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Best Circus Experiences In Orange County

Ruby Karen Project header
(credit: Ruby Karen Project)

What kid doesn't dream of joining the circus? In Orange County, you can live the big-top experience without running away from home. Take in a three-ring spectacular, dine in a festive theater atmosphere or train to become part of the show. Orange County offers many delightful alternatives for reliving childhood dreams, as well as creating new memories for your own children.

Ringling Bros.
(credit: Ringling Bros. And Barnum & Bailey Circus)

Ringling Bros. And Barnum & Bailey Circus
Honda Center
2695 E. Katella Ave.
Anaheim, CA 92806
(714) 704-2400
www.ringling.com

One of the best ways to experience the circus is surely at "The Greatest Show on Earth." The pageantry, the performances, the popcorn; Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey continues to deliver classic circus entertainment in the manner you loved as a kid, which will thrill your own kids. The entertainers are engaging, the performances are jaw dropping and the animals are unreal. The spectacle in its entirety is as impressive as it is timeless. Whether your first or 50th show, this circus is not to be missed.

cal elite kids
(credit: Cal Elite Kids)

Cal Elite Kids Circus Arts Camp
22982 Avenida Empresa
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
(949) 589-1512
www.calelitekids.com

Athleticism and entertainment come together at Cal Elite Kids camps. Boasting "30,000 square feet of fun and excitement," Elite Kids state-of-the-art gymnastic center builds endurance and self-esteem while creating junior performers and gymnasts. Girls and boys ages 3 and up can participate and will enjoy tumbling, aerial acrobatics, dance and theater classes and workshops. Twist, tumble, swing and spin as you safely learn the tricks and techniques of these amazing performers.

Ruby Karen Project
(credit: Ruby Karen Project)

Ruby Karen Project
2777 Bristol Ave., Suite D
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 330-7484
www.rubykaren.com

Have you ever wanted to fly through the air with the greatest of ease? Ruby Karen, founder of Orange County Aerial Arts, can teach you how. The Ruby Karen Project is a mobile organization providing instruction for thrill-seeking students and aerial performances for fortunate audiences. Interested acrobats, age 6 and up, will benefit from Ruby Karen's world-class training on rings, rigging and all manner of aerial apparatus. For fun, fitness and skills training, classes and camps are designed for children, teens, adults and seniors. Reservations are recommended.

Related: Best Improv Shows In Orange County

Farrell's
(credit: Farrell's Ice Cream Parlour)

Farrell's Ice Cream Parlour Restaurant
Various Locations
www.farrellsusa.com

Farrell's Restaurant has a carnival atmosphere and thrilling family entertainment, and the show never leaves town. If you crave the amusement of the circus, but are more keen on wonderful food than on acrobatic elephants, Farrell's is your outlet. Clowning, singing, sirens, balloon animals and loads and loads of ice cream are the hallmark of this delightful retreat. Bring your birthday party, your softball celebration, your first date or even just a friend or two and enjoy a bucket of dessert and a wholly impressive daily floor show.

adventure city
(credit: Deidre' B./Yelp)

Adventure City
1238 South Beach Blvd.
Anaheim, CA 92804
(714) 236-9300
www.adventurecity.com

Adventure City has performers, rides, animals and all the excitement and attraction of the big top, if not with the actual giant tent. The smell of popcorn, fried delicacies and the sound of calliope music pervade this intimate festival ground. Unlike your favorite circus or fair, you needn't wait for Adventure City to roll into town. You can visit year round. Discount tickets and meal packages are available for birthday parties and groups. See website for details.

Related: 5 Free Things To Do In Newport Beach

Christopher Schmidt is a freelance writer experiencing and espousing the glory that is Orange County. Driven to travel, drawn to sports, spirits and celebrity, Chris' work can be found on
Examiner.com.

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