Discover Oz Park in Chicago
If there’s one American city that has a landmark for everyone, it's got to be Chicago. Wander down its expansive streets and you’ll uncover everything from one-of-a-kind temples to Shit fountains. If you’re an art lover, check out the Picasso Statue. Fancy a dip? Head to Montrose Beach! Adding to that, if you’ve ever had an urge to jump into the beloved world of The Wizard of Oz, we suggest you head to Oz Park!
Named after the timeless classic written in 1900, this 14.4-acre park in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, is a blend of family-friendly fun and peaceful natural beauty. Its sculptures, play areas, various sports facilities, and well-maintained gardens make it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists.
Creating Oz Park in Chicago
Oz Park’s transformation into the magical space we see today began in the 1960s, during a period when the surrounding Lincoln Park area was in need of revitalization. Once considered a run-down section of the city, the neighborhood became the prime target for a makeover.
In 1974, the Chicago Park District acquired the 13-acre plot of land, and two years later, the park was officially named in honor of author Lyman Frank Baum, who had lived in Chicago during the late 19th century.
Baum, best known for his iconic Oz series, lived just a few miles away from what would become Oz Park. It seemed fitting to immortalize his legacy here, and so the park was named after the fictional land that has captivated readers and movie-goers for decades.
By 1976, the park had officially adopted its name, and the Lincoln Park Conservation Association began transforming the land into a public space that would celebrate The Wonderful Wizard of Oz in a fun and engaging way.
Wizard of Oz Sculptures in Oz Park
One of the standout features of the park is the collection of statues representing the characters from Baum’s story. These sculptures began to appear in the park in the mid-1990s. The first of these was the Tin Man, installed in 1995. Over the next several years, other characters followed: the Cowardly Lion in 2001, the Scarecrow in 2005, and finally Dorothy & Toto in 2007.
The statues are scattered throughout the park, allowing guests to embark on their own "journey to Oz" as they wander through its peaceful pathways. Let’s take a look at the various sculptures in more detail:
The Tin Man Statue
One of the most recognizable characters from The Wizard of Oz, the Tin Man, stands proudly at seven feet tall, in Oz Park. Sculpted by John Kearney, the statue is crafted entirely from metal, echoing the character's need for a heart in the classic story.
The Tin Man is positioned in a quiet corner of the park, offering a striking visual against the green landscape. Visitors often stop to admire its detail and take photos with this iconic figure, who reminds us that compassion and love are considerable gifts.
The Cowardly Lion Statue
The Cowardly Lion, another beloved character from Baum’s classic, represents the quest for courage. Also sculpted by John Kearney, this statue is a favorite among park visitors.
Perched as if guarding a quiet area of the park, the Lion is a powerful figure in bronze, capturing the character’s bravery and vulnerability. Its lifelike details, from the mane to the posture, make it a must-see for any fan of the tale.
The Scarecrow Statue
The Scarecrow, who wished for brains, stands tall in another corner of the park. Sculpted with the same careful attention to detail as the other statues, the Scarecrow appears friendly and thoughtful, his head tilted slightly as if in contemplation. The Scarecrow's role as a symbol of wisdom shines through in this artistic rendition, making it a popular spot for quiet reflection in the park.
The Dorothy & Toto Statue
Perhaps the most heartwarming of all the statues is that of Dorothy and her faithful companion, Toto. This statue captures the spirit of the young girl who embarked on a journey through the Land of Oz, guided by her hope and resilience.
The bronze sculpture features Dorothy with Toto at her feet, holding her iconic basket. It’s a beautiful tribute to the character’s determination and the bond between girl and dog, and it’s a favorite for families and children to visit.
Things to Do at Oz Park
Oz Park isn’t just about the statues; there are a variety of activities and areas designed for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
Let’s take a closer look at things to do in Oz Park:
Play at Dorothy’s Playlot
Dorothy’s Playlot is a colorful, Wizard of Oz themed playground designed with young children in mind. This whimsical space features a wooden castle maze, swings, slides, and climbing equipment, making it a fun and magical spot for kids. Younger children can explore the smaller, toddler-friendly structures, which include a wooden train and rocking animals.
