Musée du cirque et de l'illusion
About This Museum
So, picture this: we're out in the French countryside near Dampierre-en-Burly and stumble upon this absolute gem dedicated to circus arts and magic. It's not a stuffy hall of artifacts but a place that feels alive, where you half-expect a magician to pop out from behind a velvet curtain. You can get up close to vintage posters, intricate miniature circus models, and all sorts of quirky props that performers actually used. The whole place has this wonderfully playful energy that makes you feel like a kid again.
Collection Highlights
The collection is wild—think classic sleight-of-hand gadgets, beautifully creepy clown mannequins, and an entire room dedicated to the art of escape, just like Houdini. I spent ages looking at the tiny, detailed big top dioramas with acrobats frozen mid-act.
Visitor Information
Heads up, it's a bit off the beaten path on the D952 road, so driving is your best bet. Definitely check their opening times online before you go as they can be seasonal.
Architecture & Building
It's housed in what feels like a converted rustic farmhouse or large barn, which totally adds to its charming, slightly mysterious vibe.
Contact & Location
Address: Rue Nationale, Dampierre-en-Burly, Orléans, Loiret, Centre-Val de Loire, France métropolitaine, 45570, France
Phone: +33 2 38 35 67 50
Website: Visit Website
