No, If you do not wish to ride the chairlift, a free shuttle bus is offered. The chairlift is an added expense that is sold through Beech Mountain Resort.
Chairlift tickets can be purchased on-site the day of the event for $22 per rider.
Please note: Chairlift sales are through a 3rd party, and not directly through Land of Oz. Please review Beech Mountain Resort’s policies and contact them with any questions.
Please click here for the latest updates.
Please click here for the latest updates.
Yes. We will have hand sanitizer stations throughout the park.
The Wizard requests guests limit their visit to 2-3 hours. While we wish guests could visit the park as long as their heart’s desire, our time slots are carefully crafted to ensure each visitor enjoys an optimal experience.
Private Tours are guided and limited to a specific time as other tours will be on property in different places.
Kansas and Emerald City are both handicap accessible.
Since the park was built in the 1970s, certain areas of the Gale Home and Yellow Brick Road include staircases and natural uneven paths.
Special accommodations can be made for those prior to a visit. Please email info@landofoznc.com to make arrangements.
Please note: Land of Oz does not have mobility chairs or scooters available for rent, but you may bring your own. They can be stored on the handicap-accessible shuttle bus.
The park was built with multiple staircases and natural uneven paths. Please be sure strollers can fold quickly to maneuver stairs.
After much thought and careful consideration, we’ve made the difficult decision to pause Autumn at Oz for September 2025.
You tour the park starting with the Fountain Youth, Judy Garland Overlook Memorial Gazebo and make your way into Kansas. There you will see the Gale Farmhouse and Barn. Special this year will be an appearance from Dorothy for a photo opportunity. Then you will be whisked away to the storm cellar to avoid the terrible twister. As you exit you will find yourself in the Land of Oz complete with Yellow Brick Road, character stages, photo opportunities and engaging tour guide. Your tour guide will entertain with knowledge from Wizard of Oz movie trivia, Baum Book information and of course the history of the belove park.
90-minutes is allotted for Private Tours
No. The chairlift ride (round-trip) is $22.00 per rider (+ taxes & fees).
Notice: If you do not meet the qualifications for the chair lift or are not interested in the Scenic Lift Ride, Land of Oz provides free shuttle bus transportation to and from the park.
No flip-flops. The shoes must be fully strapped around the back of the ankle. Open toe shoes are allowed, and yes, you are allowed to wear your ruby slippers!
Note: No lap sitting is allowed, and all children must be 36″ or taller.
Scenic Lift Ride Hour(s):
Fridays 11am-6pm
Saturdays 10am-6pm
Sundays 10am-6pm.
Last ride down is 5:45pm.
Operation Hours valid during the Autumn at Oz Festival.
This year, all chairlift tickets will be purchased on-site at Beech Mountain Resort.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
5501 Josh Birmingham Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28208.
Distance from the airport to Beech Mountain is roughly 2.5 hours.
Other nearby airports include:
TriCities Airport (TRI)
2525 TN-75 Suite 301, Blountville, TN 37617
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)
61 Terminal Dr #1, Fletcher, NC 28732
Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO)
1000 Ted Johnson Pkwy, Greensboro, NC 27409
For any inquiries, please reach out to info@landofoznc.com.
Our priority is thoughtful and strategic planning for the future of Autumn at Oz. As soon as we have updates, we will share them via our official channels.
Despite internet articles, the Land of Oz is not abandoned. Please do not try and visit the park unless it is during one of our scheduled events. Oz is under 24-hour surveillance, and you will be fined if you trespass.
All persons, bags, parcels, clothing and other items may be subject to screening/security checks. We reserve the right not to allow any bag, parcel or other item and to deal with any unattended object, bag or luggage in such way as we consider appropriate. Smoking marijuana or other illegal substances is not permitted at any time. For the comfort of all Guests, Land of Oz, Shuttle Buses and Chairlifts are smoke free. The smoking of tobacco, e-cigarettes or other products that produce a vapor or smoke is allowed only in designated outdoor smoking areas.
PROHIBITED ITEMS:
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Firearms, ammunition, knives or weapons of any kind.
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Objects or toys that appear to be firearms or weapons.
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Marijuana (including marijuana enriched products) or any illegal substance.
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Fireworks or other similarly explosive and/or flammable objects.
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Horns, whistles, megaphones or artificial noise makers.
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Recreational devices such as drones, remote-control toys, skateboard, bicycles etc.
- Pets
PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES:
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This sale of goods or services, or the display of goods or services.
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The distribution of printed or recorded materials of any kind.
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Unauthorized access or entry into backstage areas designated for cast and production.
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Unauthorized events, speeches, or use of any flag, banner or sign for commercial purposes, or as part of a demonstration.
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Engaging in any unsafe act that may impede the operation of Land of Oz or any part thereof.
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Unauthorized solicitations of any kind, whether commercial, religious, educational or otherwise, or conducting any unauthorized commercial activities, including solicitations of money or other contributions or donations.
Land of Oz is only open in September during our annual Autumn at Oz event.
The Land of Oz Gift Shop at 2669 Beech Mountain Parkway is open on select days throughout the year. Please contact Land of Oz or keep an eye on social media postings for days of operation.
We are grateful for the support of our vendors and partners throughout the years. While Autumn at Oz will not take place in 2025, future plans are still being evaluated, and we will share updates as soon as they are available.
While the original Emerald City buildings no longer exist, Land of Oz builds a temporary structure during the annual Autumn at Oz Festival that includes the Oz Shop, Memorabilia Vendors, Food Vendors, and the Magic Moment Stage Show Theater.
Absolutely. We understand and deeply appreciate the economic and cultural impact that Autumn at Oz has on Beech Mountain, Banner Elk, and surrounding areas. Our decision was not made lightly, and part of this planning period will include a thorough evaluation of how to ensure long-term benefits for both our guests and our community.
