Oz Park

Magical Oz-Themed Wonderland

Located in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood, Oz Park is a 14.40-acre green space with a unique character. With its Wizard of Oz theme, this charming space offers a touch of fantasy within the city. Named in 1976 to honor L. Frank Baum - the creative mind behind The Wonderful Wizard of Oz who once called Chicago home - this park blends whimsy with practicality in the best possible way.

As you wander through, you'll bump into familiar faces from the popular story: Dorothy and Toto, the Tin Man, Cowardly Lion, and Scarecrow stand as statues within the grounds. These aren't just for show - each comes with educational plaques that share cool tidbits about the characters and their Chicago connections. Kids (and let's be honest, adults too) love posing with these iconic figures.

Family Fun and Recreation

Families will find Dorothy's Playlot at the center of the park, a recently revamped playground designed for kids of all ages. The younger set (ages 2-5) has their own area, while older children (5-12) can enjoy wooden castle-like structures that seem pulled from a storybook. With swings, slides, and climbing equipment all within a fully enclosed space, you can relax a bit while the little ones explore.

Need a moment of calm? The Emerald Garden delivers just that. This serene spot showcases beautiful English roses, lavender, and other blooms, all lovingly maintained by dedicated neighbors. It's a great place to catch your breath or enjoy a quiet moment with a book.

For the more active visitors, the park offers several facilities. Well-kept tennis courts, basketball courts, and a baseball field with an all-dirt infield offer plenty of options to break a sweat. The paved walking paths and open green spaces are well-suited for morning jogs, bike rides, or just stretching your legs while taking in some fresh air.

Dorothy and Toto statue near the children's play area

Community Spirit and Seasonal Delights

Summer brings additional activities to Oz Park. The community gathers for free outdoor movie screenings (yes, including The Wizard of Oz), while kids participate in day camps, T-ball, and soccer classes. Those sprawling grassy areas transform into picnic spots and impromptu frisbee fields.

Leashed dogs are welcome to join you on the paths. Just note that while there aren't permanent restrooms, you'll come across portable toilets near the tennis courts when nature calls.

What makes this park special isn't just its literary nod but how it represents a genuine community hub. The Oz Park Advisory Council and local donors help maintain and develop the park. It's both a celebration of Baum's imagination and a practical, popular neighborhood space.

Entrance to the Emerald City Gardens with Scarecrow statue visible

Planning Your Visit

Oz Park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 11PM. If you're driving, you can try your luck with street parking in the surrounding area, but spaces can be scarce during peak times and weekends. Public transportation is often your best bet, and the park's location not far from Lincoln Park Zoo makes it easy to include in a day of Chicago exploring.

Looking for those character statues? You'll find Dorothy and Toto hanging out near the playground along W Webster Ave, the Tin Man standing tall at the corner of Webster and Larrabee, the Scarecrow guarding the east gate of the garden, and the Cowardly Lion keeping watch at the southeast corner where Larrabee meets Dickens.