery and restaurant. A relaxed atmosphere greeted us, complete with a tempting offer: a pint of the Pie Car Raspberry Rhubarb Sour, a refreshing brew that perfectly encapsulated the circus spirit with its tart and sweet notes—a fitting start to our adventure, not to mention, with a 50% tour discount, it was a steal, and a delicious start to the tour!
The mansion itself is simply charming. Unlike typical museum visits where artifacts are kept at arm's length, here we were encouraged to explore. Kelly, with her wealth of knowledge, regaled us with tales of the mansion's origins, its ties to the Ringling Brothers Circus, and even whispered stories of hauntings that intrigued our curious minds (cue the haunted mansion tour on our next visit!).
Original furnishings and decor adorned many rooms, each telling tales of the home's storied past. From stunning stained glass to elegant chandeliers, the mansion felt like a living time capsule. The collection of circus memorabilia was an absolute highlight. One photograph in particular, capturing the Ringling Circus's merge with Barnum's Circus, included the "Tallest Man in the World" with Tom Thumb seated right on his shoulder. Anyone with a "Greatest Showman" obsession, be sure to stop here for even a few PT Barnum pieces of memorabilia!
As we wandered, we discovered even more surprises—the very bathtub where Al Ringling met his end, a poignant reminder of the mansion's rich, albeit sometimes eerie, history. Kelly's mention of a "Hometown Horror" documentary piqued our interest, prompting a post-visit binge that fueled our excitement to return for more (maybe even a stay in Al Ringling's room itself!?)
After the tour, we headed back to the brewery area, where remnants of the mansion's past as an Elk's Lodge, complete with a bowling alley, seamlessly blended with its present-day charm. The bar and tables, crafted from reclaimed wood once part of bowling lanes, now provided a backdrop for our delicious lunch. The boneless wings and fries were a perfect lunch, and were complemented by an array of sauces that satisfied our taste buds (go for the garlic parmesan, you won't be disappointed!)
Throughout our visit, the staff's warmth and humor added to the welcoming atmosphere, making us feel comfortable and welcome. It was clear that the Al Ringling Mansion, with its evolving story and dedication to preserving circus lore, was a key component to Baraboo's past, and a must-visit site today.
As we bid farewell to this unforgettable experience, we couldn't help but reflect on the missed opportunities of previous visits to the Dells. For fellow Wisconsinites and travelers alike, a journey to the Al Ringling Mansion isn't just a trip through time—it's a chance to celebrate the legacy of Ringling and the circus arts, right in the heart of Wisconsin.
Whether you're a history buff, a circus aficionado, or simply seeking a unique stop on your travels, the Al Ringling Mansion promises an enriching adventure that begs to be revisited. For us, it's become a must-see destination we'll eagerly share with family and friends—a testament to the enduring magic of the circus and the allure of Wisconsin's hidden treasures.
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