Named after Dorothy Melamerson, a retired local schoolteacher who contributed to many improvements in the area, the playlot is a place where kids can let their imaginations run wild as they interact with the structures in a safely enclosed area.
Explore the “Emerald Garden”
Adjacent to the playground, the Emerald Garden is a beautifully landscaped area filled with English roses, lavender, and butterfly bushes. Named after the Emerald City from The Wizard of Oz, the garden invites visitors to relax and enjoy nature. It's especially popular during the spring and summer months when the flowers are in full bloom. Visitors can take a slow stroll through the garden or sit on one of the benches to enjoy a book or a quiet moment for meditation.
Walking Trails
Oz Park’s well-maintained trails make it a fantastic place for walking or jogging. The park has several open green spaces as well as tree-lined paths that provide a peaceful environment for those looking to exercise or just enjoy the outdoors. Along the way, the park’s various statues will reveal themselves to the visitors.
Picnic Areas and Relaxation Spots
For those looking to enjoy a picnic, Oz Park has plenty of spots where visitors can lay down a blanket and spend a few hours in the sunshine with friends or family. The open green spaces offer ample room for picnics, and there are picnic tables scattered throughout the park. Due to the park’s convenient benches, it's a great place to enjoy a quick lunch-break.
Sporting Activities
For the sports enthusiast, there are athletic facilities such as tennis courts, basketball courts, and a field for baseball or other sports. The park also hosts summer day camps, offering T-ball, golf lessons, and various youth activities, making it a hotspot for local families during warmer months.
Seasonal Events
Oz Park also participates in the Chicago Park District’s “Movies in the Park” program during the summer, where visitors can catch a family-friendly film under the stars. Other seasonal events include a pumpkin patch for children in the fall and festivals like Art Therapy Connection’s Chalk Festival.
Maintaining Oz Park
Though it’s now a thriving community hub, Oz Park’s beginnings are rooted in the city’s efforts to improve a neighborhood that had fallen on hard times. The collaboration between the Lincoln Park Conservation Association and the Chicago Park District turned this vision into a reality.
Over the years, the Oz Park Advisory Council has continued to fundraise for the park’s enhancements, raising significant sums to support the maintenance of its features, including the statues, play areas, and gardens.
Today, Oz Park is both a tribute to Baum’s legacy and a symbol of the positive impact of urban renewal. It is not just a playground or a park—it is a celebration of imagination, community, and history.
Visiting Oz Park in Chicago
Oz Park is easily accessible to both residents and tourists. It's open year-round, and the best times to visit are during the warmer months when the gardens are in full bloom, and outdoor activities like picnics and sporting events can be enjoyed. The park is well-connected by public transportation, and parking can be found nearby, though street parking can sometimes be challenging, especially on weekends.
If you’re visiting with children, plan to spend time at Dorothy’s Playlot or exploring the whimsical statues scattered across the park. For nature lovers, a walk through the Emerald Gardens provides a refreshing break from the city’s hustle and bustle. Don't forget to snap some photos with your favorite Oz characters—these sculptures are Instagram-worthy stops for any fan of The Wizard of Oz.
Explore Beyond Oz Park with CityDays
If your visit to Oz Park has sparked your sense of adventure, consider exploring even more of Chicago with CityDays. We offer scavenger and treasure hunt tours designed for team-building exercises, group outings, or just a fun day of exploration. Our tours take you beyond the bounds of Oz Park, guiding you through Chicago's hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and lesser-known wonders.
CityDays tours aren't limited to Chicago—our experiences are available globally, offering an exciting way to explore cities like New York, London, and many more. So, after enjoying Oz Park, why not dive deeper into Chicago's rich history, culture, and hidden treasures?
