What happened to Circus World in Florida?


What happened to Circus World in Florida? Circus World was sold several times, and the theme park was eventually shut down in 1986 by then-owners Harcourt Brace and Jovanovich. The attraction was rebuilt and opened as Boardwalk and Baseball in 1987, before being sold again along with SeaWorld Orlando and Cypress Gardens to the Busch Entertainment Corporation.


Why did the circus shut down?

The circus cited steeply declining ticket sales associated with the loss of the elephants combined with high operating costs as reasons for the closure, along with animal cruelty concerns.


Who owns Circus World?

It is owned by the Wisconsin Historical Society and operated by the non-profit Circus World Museum Foundation.


When did Circus World close in Florida?

Circus World History While the location was great – at the intersection of US Highway 27 and Interstate 4, just 10 minutes from Walt Disney World – the grand plans, including a 10 story elephant shaped hotel, were deemed to expensive as interest waned. The park was sold several times and finally closed on May 10, 1986.


Why did Circus World close?

Circus World History While the location was great – at the intersection of US Highway 27 and Interstate 4, just 10 minutes from Walt Disney World – the grand plans, including a 10 story elephant shaped hotel, were deemed to expensive as interest waned. The park was sold several times and finally closed on May 10, 1986.


What is the oldest theme park in Florida?

History. Billed as Florida's first commercial tourist theme park, Cypress Gardens opened on January 2, 1936, as a botanical garden planted by Dick Pope Sr. and his wife Julie.