Welcome to the Wizard of Oz Museum in Wamego, Kansas! Here, you can step into the magical world of Oz and discover the history and legacy of one of the most beloved stories ever written. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the original novel or a casual admirer of the classic film adaptation, the Wizard of Oz Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves this timeless tale. Join us as we explore the museum’s fascinating exhibits, colorful displays, and enchanting artifacts that bring this legendary story to life.
The Wizard of Oz Museum in Kansas: A Must-See for Fans
The Wizard of Oz Museum in Kansas is a perfect destination for fans of the iconic film and literature series. The museum is located in Wamego, Kansas, a small town that was transformed into the magical world of Oz for the film’s 75th anniversary in 2014. Here’s everything you need to know about the museum.
Introduction to the Museum
The Wizard of Oz Museum was founded by a group of Oz enthusiasts in Wamego. It opened its doors in April 2003 to celebrate the centennial anniversary of L. Frank Baum’s book, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Since then, it has become a popular attraction for tourists from all over the world.
The museum has a collection of over 2,000 Oz-related artifacts, making it one of the world’s largest repositories of memorabilia from the series. The museum’s collection includes original props from the 1939 MGM film, rare books and manuscripts, and costumes worn by actors in the movie. The building that houses the museum is a replica of Dorothy’s house from the movie.
The Exhibits
The museum’s exhibits are organized thematically, and visitors can explore each one at their own pace. The first exhibit is called “The Wonderful World of Oz” and gives visitors an introduction to the series’ history. It includes a mural of Baum’s original illustrations and a timeline of the series’ cinematic adaptations.
The second exhibit, “The Land of Oz,” takes visitors on a journey through the movie’s different locations, including Munchkinland, the Emerald City, and the Wicked Witch’s castle. This exhibit includes interactive displays where visitors can try on costumes and take photos with characters from the movie.
The third exhibit, “The Ruby Slipper Collection,” features a collection of over 2,000 pairs of ruby slippers from the movie, as well as other iconic shoes from the series.
Other exhibits in the museum include “The Oz Legacy,” which explores the lasting impact of the series on popular culture, and “The Oz Children’s Education Center,” which offers hands-on learning activities for children.
Events and Activities
The museum hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year. Some of the most popular events include book readings from Oz-related authors and appearances by characters from the movie.
The museum also hosts an annual Oztoberfest, a three-day festival celebrating everything Oz. The festival includes a parade, live music, food vendors, and even a hot air balloon rally.
In addition to these events, the museum also offers guided tours for groups and educational programs for schools. Visitors can also shop for souvenirs and Oz-related merchandise at the museum’s gift shop.
In conclusion, the Wizard of Oz Museum in Kansas is a fascinating destination for fans of the beloved series. The museum’s extensive collection of artifacts and interactive exhibits offer a unique way to explore the world of Oz and its lasting impact on popular culture. If you’re planning a trip to Kansas, be sure to add the Wizard of Oz Museum to your itinerary!
Planning Your Visit to the Wizard of Oz Museum
Location and Hours of Operation
If you’re a fan of the beloved classic movie, The Wizard of Oz, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to visit the Wizard of Oz Museum in Kansas. The museum is located in the quaint little town of Wamego, Kansas, which is about 130 miles west of Kansas City.
The Wizard of Oz Museum sits on the corner of 5th and Lincoln Streets in Wamego, which is easily accessible by car. If you’re coming from Kansas City or Topeka, the museum is only about an hour’s drive.
If you’re planning a visit to the museum, it’s important to check the hours of operation beforehand. The museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except for major holidays such as Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Tickets and Admission Fees
The admission fee for the Wizard of Oz Museum varies depending on your age and the type of ticket you purchase. The basic admission fee for adults (ages 18-61) is $10. For seniors (62+) and military personnel (active or retired), the fee is $8. Children (ages 4-17) can get in for $6, and kids 3 and under are free.
If you’re planning a visit with a group of ten or more people, you can get a discounted group rate. The group rate is $8 per person for adults, $6 for seniors and military, and $4 for children.
If you’re a frequent visitor, it might be worth considering a membership. Membership fees start at $20 for an individual and go up to $150 for a family. Memberships come with free admission to the museum, as well as other perks such as discounts in the gift shop and invitations to exclusive events.
Tips for Visiting the Museum
Before you visit the museum, it’s a good idea to do a little research to learn about the history of The Wizard of Oz and its cultural significance. You can also check out the museum’s website to see what exhibits are currently on display, as well as any special events or exhibits that might be coming up.
When you arrive at the museum, take your time exploring all the exhibits and displays. Don’t forget to check out the gift shop, which is filled with Wizard of Oz merchandise and memorabilia.
If you’re traveling with young children, they will love the Children’s Discovery Room, which is full of interactive exhibits and activities.
Finally, if you’re planning to spend the whole day in Wamego, be sure to check out some of the other attractions in the area, such as the Oz Winery, the OZ Museum Gift Shop, and the Toto’s Tacoz food truck.
Visiting the Wizard of Oz Museum in Kansas is a magical experience that is not to be missed. With a little planning and preparation, you can make the most out of your visit and create unforgettable memories with your friends and family.
Supporting the Wizard of Oz Museum Kansas
The Wizard of Oz Museum in Kansas is a magical place filled with history and artifacts that bring the beloved story to life. The museum is dedicated to preserving the memories of the classic tale and its creator, L. Frank Baum. Visitors can explore exhibits and displays that showcase the movie’s costumes, props, posters, and other memorabilia. The museum’s mission is to keep the wizardry of Oz alive for future generations to enjoy and appreciate.
Volunteer Opportunities
There are many ways to support the Wizard of Oz Museum in Kansas, one of which is through volunteering. The museum offers various opportunities for individuals to give back to the community and assist in maintaining the museum’s operations. Volunteers can help with events, exhibits, and administrative tasks.
Whether you’re a fan of the Wizard of Oz or just a supporter of the museum’s mission, volunteering is a great way to show your support. Contact the museum’s staff to find out how you can assist with different events and tasks.
Donations and Sponsorship
The Wizard of Oz Museum in Kansas relies on the support of generous individuals and organizations to continue its operations. Donations and sponsorships are vital to the museum’s ability to maintain its exhibits and offer exciting events throughout the year. There are different ways to contribute to the museum through monetary or in-kind donations and sponsorship.
Monetary donations provide immediate support that the museum can use to sustain its operations, improve its exhibits, and provide new opportunities to visitors. In-kind donations allow contributors to donate items or services that the museum can use, such as materials for new exhibits, cleaning supplies, or technology. Sponsorships provide the opportunity for businesses to partner with the museum and support its operations and events.
If you’re interested in donating or sponsoring the Wizard of Oz Museum in Kansas, contact the museum’s staff to learn more and discuss your options.
Membership Benefits
Becoming a member of the Wizard of Oz Museum in Kansas comes with many perks and benefits. Members receive free admission to the museum for a year and exclusive discounts on gift shop items and events. Members also receive invitations to members-only events, such as premieres of new exhibits and special guest speakers.
If you’re a fan of the Wizard of Oz and want to support the museum’s mission, consider becoming a member. Your membership helps sustain the museum’s operations and ensures visitors can continue to enjoy its exhibits and events.
In conclusion, the Wizard of Oz Museum in Kansas provides visitors with hours of fun exploring the history and artifacts of the classic tale. The museum’s mission to preserve the story for future generations is possible, thanks to the support of generous donors, volunteers, and members. Whether you’re a fan of the Wizard of Oz or just a supporter of the museum’s mission, there are many ways to contribute to its success.