The Wizard of Oz Museum opened two years ago in Cape Canaveral and has since captivated visitors with its extensive memorabilia collection. The museum’s owner, Fred Trust, has been actively seeking a new location due to plans for the demolition of the building currently housing the museum. After much searching, Trust secured a new site by purchasing the Viking Motel and a miniature golf course across from Medieval Times.
The new location spans four acres along U.S. Highway 192, significantly upgrading from the current 4,500-square-foot space in a strip mall. Trust emphasized the need for more space to display their extensive collection, including a large Dorothy house designed for children.
The new Wizard of Oz Museum will not only continue to offer its rich collection of Oz memorabilia but will also introduce a miniature golf course and a puppet theatre. The mini-golf course, currently at the new Kissimmee location will be updated with a “Wizard of Oz” theme, providing a unique, immersive experience for visitors of all ages.
The current Brevard location, located at 7099 N. Atlantic Avenue, will remain open for at least another 18 months to two years. The timeline for the move is contingent on construction and building permits for the new Kissimmee location. Trust reassures that the Cape Canaveral museum will remain open until the new location is fully operational.
The Wizard of Oz Museum celebrates the legacy of Lyman Frank Baum’s classic story, which has intrigued fans for generations. The original Oz book was written during a time when the country transitioned from the silver to the gold standard, leading to theories about Dorothy’s silver shoes and the yellow brick road representing gold. Additionally, the measure for gold, “ounce,” is abbreviated as “oz,” and the color of American currency reflects the Emerald City.
While most museum gift shops offer books about their exhibits, the Wizard of Oz Museum provides an immersive experience that brings its story from the pages to the screen. Visitors can expect interactive displays that enhance their understanding and enjoyment of the Oz universe.
Trust officially purchased the new property earlier this year, finalizing the deal on May 15, coinciding with the 168th birthday of “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.” Trust shared that he made a deposit for the land on his birthday in October, adding a personal touch to the museum’s relocation journey.
The museum in Brevard currently operates seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. General ticket prices range from $29.99 (seniors and military) to $31.99, with admission for kids at $14.99 and free entry for children aged 2 and under.
The Wizard of Oz Museum’s move to Kissimmee marks an exciting new chapter, promising expanded exhibits and new attractions for fans and families alike.
Source: Wizardofozflorida.com, Wizard of Oz Florida Facebook
