Things To Do
in Baraboo
Baraboo is a charming city located in south-central Wisconsin, United States. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with rolling hills, lush forests, and sparkling lakes surrounding the area. The city is also famous for being the home of the Circus World Museum, showcasing the rich history of the circus in America.
Residents and visitors alike enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and a welcoming community atmosphere in Baraboo.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike at Devil's Lake State Park. Enjoy the breathtaking views and the fresh morning air.
Grab lunch at a local cafe and visit the Circus World Museum to learn about the history of circus entertainment. Engage with fun exhibits and live performances.
Relax with dinner at a nearby restaurant, savoring local flavors. Wind down by taking a leisurely walk around Baraboo's historic downtown.
Visit the Baraboo Art Association to see local artists' displays. Participate in a morning workshop if available.
Have lunch at a local bistro and then head to the Al Ringling Theatre for a guided tour. Appreciate the architecture and history of this iconic venue.
Catch a live show at the Al Ringling Theatre if one is scheduled. Enjoy a late dinner at a nearby eatery.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including access to the Baraboo Hills and Devil's Lake State Park
- Rich historical significance with attractions like the Al Ringling Theatre and the Circus World Museum
- Strong sense of community with numerous local events and festivals
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in the region
- Outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and camping
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors compared to larger urban areas
- Harsh winters can be challenging for some residents
- Public transportation options are limited
- May lack some amenities and entertainment options available in bigger cities
- Smaller population may lead to less diversity in dining and cultural experiences
Best Activities in Baraboo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A popular destination for hiking, swimming, and rock climbing, Devil's Lake State Park offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding cliffs, along with numerous trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
Explore the history of the circus at this outdoor museum, featuring live performances, exhibits, and interactive displays that celebrate Baraboo's rich circus heritage.
A family-friendly outdoor zoo featuring native and exotic animals, picnic areas, and walking trails, making it a great place to enjoy a leisurely day with kids.
Experience the beauty of the Baraboo River with kayaking and canoeing opportunities, offering a peaceful way to explore the waterways and surrounding nature.
This scenic trail offers opportunities for hiking and biking along the picturesque landscape, with beautiful views of the area’s unique rock formations.
Places to Visit in Baraboo
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning natural area featuring cliffs, a glacial lake, and miles of hiking trails. The views from the mountain tops, especially from the East and West Bluffs, are breathtaking, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Located in the heart of Baraboo, this museum offers a glimpse into the rich history of the circus. The colorful tents and exhibits provide unique photo opportunities, particularly during special events.
This scenic route offers picturesque views of rolling hills, farmland, and the Baraboo Bluffs. It’s perfect for road trips and photography, especially during fall when the leaves change colors.
A serene and scenic pathway along the Baraboo River that features beautiful views of the water, wildlife, and surrounding scenery, making it a perfect spot for capturing nature photos.
This park provides beautiful vistas over Lake Wisconsin and the surrounding forests. It's a great location for sunset photography and enjoying peaceful nature scenes.
Located near the north shore of Devil’s Lake, this overlook provides one of the best panoramic views in the area, ideal for capturing stunning photographs.
Another fantastic viewpoint that offers expansive views of the surrounding valley, perfect for panoramic shots and capturing the essence of the Baraboo region.
Food in Baraboo
Baraboo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Wisconsin classic, these deep-fried cheese curds are a must-try for cheese lovers. Enjoy them at Driftless Glen Distillery or the Barn Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Experience the traditional Door County fish boil, featuring Lake Michigan whitefish, potatoes, and onions boiled in a seasoned broth. Find this dish at Driftless Glen Distillery or local supper clubs.
A Wisconsin take on the classic cocktail, made with brandy, bitters, and muddled fruit. Try it at local bars like The Barn or Al. Ringling Brewing Co.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods at the Baraboo Farmers Market. Open on Saturdays, this market is a great place to sample local flavors and support area producers.
Keep an eye out for the Food Truck Round-Up events, where you can enjoy a variety of street foods ranging from gourmet tacos to wood-fired pizza while taking in live music and a lively atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Baraboo is known for its natural beauty, including parks and forests. Residents and visitors are encouraged to respect the environment, follow park rules, and engage in responsible outdoor activities.
