When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Oz Park
Why Oz Park is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Oz Park, located on Chicago’s Near North Side, is a cherished 13.32-acre green space celebrated for its unique homage to L. Frank Baum’s beloved "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz." Named in 1976 to honor Baum, who lived nearby, this park offers an inviting atmosphere ideal for gatherings with friends and family. Its sprawling grounds include a vibrant playground known as Dorothy’s Playlot, perfect for children to enjoy imaginative play surrounded by whimsical statues of iconic characters such as Dorothy and Toto, The Tin Man, The Scarecrow, and The Cowardly Lion. Artful sculptures by John Kearney add a creative touch that enriches visitors’ experiences. Oz Park caters to both leisurely and active pursuits, featuring tennis courts, a baseball field, and open areas for soccer or picnicking. The serene Emerald Garden offers a contemplative space amid the lively activity, fostering relaxation and connection. The park's community-built playground and well-kept facilities foster a welcoming vibe that encourages socializing and recreation. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful bench to read or a scenic spot for a playful outing, Oz Park provides a magical setting that brings people together in celebration of nature, art, and literature.
Here's what people think of Oz Park
As of recent, Oz Park holds a 4.7-star rating based on 2118 reviews.
Visitors overwhelmingly praise Oz Park for its beautifully maintained grounds and the enchanting presence of Oz-themed sculptures that capture the spirit of the classic tales. Positive reviews highlight the park’s family-friendly environment, noting the extensive playground equipment and ample space for sports that make it a great destination for children and adults alike. Many appreciate the park's creative design elements, including the well-loved statues of Wizard of Oz characters. Guests also value the park for its community feel and accessibility, enjoying peaceful moments in the Emerald Garden or the versatility of its open fields. On the other hand, some visitors mention minor inconveniences such as limited parking or wishing for additional statues representing other Oz story elements like the flying monkeys. A few have noted occasional difficulty with navigating public transport to reach the park but still found the experience rewarding. Overall, the reviews reflect a strong affection for Oz Park as a unique urban oasis combining cultural homage, recreational facilities, and natural beauty, making it a highly recommended spot for neighborhood meetups and family outings.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Robbie Cannings
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!!
Dawn Cose-LaFountain
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
T A
Second visit here since being a mom. First was summer of 2023 with kid being 6 month old and we had relaxed on our mat. Now with them at 2.5 of age, we had so much more fun. We played in the playground, ran and did hide and seek and practiced balancing our bike. We will go there often now that kid is grown up enough to enjoy the variety.
Keith M
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.
Cami Romero
Asked a friend to point me in the direction for a good date spot and wow. Bring a blanket. Pack the charcuterie board. Get set get inspired and walk the corners to find all the statues. I took a client on a grounding meditative session here because the garden in the park is a breath and more of life. The date I took here I crushed him at cards. Will keep coming back to this park for all my outdoor needs in the hood. Maybe you’ll find me there or maybe I take you next time. A go to.
How to reach Oz Park
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Why Oz Park may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Oz Park with your friends?
Oz Park is an outstanding place to gather with friends or family because it effortlessly combines fun, relaxation, and a touch of whimsy in a welcoming outdoor environment. With a stellar rating of 4.7 from over 2,100 reviews, it’s clear that visitors consistently enjoy their time here. Whether you want a vibrant playground for children, open green spaces for casual hangouts, or engaging themed experiences, Oz Park delivers. The park’s unique nod to the magical world of The Wizard of Oz adds a charismatic charm that makes every meetup feel special, whether it's a casual picnic or a larger group outing. The presence of iconic statues of Dorothy, Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion not only provides interesting photo opportunities but also sparks conversations and a sense of nostalgia. For groups looking for a mixture of recreation and creativity, Oz Park offers a diverse range of options including playgrounds, sports courts, gardens, and organized events. This variety ensures that every group member, regardless of age, will find something enjoyable, making Oz Park an ideal rallying point for memorable social gatherings.
What activities are available at Oz Park for group meetups?
Oz Park hosts an abundance of activities that cater to groups looking to spend quality time together. For families with young children, the standout is Dorothy’s Playlot, a colorful, Wizard of Oz-themed playground. This area is thoughtfully designed to engage kids with a wooden castle maze, swings, slides, climbing structures, and toddler-friendly equipment such as a wooden train and rocking animals. Kids can explore safely within the enclosed play area allowing adults to relax nearby. Adjacent to the playlot, groups can explore the Emerald Garden, a serene spot adorned with beautiful flowers providing a peaceful environment ideal for gatherings or nature appreciation. For sports enthusiasts, the park has tennis courts, ball fields, and basketball courts where friends can organize friendly matches or casual games. Open green spaces throughout the park are perfect for picnics, frisbee, or lounging with a good book or music, offering flexible options for varying group sizes. Additionally, Oz Park organizes programs such as soccer, t-ball, and day camps that can be enjoyed by children and families throughout the year. These facilities and programs create a dynamic environment where friends and families can engage in active or leisurely gatherings with something for everyone.
Why is Oz Park perfect for hosting a group meetup?
Oz Park is perfectly suited for group meetups due to its combination of spaciousness, variety, and community spirit. Spanning 14.4 acres, the park provides ample space for groups to spread out, whether for a relaxed picnic or more organized activities. The mixture of playgrounds, sports facilities, gardens, and walkways means that group members with different interests can easily find something to enjoy simultaneously without feeling cramped or excluded. The park’s social-friendly amenities including picnic tables and open lawns foster a welcoming atmosphere where conversation and interaction flow naturally. A key highlight that sets Oz Park apart is its thematic homage to The Wizard of Oz, which creates a unique and memorable backdrop to any gathering. This helps foster a shared experience and a sense of fun that’s ideal for bonding with friends or family. The park’s location within Chicago’s vibrant Lincoln Park neighborhood also means easy accessibility for many visitors. Year-round programs and events offer additional options for groups looking for a planned activity to participate in together. The overall ambiance of Oz Park blends charm, functionality, and inclusivity, making it an exceptional meeting place for groups.
