The author of The Wizard Of Oz, Lyman Frank Baum, lived a few miles from this park in the 1890s. The City of Chicago acquired the land in 1974, it was dedicated as “Oz Park” in 1976 to honor the children’s author, and over the years added sculptures of the Tin Man (1995), Cowardly Lion (2001), Scarecrow (2005), and Dorothy & Toto (2007) created by artist John Kearney. Wizard of Oz fans will also find “The Emerald Garden” and “Dorothy’s Playlot” among other Oz-themed inclusions.

The 13.5 acre park includes athletic fields and hosts events throughout the year, including Movies in the Park, where you can be sure The Wizard of Oz premiers at least once each year.