Baraboo has a strong sense of community. Engaging in local events, volunteering, and supporting local businesses are valued practices. It's important to show an interest in community concerns and participate in civic activities.
Interactions in Baraboo should be approached with politeness. Greetings, such as saying 'hello' or 'thank you,' are common and appreciated. Being considerate in conversations and personal space is also important.
Safety
Tipping in Baraboo
Ensure a smooth experience
In Baraboo, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is a customary practice, particularly in service industries such as restaurants, bars, and hotels. The standard tip amount is usually 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the level of service received. Tipping is generally considered a way to show appreciation for good service, and many service workers rely on tips as a significant portion of their income.
Payment practices in Baraboo reflect contemporary American norms. Most establishments accept a variety of payment methods including cash, credit cards, and mobile payment options. It is common for businesses to display payment options clearly at the point of sale. In addition to traditional payment methods, newer forms such as contactless payments and apps are increasingly gaining popularity among consumers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Baraboo typically sees mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities. Expect temperatures ranging from the mid-30s°F to mid-70s°F. Popular activities include hiking at Devil's Lake State Park and enjoying local events like the Baraboo Spring Craft Fair.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Baraboo, with warm weather perfect for outdoor adventures. Temperatures can range from the mid-50s°F to 80s°F. Expect festivals, water activities at local lakes, and visits to attractions like the Circus World Museum and the Wisconsin Dells.
Fall is a stunning season to visit Baraboo, characterized by vibrant foliage and cooler weather. Expect temperatures ranging from the 30s°F to 60s°F. Enjoy scenic drives, hiking, and local harvest festivals, such as the Baraboo Fall Festival, showcasing the beauty of the changing leaves.
Winter in Baraboo brings cold temperatures and snow, ranging from the teens°F to 30s°F. This season is ideal for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. Visitors can also explore the winter attractions and enjoy cozy activities in town, along with holiday-themed events during December.
Baraboo at Night
Hiking in Baraboo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination featuring stunning bluffs, beautiful lake views, and a variety of trails ranging from easy to challenging.
A scenic area with trails that wind along a deep gorge featuring waterfalls and unique rock formations, ideal for a more tranquil hike.
This park offers a unique hiking experience with natural rock formations, river views, and diverse wildlife along its trails.
Wisconsin's first state natural area, featuring a beautiful glacial gorge and diverse plant life, with trails that follow a serene creek.
Located near the Merrimac Ferry, this area features trails that offer picturesque views of the Wisconsin River and surrounding landscapes.
Aiports
How to reach Baraboo by plane.
Located approximately 50 miles northeast of Baraboo, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights.
Situated around 85 miles southeast of Baraboo, this airport serves a larger number of domestic and international flights.
About 140 miles southeast of Baraboo, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world, providing extensive domestic and international connections.
Located approximately 135 miles southeast of Baraboo, Midway offers numerous domestic flights and a smaller range of international services.
Around 85 miles west of Baraboo, this regional airport provides a limited number of flights primarily to major hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant demographic group in Baraboo, representing the largest percentage of the population.
A significant minority group in Baraboo, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
A smaller demographic group in Baraboo, adding to the community's diversity.
A minority group in Baraboo, representing a small percentage of the population.
An underrepresented demographic group in Baraboo.
Includes individuals from various other racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport among students and locals, often played in schools and recreational leagues.
High school football games draw significant local interest, with a well-supported community presence.
A favorite pastime during the summer months, with local leagues and youth teams actively participating.
Gaining popularity among youth and families, with various leagues and clubs available.
Given Baraboo's proximity to natural attractions like Devil's Lake State Park, outdoor activities like hiking are very popular.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Baraboo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several restaurants in Baraboo offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as fresh salads, veggie tacos, and plant-based burgers. Be sure to check out The Broadway Diner and A OK Coffee Co.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy a variety of gluten-free options at eateries in Baraboo, including gluten-free pizza, pasta, and sandwiches available at The Barn Restaurant and Deli Bean.