While you are in the Delavan area, take advantage of the history and culture of the historic downtown area, which has a rich 19th century architectural heritage, with brick streets and unique shopping. Delavan was the home to hundreds of clowns and circus performers from over 26 circuses who set up their winter quarters in Delavan from 1847 to 1894. In fact the P.T. Barnum Circus...The Greatest Show On Earth was founded in Delavan in 1871. For a self-guided tour book contact the Chamber office at 800-624-0052 or 262-728-5095. Delavan Lake has nature walks, fishing, sailing, canoeing, swimming, water-skiing, parasailing, ice fishing, ice skating, cross-country skiing and snowmobile trails. Minutes from beautiful golf courses, lakes, parks, Geneva Lake, Alpine Valley.