Ready to click your heels and sashay straight into the magical world of Oz? With the highly anticipated Wicked movie out, there’s never been a better time to explore Wizard of Oz travel destinations. Whether you’re team classic Dorothy, obsessed with Wicked, or just love a good campy pop culture-inspired getaway, this guide is here to sprinkle some glitter on your travel plans.
From ruby slippers to the Emerald City (and maybe even a witch or two), these Wizard of Oz-themed trips in the U.S. are pure magic. So, grab your traveling companions—Glinda fans, Elphaba stans, and Toto enthusiasts alike—it’s time to follow the yellow brick road. Trust us, there’s no place like Oz.
1. Start Where It All Began: Wamego, Kansas
Location Highlights
- Oz Museum: Packed with over 2,000 treasures from the iconic movie and L. Frank Baum’s novels, this spot is basically Oz heaven. If you’re a superfan (or just Oz-curious), you have to check it out.
- Oztoberfest (yes, it’s as fabulous as it sounds): Every fall, this annual fest serves up costumes, movie screenings, and themed activities so fun, even the Wicked Witch might crack a smile.
- Need a break from all the Oz-tastic excitement? Stroll through the charming local cafes and shops nearby—because every trip needs a little cozy small-town magic.
Why it’s a Wizard of Oz Travel Must
Wamego serves up small-town Kansas charm with a side of Dorothy realness. And if you’re more of a Team Elphaba kind of person, it’s the perfect spot to channel your green witch energy. Seriously, can we talk about how she wasn’t totally off base about those flying monkeys?
2. Experience the Emerald City…in Chicago, Illinois
Location Highlights
- Oz Park: Stroll through this magical little gem where Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion are just casually hanging out, waiting for their close-ups. It’s like a Wizard of Oz meet-and-greet, minus the Wicked Witch drama.
- Broadway in Chicago: Did you know Wicked made its debut here before it became the diva of Broadway? That’s right, Chicago knew it was iconic before it was cool.
Why it’s a Wizard of Oz Travel Must
Adding a city nicknamed the “Emerald City” to your Wizard of Oz tour? Absolute no-brainer, darling. And let’s not forget Chicago’s theater scene—it’s practically begging you to dive into Wicked’s roots before you glam up for the movie premiere. Trust me, you’ll feel like Glinda herself by the end of it.
3. Relive Hollywood Magic in Los Angeles, California
Location Highlights
- Ready for a little Hollywood magic? Swing by the former MGM Studios (now Sony Pictures Studios) and stand where the 1939 classic came to life. Movie geek moment, anyone?
- Snap a selfie with Judy Garland’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame—bonus points if you rock some sparkly red shoes (no judgment here). Don’t forget to check out The Munchkins’ Walk of Fame star too! It’s a delightful reminder of the charming characters who brought the Land of Oz to life.
- Check out the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures for a peek at costumes and props from the movie. Yes, they’re as fabulous as you’d hope.
Why it’s a Wizard of Oz Travel Must
L.A.’s cinematic history is serving all the Oz magic—and honestly, where better to experience Wicked on the big screen? Grab your glitter and get ready for a dose of pure, unapologetic fabulousness!
4. Step Into the Land of Oz in Beech Mountain, North Carolina
Location Highlights
- Land of Oz Theme Park: A seasonal gem that lets you live your best Oz fantasy, complete with a real yellow brick road (yes, it’s legit) and live actors bringing the magic to life.
- Autumn at Oz Festival: Think cosplay meets Oz—fans dress up, hang out with the characters, and gleefully twirl down the park like it’s their own personal stage.
Why it’s a Wizard of Oz Travel Must
Few places serve up an experience quite like this one. It’s like stepping straight into the pages of a book—if that book had a fierce, Wicked-style makeover with just the right amount of sass.
5. Marvel at Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers at the Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C.
Location Highlights
- Did you know the National Museum of American History in Washington, DC is home to the original ruby slippers? Yep, those ruby slippers—arguably the most iconic pair of shoes in cinematic history (sorry, Cinderella).
- But wait, there’s more! You can also check out other Oz-tastic treasures like promotional posters and costumes. It’s basically a Dorothy fan’s dream come true.
Why it’s a Wizard of Oz Travel Must
Picture this: Dorothy clicking her heels and chanting, “There’s no place like home.” Now imagine those ruby slippers taking a detour right into DC—where the magic gets fabulously queer. From drag brunches to theater extravaganzas like Wicked, this city is bursting with glitter, pride, and endless possibilities. DC isn’t just a place to visit; it’s where you embrace the magic and mayhem of an unforgettable LGBTQ+ experience.
6. Celebrate the Magic at the Wizard of Oz Museum in Cape Canaveral, Florida
Location Highlights
- Over 2,000 Oz goodies? Yes, please! Think first-edition books, rare collectibles, and enough nostalgia to make your inner Dorothy weep at the Wizard of Oz Museum in Cape Canaveral, Florida.
- Immersive exhibits that let you dive straight into the magic of Oz—because who doesn’t want to relive their childhood dreams?
- Oh, and did we mention the Emerald City? Yep, there’s a picture-perfect replica ready for all your Instagram glory.
Why it’s a Wizard of Oz Travel Must
This modern museum serves up a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation—basically the ideal pregame for Wicked’s cinematic storytelling twist. Trust me, it’s like a cultural warm-up with just the right amount of flair.
7. Honor the Legacy in Grand Rapids, Minnesota
Location Highlights
- Got a thing for Hollywood legends? Swing by the Judy Garland Museum and pay homage to the queen who gave us Dorothy—and, let’s be honest, some serious gay icon energy. Oh, and here’s a fun tidbit about the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minnesota: They’ve had quite the adventure with Dorothy’s iconic ruby slippers! These sparkly shoes were actually stolen from the museum back in 2005 but were miraculously recovered in 2018 during a dramatic sting operation in Minneapolis.
- Feeling extra? Don’t miss their Judy Garland Festival, a fabulous celebration of her life, career, and all the sparkly magic in between.
Why it’s a Wizard of Oz Travel Must
Judy Garland as Dorothy? Truly iconic. Visiting this museum will have you clicking your heels and falling even deeper in love with her legacy. And while you’re at it, pair this stop with your Wicked musings—you’ll start seeing Dorothy in a whole new light.
There’s No Place Like Oz
From the rolling prairies of Kansas to the buzzing streets of Chicago and the glitzy sparkle of Hollywood, the U.S. is basically one giant playground for Wizard of Oz fans. These spots don’t just nod to Baum’s classic—they also bring a little extra spice thanks to Wicked’s twist on the tale.
So why are you still sitting there? Pack your bags, channel your inner Dorothy (or Elphaba, if that’s more your vibe), and strut into the magical world of Oz. Ruby slippers? Optional. Elphaba-approved boots? Highly encouraged. And don’t forget—if you don’t post a selfie on the Yellow Brick Road, did it even happen? Click those heels and go!