Entry No. 7 — the Tampa file — filed under: history

International Independent Showmen's Museum

Preserving the eccentric legacy of nearby Gibsonton—the historic winter haven for carnival workers and sideshow performers—this 52,000-square-foot facility houses authentic carnival oddities and vintage sideshow banners. Displayed items include the custom 9-foot-tall outfit and giant boots of Johann Petursson ('The Viking Giant') alongside historic circus wagons and an operating early 1900s indoor Ferris wheel.

The move: Visit during weekend public hours to walk through vintage living trailers used by traveling performers, then explore Gibsonton's old carny neighborhood history.

📍 Riverview / Gibsonton
💸 $$
⚡ Up for anything
🌗 Indoors

Where: 6938 Riverview Dr, Riverview, FL 33578

Hours: Added 2026-07-21 — confirm current hours before you go.

#sideshow #carnival-history #museum #gibsonton #sideshow_history #carnival_lore

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Further reading: Official site · Atlas Obscura

last checked: 2026-07-21