The circus didn’t become a part of the American entertainment scene until 1793 when it was thrust into the public eye by John Bill Rickets. Rickets started out with a simple equestrian act but as his show became more popular he added rope walkers, acrobats, and clowns. Today’s circus acts are all different but all draw upon the basic principles introduced by Rickets in the late 1700’s, and each has something extra special to offer.

10. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Zing Zang Zoom

Zing Zang Zoom is a special show that tours as a part of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey group. This incredibly laughable group of clowns spends most of its time on the west coast, entertaining guests as the “Zingmaster” and his assistance try to keep patrons laughing while the depressing “heavies” try to bring things down. Show up at least an hour before the show and you’ll have a chance to see some of the pre-show action provided by Clown College graduates.

9. Cirque du Soleil, LOVE – Las Vegas

Showing at the Mirage in Las Vegas is the incredible collaboration put together after Cirque do Soleil founder Guy Laliberte and Sir George Martin, the producer for The Beatles, became friends. The two teamed up to create a stunning, unique performance filled with acrobatics, aerial stunts, and freestyle dance set to some of the most popular Abbey Road tracks.

8. Big Apple Circus – New York, NY

The Big Apple Circus is a permanent fixture in the New York City area and has been voted one of the best circus acts for families to enjoy together. You must arrive early in order to get great seats. There are only 16 rows surrounding this show, carefully placed to guarantee you’ll never be more than 50 feet away from the action.

7. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, Over the Top

If you’re looking for a traditional, classical circus performance than you need to look no further than the Over the Top show by Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey. The show features clowns, trick riders, motorcycle stunts, and a whole lot of laughter to entertain guests of all ages and from all walks of life.

6. Cirque du Soleil, Zumanity – New York and Las Vegas

The Cirque du Soleil show, Zumanity, is a huge favorite not for children, but for adults. As a matter of fact, you have to be at least 18 years of age to gain entry to this adult-themed show. You’ll be able to sit in a cabaret stool, in a theatre seat, or on a romantic sofa where you can snuggle with your honey throughout the show. The show features acrobatic acts, dance, and lots tons of excitement.

5. Cirque du Soleil, Kooza

The Cirque du Soleil show, Kooza, has been named one of the best traveling circus shows. The Innocent, the main character, is on a quest to determine exactly what his place is in this cold, hard world. Along the way he meets a wide variety of jugglers, trapeze artists, and entertaining characters, all performing stunts either on the ground to anywhere up to 30 feet in the air.

4. Cirque du Soleil, KA – MGM Grand, Las Vegas

The story of KA is about two twins in search of their own unique destinies. Perfect for families, this show is littered with amazing and astounding special effects. The creators made use of video projection, acrobatics, martial arts, and pyrotechnics to create a show that will have you and the kids on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.

3. Cirque du Soleil, O – Las Vegas

The Cirque du Soleil show known as “O” is considered one of the best permanent circus shows in the country. Residing in the beautiful Bellagio of Las Vegas, the entire show takes place in, over, and around a 1.5 million gallon swimming pool. Special features include high diving acts, contortionists, and an aerial trapeze artist.

2. UniverSoul

The UniverSoul tour group is a multicultural circus that travels the world to share a wide variety of entertaining acts. Shows feature circus artists from Africa, China, Brazil, Russia and Europe and they perform to some amazing music, including gospel, hip-hop, and R&B. Special props to this circus group for their ingenious use of funky music. Keep your eyes peeled for this group – they don’t tour often.

1. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, Coney Island Boom-a-Ring – New York

On fabulous Coney Island in New York you’ll find yet another stellar show by Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey.  The Coney Island Boom-a-Ring show was voted one of the best shows featuring animals. With six white Bengal tigers, dachshund dogs, and a few other surprises, this show promises to be a real treat.

Ready to join the circus? Why not start out by visiting the local circus the next time it comes to town – or checking out one these incredible shows if they ever tour near you. A night at the circus is one you’ll always remember!