Our partnership with PLATO and the Verona Senior Center continues. Join us and celebrate the advent of summer with visits to the Circus World Museum, AL. Ringling Theatre, and Wollersheim Winery. This day trip is organized by PLATO.
You will have three hours to explore Circus World on your own. Circus World, owned and operated by the Wisconsin Historical Society, is located at the National Landmark Site of the original Ringling Bros. One of the highlights is the world's largest collection of more than 250 beautifully restored wagons. We will arrive in time to attend Circus World's signature show "Holidays" under the Big Top. Experience the gravity-defying artistry of an aerial hammock, an amazing display of equine artistry, joyous juggling, kooky comedy, and high-flying adventures with the Flying Poemas.
Then it's off to the Ringling Theatre in downtown Baraboo for a 60-minute guided tour. The 700-seat theatre was built in 1915 by Al Ringling, co-founder with his brothers of the world-renowned Ringling Brothers Circul, and designed in the opulent style of grand French opera houses. The theatre was built in a show of appreciation for Baraboo that the Ringling Brothers called home and the original site of the Ringling Bros Circus winter quarters.
On our way back to Madison we will stop at Wollersheim Winery for a 45-minute guided walking tour and learn about the winery's rich history. A sampling of three wines will be included.
Seating is limited, so register today!
Lunch
Lunch is on your own during the 3-hour visit at Circus World.
Options include the Cookhouse Gril, located next to the Hippodrome, has burgers, brats, chicken sandwiches, fries, pizza, and salads and other healthy options.
Additionally, Circus World offers a full range of circus treats located at stands throughout the grounds -- cotton candy, hot dogs, brats, popcorn, sno-cones, and ice cream!
For more upscale dining the Driftless Glen is rated the #1 restaurant in Baraboo and is a 5-minute walk from Circus World. View their menu at Driftless Glen.
Departure Locations and Schedule (Return times are approximate)
Please note that pick-up stops are different -- East Towne Sears, Capital Lakes, and Oakwood Village University Woods.
| 7:45 a.m. |
Bus arrives at East Towne Sears |
| 8:00 a.m. |
Departs East Towne Sears |
| 8:25 a.m. |
Departs Capitol Lakes |
| 9:00 a.m. |
Departs Oakwood Village-University Oaks, 6205 Mineral Point Rd
|
| 5:15 p.m. |
Return East Towne Sears |
| 5:45 p.m. |
Return Capital Lakes |
| 7:30 p.m. |
Return Oakwood Village University Oaks
|
Costs (Lunch is not included. See "Lunch" section above for options.)
Non-Wisconsin Historical Society Member Cost
$95 per person and includes bus transportation, driver tip, admission fees, tours. gratuities.
Wisconsin Historical Society Member Cost
$76 per person and includes bus transportation, driver tip, admission fees, tours. gratuities. NOTE: A current WHS membership card must be shown for admission to Circus World.
Accessibility
On the bus, participants must be able to climb steps to board and exit the bus. If you need assistance, PLATO requires that you bring a friend to give you a hand.
The AL. Ringling Theatre's main auditorium and lobby areas are accessible to wheelchair users and others with mobility difficulties.
At Wollersheim there is a 10 minute walk from the parking lot up a slight hill to the winery. The guided tour is primarily on hard surfaces like concrete or tiles. During the tour we will be walking or standing for 45 minutes, however there is a bench in the fermentation viewing area where you could sit for a few minutes while the guide talks about the fermentation process if you need a little break. There are a set of stairs on the tour but if needed you are welcome to use the elevator located next to the stairs.
Registration Details and Deadline
Register online. Mailed in reservations using the REGISTRATION FORM and checks are accepted. Registrations much be received no later than Sunday, June 1, 2025.
Refund Policy
UWRA refunds an event fee if cancelled prior to the registration deadline. Refunds after the registration deadline are only processed if a wait-listed registrant can attend. Refunds made by check.
Questions
Contact trip coordinator Sandi Haase at (sandi.haase@wisc.edu) or the UWRA office at 608-262-0641.
UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu
