Last Updated on May 7, 2026 by Fadra Nally
There is so much unexpected quirkiness in Kansas but none got me more excited than the prospect of visiting The Oz Museum in Wamego, Kansas. Let me set the stage.
I was spending a week or so in Wichita for a travel conference and was invited to spend an additional few days exploring North Central Kansas. We had a rough and PACKED agenda but the #1 attraction that appealed to me was a museum celebrating all things Oz in the little town of Wamego.
Why was I so excited? I’m from Generation X where one of our annual highlights was waiting for the Wizard of Oz to be featured as the Sunday Night Movie of the Week. Even as an adult, is there anything more magical than the moment that Dorothy steps from her fallen house into the land of Oz and into a world of brilliant color?
Clearly, I’m a fan. Now let me explain why I totally think the Oz Museum is worth a stop.
Table of Contents
What Is the Oz Museum in Wamego, Kansas?
The Oz Museum is more than just a tribute to 1939 movie that we all know and love. It’s a love letter to the world of L. Frank Baum, an American author of children’s fantasy books. (Did you know there are fourteen Oz books in all?)
Inside, you’ll find a little history, a lot of movie memorabilia, and fun Oz artifacts you never knew existed!
And just in case you didn’t catch the connection, Dorothy hails from Kansas. We’re never given a specific town so why not Wamego?
Best of all, Wamego is right off of I-70 so if Kansas is a travel thoroughfare and not necessarily a destination, it’s an easy stop for an hour or two (or three!).
First Impressions of Wamego and the Oz Museum
When I tell you that the trip I was on was breakneck, believe me. We rolled into town and parked right in front of the impossible-to-miss Oz Museum building. If you were on the fence about visiting, the exterior alone just might convince you.
My only other exposure to downtown Wamego was right outside the museum where we spied a few painted Toto statues (scattered all throughout the town) and an actual yellow brick road, just across the street.
This is a town that embraces its identity!
Inside the museum, I expected a fun little walkthrough. Instead it’s a bigger-on-the-inside kind of experience that’s very well-themed.
What You’ll See Inside the Oz Museum
You’ll enter through the gift shop. DON’T get distracted. There will be time for that at the end!
Wizard of Oz Memorabilia and Collectibles
I expected plenty of movie memorabilia and I was not disappointed. Here were some of my favorites:
- Dorothy’s ruby slippers – not the actual slippers (those are in the Smithsonian Museum of American History in Washington, DC) but a recreation designed to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the making of the movie
- The death certificate for the Wicked Witch of the East – signed by original Munchkin Coroner (along with his hat!)
- The miniature twister model – used during the tornado scene (yes, it was a miniature!)
More Than Just the 1939 Film
Most of us think of The Wizard of Oz as the iconic Judy Garland movie but there’s more to experience at The Oz Museum than the movie!
You can see a little of the history of The Wizard of Oz author L. Frank Baum, including some of the original books and even a yellow brick from Baum’s military grade school. It’s cool to see the pieces that eventually shaped the world of Oz.
You’ll also see movie memorabilia for films in the same universe. Stories like The Wiz but also lesser known films like Return to Oz and even The Muppets’ Wizard of Oz.
The Most Fun or Unexpected Parts
If you like collectibles, you’ll get a glimpse at a collection of toys and related items to Oz. As someone who still has a personal collection of McDonald’s Wizard of Oz dolls on my desk, I was delighted by the museum’s collection of Oz toys and collectibles, even if mine may not quite meet museum standards.
I also loved the interactive photo opps where you could take a seat with the munchkins, peer behind the curtain to see the Great and Powerful Wizard, or hop aboard the Wizard’s hot air balloon before takeoff.
Also, did you know that the actor who played the Wizard (character actor Frank Morgan) also played Professor Marvel, a guard at the Emerald City, a soldier, and more!
Is the Oz Museum Worth Visiting?
You already know my answer. YES! Then again, I’m a huge Wizard of Oz fan. You’ll appreciate the museum most if you’re already familiar with The Wizard of Oz, but even casual fans will find plenty to enjoy.
Who Will Love It
- Wizard of Oz fans (like me!)
- Families with kids
- Road trippers
- Nostalgic adults (also me!)
- Lovers of quirky Americana and small-town travel (definitely me!)
Who Might Want to Temper Expectations
This is definitely not an all day stop but it is a great morning or afternoon stop for families and those nostalgic adults.
If you have children that aren’t as familiar with the story, they’ll still enjoy some of the wax figure-type displays of some of the movie elements as well as the participatory photo opportunities.
My Honest Take
I posted a short video about my trip to the Oz Museum and was surprised by the number of people that lived (either now or at some point) near Wamego and were lamenting never having gone.
For a small town museum, it’s so much more than I was expecting!
It’s a good stop off if you’re on a road trip. But it’s also a great stop to include as part of a larger Quirky Kansas itinerary (there’s a lot of fun stuff in Kansas!).
How Long Does It Take to Visit the Oz Museum?
On our scheduled itinerary, they allowed us 30 minutes to run through the museum. We pretty quickly said NO WAY, JOSE. We need more time here! We rushed and spent an hour so if you want to do it justice, I’d allow a minimum of two hours.
You’ll also want to spend 30 minutes just in the gift shop! And of course, allow some extra to walk around town and see the Toto statues and to walk to Yellow Brick Road just across the street.
What Else to Do in Wamego, Kansas
Since we were exploring much of North Central Kansas, we had a whirlwind tour. Here are some recommendations..
In Wamego:
- Columbian Theatre
- Toto statues
- Schonhoff Dutch Mill
- Yellow Brick Road / downtown stroll
Nearby:
- Mount Mitchell Heritage Prairie Park
- Beecher Bible & Rifle Church
- Manhattan / Junction City if you want a broader day trip angle
Final Thoughts on Visiting the Oz Museum in Wamego, Kansas
If you love The Wizard of Oz, you’ll appreciate this thoughtful celebration of both the story and the iconic 1939 film. And if you’re traveling with family, it’s a fun way to introduce younger kids to a classic world of imagination.
If you’re road tripping through Kansas, the location makes it an easy detour. But honestly? I’d make the trip even if I weren’t already passing through.
You may still be in Kansas, but once you step inside the museum, it feels like you just might be somewhere over the rainbow.
FAQ About the Oz Museum in Wamego, Kansas
Where is the Oz Museum located?
The Oz Museum is located at 511 Lincoln Avenue in Wamego, Kansas, just a short drive off I-70. That makes it an easy stop if you’re road tripping across Kansas.
How much does it cost to visit the Oz Museum?
At the time of writing, tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for children ages 3–12, and free for kids 2 and under. Military and student discounts may also be available, but it’s always smart to check current pricing before your visit.
How long does it take to tour the Oz Museum?
Plan for at least an hour, though 1 to 2 hours is ideal if you want time to enjoy the exhibits, take photos, and browse the gift shop.
Is the Oz Museum good for kids?
Yes, especially for kids who already know the story of The Wizard of Oz. Even younger visitors will likely enjoy the colorful displays, familiar characters, and fun photo opportunities throughout the museum.
What else is there to do in Wamego, Kansas?
While you’re in Wamego, you can also explore the Columbian Theatre, spot the Toto statues around town, and visit the Schonhoff Dutch Mill. If you have extra time, nearby attractions include Mount Mitchell Heritage Prairie Park and the historic Beecher Bible and Rifle Church.
Is the Oz Museum worth visiting?
Absolutely. If you love quirky attractions, movie nostalgia, or small-town travel, the Oz Museum is a fun and memorable stop that’s well worth adding to a Kansas itinerary.
Where to Watch The Wizard of Oz
If it’s been a while since you’ve seen The Wizard of Oz or perhaps your kids have NEVER seen it (shocked face), you don’t have to wait for the yearly TV screening anymore. Here is where you can stream it right now!
