The renowned Wizard of Oz Museum in Cape Canaveral is gearing up for a significant relocation to Osceola County, promising an even more magical experience for visitors. The owner, Fred Trust, has acquired a new property and unveiled ambitious plans for a much larger museum, complete with exciting new features.
Fred Trust’s Vision for the Future
Fred Trust, the mastermind behind the Wizard of Oz Museum, is making bold strides to expand and enhance the beloved attraction. In 2022, Trust opened the museum at 7099 N. Atlantic Ave., showcasing an impressive collection of Wizard of Oz memorabilia. Now, he has set his sights on a new location in Osceola County at 4539 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy, right across from Medieval Times and just a short 20-minute drive from Walt Disney World.
A Tribute to Lyman Frank Baum
The timing of the new property purchase holds sentimental value for Trust. He made the deposit on his birthday in October and finalized the acquisition on May 15, which coincides with what would have been the 168th birthday of Lyman Frank Baum, the author of “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.” This thoughtful gesture underscores Trust’s dedication to preserving and celebrating the legacy of Baum’s work.
Exciting New Features and Expansions
The new Wizard of Oz Museum is poised to be twice the size of the current venue, allowing for a more extensive display of artifacts and interactive exhibits. According to Trust, the new location will feature more areas for children’s activities, movie-watching rooms, and an updated mini-golf course themed around the Wizard of Oz.
Emerald City-Themed Design
The design of the new museum, as depicted in the recently released rendering, is inspired by the iconic Emerald City. The building will be adorned in a vibrant green hue, reminiscent of the magical city from the classic tale. This striking design is expected to be a major draw for fans and tourists alike.
From Cape Canaveral to Osceola County: A Smooth Transition
The decision to relocate was driven by the museum’s growing popularity and the need for more space. The current building in Cape Canaveral will be demolished to make way for new condominiums once the new museum is operational. Trust is optimistic about the move, anticipating that it will be completed within 18 months to two years, depending on the progress of construction.
Visitor Information and Accessibility
The Wizard of Oz Museum continues to welcome visitors seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Ticket prices are set at $31.99 for general admission, with discounts available for seniors and military personnel at $29.99. Children aged 2 and under can enter for free, while tickets for older kids are priced at $14.99.
Enhancing the Visitor Experience
The new location in Osceola County will offer an enriched visitor experience with more space for exhibits and interactive displays. The existing mini-golf course on the property will be transformed into a Wizard of Oz-themed adventure, adding an extra layer of fun for families and children.
Conclusion
The relocation of the Wizard of Oz Museum to Osceola County marks an exciting new chapter in its history. With a larger space, enhanced features, and a design inspired by the Emerald City, the museum is set to become an even more enchanting destination for fans of all ages. Fred Trust’s dedication to preserving the magic of Oz ensures that the legacy of Lyman Frank Baum will continue to captivate and inspire visitors for years to come.