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Circus Building

Please note: The Circus Building is closed for a major preservation project and will reopen in 2028. The Carousel will continue to operate during the project. The Circus Building and Carousel are favorite attractions for families visiting Shelburne Museum. The fanciful, horseshoe-shaped Circus Building was specifically designed to showcase the hand-carved miniature Arnold Circus Parade, which stretches nearly the full length of the building’s 518 feet. The Circus Building is also where you will find enchanting, hand-painted carousel figures—horses, tigers, giraffes, and more—made by the renowned Gustav Dentzel Carousel Company.

The spruce and cedar Circus Building was conceived in the 1950s, completed in 1965, and completely renovated in 2008. Huge boulders elevate the foundation and serve as the base for a rock garden. A stone arch allows visitors to go inside, outside, and under this unique building.

An operating vintage carousel operates just outside the Circus Building (weather permitting) mid-May through mid-October from 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

Rent the Circus Lawn and Carousel for your event or celebration!