Oz Park
A whimsical Chicago park celebrating the Wizard of Oz with a themed playground and character statues.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more playtime
Oz Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more playtime
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A whimsical Chicago park celebrating the Wizard of Oz with a themed playground and character statues.
"Oz Park is a little slice of the Land of Oz right smack dab in the middle of Chicago."
🎯 Arrive Early for Playtime
This playground gets busy on weekends. Arrive early to snag the best spots and avoid crowds.
✨ Embrace the Theme
Wander the park to find all the Wizard of Oz character statues for a nostalgic stroll.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wizard of Oz Playground
Main playground area
A newly renovated, safe, and fun playground with nods to the beloved film.
Character Statues
Throughout the park
Find Dorothy, the Tin Man, Scarecrow, and the Cowardly Lion scattered throughout.
Emerald City Gardens
Designated garden area
A tranquil spot to relax and soak in the whimsical Oz theme.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Oz Park
Navigating Oz Park's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Playtime
This playground gets busy on weekends. Arrive early to snag the best spots and avoid crowds.
✨ Embrace the Theme
Wander the park to find all the Wizard of Oz character statues for a nostalgic stroll.
🌳 Relax in Emerald City
The Emerald City Gardens offer a peaceful escape within the park's whimsical theme.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking lots are available but can fill up quickly on busy days. Consider public transport.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Playtime
This playground gets busy on weekends. Arrive early to snag the best spots and avoid crowds.
✨ Embrace the Theme
Wander the park to find all the Wizard of Oz character statues for a nostalgic stroll.
🌳 Relax in Emerald City
The Emerald City Gardens offer a peaceful escape within the park's whimsical theme.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking lots are available but can fill up quickly on busy days. Consider public transport.
🚧 Check Renovation Status
The playground has been renovated. Confirm completion status before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Oz Park's delightful Wizard of Oz theme, especially the newly renovated playground which is a hit with families. The scattered character statues add to the nostalgic charm, making it a unique and enjoyable spot for both kids and adults. Some mention that the park can get crowded on weekends, and it's worth checking renovation statuses.
"What an awesome park! I walked up here from downtown (on a scavenger hunt - a friend set me on an adventure to see a bunch of things).
It was raining a little when I got there, and evening, so the park was near empty.
I loved the Oz theme!!"
Robbie Cannings
"A super cute and small park. I loved walking around, trying to find the statues. The Emerald City Gardens were very inviting and a nice place to relax"
Dawn Cose-LaFountain
"This was a nice little park to stroll through. Especially if you want to feel nostalgic with some Wizard of Oz. There’s several locations throughout the park with statues of different characters from the show. Not to far from Lincoln Park Zoo."
Keith M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oz Park is located at 2021 N Burling St, Chicago, IL 60614. It's accessible via public transportation, with several bus routes nearby. Many visitors also find it convenient to combine a visit with the nearby Lincoln Park Zoo.
Yes, there are parking lots available, but they can get crowded, especially on weekends. Arriving early is recommended if you plan to drive.
While it's a bit of a walk from the heart of downtown, some visitors have enjoyed walking to Oz Park as part of a scavenger hunt or a longer exploration of the city.
For families, public transport or ride-sharing services can be convenient. The park is also a great destination for a leisurely stroll if you're staying in the Lincoln Park area.
Oz Park is conveniently located near the Lincoln Park Zoo, making it easy to combine a visit to both attractions for a full day of family fun.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Oz Park is a public park and does not require an admission fee. Entry is free for all visitors.
As a public park, Oz Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific hours may vary slightly, but it's typically accessible throughout the day.
Yes, Oz Park is designed to be enjoyed by all ages. It features a playground for children and themed areas that appeal to adults and fans of the Wizard of Oz.
While not a ticketed venue, Oz Park is a popular spot for community gatherings and family outings. Keep an eye on local event listings for any special happenings.
Typically, dogs are allowed in Chicago parks on a leash. However, it's always a good idea to check the specific park rules or signage upon arrival.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Oz Park offers a themed playground, statues of Wizard of Oz characters like Dorothy and the Scarecrow, and the Emerald City Gardens for relaxation. It also has tennis courts and a baseball diamond.
The newly renovated playground is designed to be safe and fun for children of various ages, including toddlers. It features updated equipment with references to the Wizard of Oz.
Oz Park is a charming, relatively small park, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a focused visit to enjoy its unique theme and playground.
Restrooms are typically available near the playground and parking areas within Oz Park.
Take your time to wander through the park, discover the character statues, and enjoy the playground. It's a great spot for photos and a bit of nostalgic fun.
📸 📸 Photography
The character statues, especially Dorothy's, and the playground itself offer great photo opportunities. The Emerald City Gardens also provide a picturesque backdrop.
Absolutely! The whimsical Wizard of Oz theme makes Oz Park a unique and fun location for family portraits, especially with the colorful playground and character statues.
Drone usage in Chicago parks is generally restricted. It's best to check the official Chicago Park District regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and crowds.
Look for the statues of Dorothy, the Tin Man, Scarecrow, and the Cowardly Lion. The playground's design also incorporates many subtle and overt references to the film.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
You'll find statues of Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion scattered throughout the park, making for fun photo opportunities and a scavenger hunt for little ones. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the Emerald City Gardens, a peaceful area within the park.
✨ Wizard of Oz Enthusiasts
While it's not a theme park, the detailed theming and the connection to the author's history make Oz Park a unique and nostalgic experience for any true fan.
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
The Emerald City Gardens provide a more serene, picturesque setting. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Wizard of Oz Connection
This connection makes Oz Park more than just a playground; it's a piece of literary history nestled within the vibrant city. The park's updates have ensured that these nods to Baum's work remain prominent and engaging for new generations of fans.
Playground Paradise
Parents appreciate the updated equipment, which offers a variety of activities for different age groups. From climbing structures to imaginative play areas, the playground provides ample opportunities for children to burn energy and have fun. The attention to detail in the design ensures that the Oz theme is present throughout, making it a standout destination for kids.
+1Community and Nostalgia
Many visitors share fond memories of the park, whether from childhood visits or recent outings with their own families. The park's ability to evoke a sense of wonder and joy is a testament to its enduring appeal. It's a reminder of how beloved stories can translate into tangible, enjoyable public spaces.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit