Life was once a circus in Delavan. Between 1847 and 1894 more than 25 circus companies wintered in the community. The green spaces and pristine waters that supported circus animals also created Delavan's contemporary appeal. Today, the city manages more than 100 acres of natural preserves and parkland. Its colorful history, Wisconsin outdoor traditions and community celebrations provide four-season recreation and entertainment.
Discover Parks, Trails and Circus Animals
- Delavan's municipal park system offers a variety of outdoor recreation options. The 11,200-acre Andy's Park is a lighted skateboard/bike facility with pipes and walls. Stroll through the formal Rotary Gardens at the waterfront Congdon Park. A walking trail encircles the nearly 30-acre park. Trails at Ora Rice Arboretum and its sister facility, Paul Lange Arboretum, offer additional walking options. Located along Lake Comus, Paul Lange Arboretum also has a boat launch for water access. For winter play, Rudy Lange Sledding Hill is a family pick. The lighted facility offers a 355-foot sledding area. Kids get a kick out of seeing the full-size animal statues at Tower Park, which reflect Delavan's association with the circus. Municipal neighborhood parks and athletic fields create additional choices for outdoor play.
Explore Delavan Arts and Culture
- One of Wisconsin's oldest communities, Delavan's notable architecture dates to the 1800s. Take a driving tour to see Greek Revival and Queen Anne structures throughout the small town. Art and film take center stage during the summer at Phoenix Park Bandshell. Musical performances range from the Lake Geneva Symphony Orchestra to classic rock and blues. Performances take place Thursday and Saturday nights and Sunday afternoons. Bring the family, lawn chairs and snacks to the park for free outdoor screenings of feature films on a cinema-sized screen. The summertime Friday night movie events begin at dark. To learn more about local history, visit the Delavan Historical Society Exhibit and Resource Center. Displays of artifacts, documents and memorabilia change quarterly. The center welcomes visitors on Monday and Saturday and by appointment.
Experience Hometown Spirit
- Join in on a hometown celebration. In August, town folks put on a festive spirit for the three-day Delavan Daze festival. The downtown event includes live music, arts and crafts, sidewalk art and a flea market. Bring your dog to Tower Park for paw art, or simply observe other canines making art. Sunday's festival highlight is the Cruisin' Classics Car Show at Phoenix Park. In September, the Scarecrow Festival draws folks downtown to vote for their favorite decorated scarecrows, which are positioned throughout the district. For a small fee, you can make and take your own scarecrow. Other festival activities include pumpkin painting, live music, a craft fair and flea market.
Enjoy Wisconsin Wines
- Whether you're a wine aficionado or simply wish to learn more about Wisconsin wines, a visit to Staller Estate Winery in Delavan is a rewarding experience. Enjoy complimentary tastings of the winery's red, white and blush wines. For a more adventurous tasting experience, order a wine flight paired with a chocolate flight, cheese wheel or picnic plate. Savor the tasting seated in the winery's sun room or in the gazebo overlooking the scenic vineyards. You may wish to coordinate your visit with one of the winery's special events, which are held throughout the year and include: a Mother's Day dinner; the Ice Wine Release; Music, Chocolate and a Few Corks; and live music events.