What makes Dorothy’s Playlot special for families and children?
Dorothy’s Playlot is one of the crown jewels of Oz Park, specifically designed to ignite children’s imaginations and provide a safe and engaging play area. The playground’s design draws inspiration from The Wizard of Oz, giving kids a sense of entering a magical world. Colorful wooden structures like a castle maze invite exploration, while swings, slides, and climbing equipment encourage physical activity and play. For very young children, the playlot includes smaller, toddler-friendly features such as a wooden train and rocking animals, making it suitable across a wide age range. Named after Dorothy Melamerson, a local schoolteacher who helped improve the community, the playlot carries a meaningful legacy of care and commitment to local families. This focus on safety, creativity, and fun makes it an ideal spot for parents to bring their children while connecting with other families. The enclosed nature of the playlot eases parental supervision, and its whimsical setting ensures children are delightfully entertained while adults enjoy relaxed social time nearby.
How can groups enjoy the themed statues and gardens at Oz Park?
The themed statues and gardens at Oz Park offer a charming and picturesque way for groups to unwind and create lasting memories together. Scattered across the park, life-sized sculptures of Dorothy and Toto, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow, and the Cowardly Lion provide fantastic photo opportunities which are perfect for friends or families wanting to commemorate their visit. These statues add a playful storytelling element to the park that both adults and children appreciate. Surrounding the statues, the Emerald Garden serves as a beautifully landscaped space filled with vibrant flowers and greenery that invites leisurely strolls or quiet moments of reflection. This garden is great for group walk-and-talks or as a serene backdrop for small celebrations or meetups. Because the statues and garden are outdoors and spread throughout the park, visitors naturally explore the area, enhancing the group experience by encouraging movement and shared discovery. This combination of art, nature, and thematic storybook elements significantly enriches the social environment at Oz Park, making it more than just a typical urban park.
What organized programs are offered at Oz Park that can enhance a group outing?
Oz Park offers a range of year-round organized programs that can add a structured and engaging dimension to any group outing. These include sports activities like soccer, t-ball, and day camps especially designed for children, which can be great for larger family groups or community gatherings focused on active participation. For adults or mixed-age groups, the park offers opportunities to engage in tennis, basketball, or informal sports matches on their well-maintained courts and fields. The park district’s event schedule sometimes includes thematic and seasonal programs that keep the park lively and inviting. Groups can also participate in or organize scavenger hunts and interactive experiences based on The Wizard of Oz theme, further tying into the park’s unique identity and encouraging teamwork and friendly competition. The availability of these programs means that meetups can range from casual hangouts to more organized experiences, providing flexibility in planning and guaranteeing a good time for all involved.
How does the location and community around Oz Park enhance the meetup experience?
Situated in Chicago’s vibrant Lincoln Park neighborhood, Oz Park benefits from an ideal location that enhances the meetup experience through accessibility and a dynamic community vibe. The neighborhood is known for its charming streets, boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering great options to extend gatherings beyond the park itself. Friends or family can easily plan outdoor fun at the park followed by dining at local eateries or a coffee break nearby, creating a full-day outing. The park’s proximity to public transportation and ample parking makes it convenient for groups coming from different parts of the city. Additionally, the surrounding community’s support for urban renewal and preservation has helped Oz Park thrive as a green oasis in the city, ensuring it remains a clean, safe, and welcoming environment. The sense of community pride and care is reflected in the park’s cleanliness, upkeep, and the varied amenities it offers. This neighborhood connection invites visitors to feel at home and engaged, enriching the overall social experience of meetups at Oz Park.
What makes Oz Park a unique and memorable venue for photo opportunities?
Oz Park stands out as a unique and memorable venue for capturing photos due to its whimsical, themed elements that transport visitors into the magical world of The Wizard of Oz. The statues of iconic characters like Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow, and the Cowardly Lion are beautifully sculpted with attention to detail, providing stunning and conversation-starting subjects for photos. These sculptures glimmer in the sunlight or provide striking contrasts in different seasons, making every picture distinct and lively. The Emerald Garden’s colorful flowers and lush greenery offer a scenic backdrop, perfect for portrait shots or candid group photos during a gathering. Additionally, the playground’s fairy-tale design adds another creative visual layer for capturing family moments or playful interactions among children. All these features combined turn an ordinary park visit into a photo adventure where every snapshot carries a story, making Oz Park a go-to spot for groups wanting to document their special day with friends or family in a meaningful setting.
How accessible and pet-friendly is Oz Park for group visitors?
Oz Park is highly accessible and welcoming for diverse groups, including those with pets. The park’s location in a well-connected neighborhood ensures easy access via public transport and car, with nearby parking facilitating group arrivals and departures without hassle. Its paved paths and open design make it suitable for visitors with mobility challenges or families with strollers, allowing everyone to move around comfortably and enjoy the surroundings. Moreover, Oz Park is notably pet-friendly, welcoming dogs on leashes throughout its grounds. This makes it an attractive spot for groups that want to bring their furry friends along, enhancing the outing for pet owners. The combination of accessibility and pet-friendliness demonstrates the park’s commitment to inclusivity and community engagement. This supportive environment enables a wide range of groups—from families and sports teams to dog owners—to enjoy social time together seamlessly, further cementing Oz Park’s reputation as a premier gathering place in Chicago.