At this time, we do not rent Land of Oz for private film or photoshoots. If you are media looking to do a story on Land of Oz, please contact landofozpr@gmail.com
At this time, we do not rent Land of Oz for private events, birthdays, or weddings. However, these are options we are planning to add as possibilities in the near future. Keep a lookout on our website and social media platforms for updates.
We encourage fans to follow us on social media and visit our website for the latest updates on any future plans.
This decision specifically impacts a 2025 pause on Autumn at Oz, but The Land of Oz remains an important cultural and historical site. We are committed to preserving its legacy and exploring meaningful ways to engage with our visitors.
The Land of Oz holds a special place in the hearts of so many, and we are always exploring ways to share its history and magic. Any future experiences will be shared as soon as they are available.
We understand how important this event is to so many—our staff, vendors, community, and visitors alike. We will make an official announcement regarding 2026 as soon as possible.
We want to take the time necessary to thoughtfully plan the future of the event, ensuring it remains both sustainable and true to the experience our guests love.
We are actively evaluating future opportunities for Autumn at Oz in 2026. No final decisions have been made at this time, but we will keep our community updated.
Land of Oz was a fully functioning theme park that was in operation from 1970-1980 that provided an immersive theatre experience for guests to live the journey Dorothy took. The park named the Number 1 Tourist Attraction by the Washington Post, and became an instant success after opening seeing over 400,000 guests that first season of operation. While the park had many ups and downs throughout the decade, it would close its doors for good after the 1980 season. In the following years, the Emerald City Theater and Gift Shops along with the Balloon Ride were torn down, and a housing development was to be built on the property.
However, most of the park was saved including the Yellow Brick Road and the Kansas Farm. In 1988, a reunion of original employees sparked interest in those who wanted to revisit the park. High demand to return to Oz led to the park opening up to the public on July 4th, 1991. Over 4,000 people attended that first year, much to the surprise of everyone involved. In 1993, the Autumn at Oz Festival became an annual tradition that is still going strong today. Other events are scheduled throughout the year to cater to popular demand.
The scenic lift is a round-trip chairlift ride from Beech Mountain Resort to the gates of the park.
On good visibility days, you will be able to see for miles the Blue Ridge Mountains on your journey up to the park.
Beech Mountain Resort owns, operates, and exclusively offers a scenic lift ride as your direct transport to the Land of Oz Theme Park.
This year, tickets for the scenic lift ride will be available on-site only at Beech Mountain Resort. Tickets cost $22 per rider and require a signed waiver at the time of payment.
Autumn at Oz is a one-of-a-kind event that combines your typical festival atmosphere with an interactive, immersive theatrical experience. Guests walk onto the Gale’s Kansas farm, visit Aunt Em and Uncle Henry’s Home, escape into the Tornado Storm Cellar, and walk out into the world of Oz. Along the way, you meet all your favorite characters, see them sing and dance, and enjoy the natural scenery of this magical place that sits over one mile high atop Beech Mountain.
There are also joy food & craft vendors, official Land of Oz souvenirs and Wizard of Oz memorabilia for sale, face painting & much more!
At Oz, you don’t just watch it – you live it.
Land of Oz is on Beech Mountain in Western, North Carolina.
In 2024, we are celebrating our 31st anniversary of Autumn at Oz!
Land of Oz Theme Park, built in 1970, has uneven paths, gravel, stairs, and steep ramps, and therefore is not wholly wheelchair or stroller-friendly.
Small “umbrella”-type strollers or backpacks work best for infants and toddlers. Large strollers will be asked to be broken down at check-in.
While motorized scooters are not permitted on the Yellow Brick Road, they are most welcome in Kansas and the Emerald City, both of which are very wheel-friendly.
Certain accommodations can be made for those with mobility issues. Please contact Land of Oz in advance at info@landofoznc.com to arrange for assistance.
Autumn at Oz is a rain or shine event. Please visit here for a weather report. The Mountain can have rapidly changing and unpredictable weather. It is best to be prepared. We suggest dressing in layers with comfortable shoes, and bringing a poncho or small umbrella if rain is in the forecast for the day. BE PREPARED FOR ALL WEATHER.
Chairlift is an added expense that is sold through Beech Mountain Resort. If you do not wish to ride the chairlift, a free shuttle bus is offered.
Chairlift tickets can be purchased before the event or on site the day of the event. Please review the rules and regulations before purchasing.
Please note: Chairlift sales are through a 3rd party, and not directly through Land of Oz. Please review their policies before purchasing or contact them with any questions.
No, tickets must be purchased in advance here.
Tickets are not refundable.
However, if you cannot attend Autumn at Oz after purchasing your ticket, we suggest reselling them through a third party such as Facebook’s “Land of Oz – Beech Mountain, NC Original” page.
The weather on Beech Mountain can be cold and blustery, so please be prepared by dressing in layers and wearing comfortable shoes. We suggest bringing an umbrella – just in case. We’ve had snow, ice, rain and wind as well as calm, warm sunny days for this event in the past. Be prepared for anything as we are a rain or shine event.
All events at Land of Oz run wind, rain, or shine. Be sure to prepare for all types of weather! Please visit here for a weather report. Refunds will not be issued due to rain, or inclement weather.
Please note: Alternative programming may occur due to weather conditions to ensure the safety of our actors, staff, and guests. Performances may be compromised in the event of severe weather that management deems unsuitable for our actors. In this case, the vignette shows may be paused, delayed, or relocated. This will not constitute a refund on tickets.
The Wizard requests guests limit their visit to 2-3 hours. While we wish guests could visit the park as long as their heart’s desire, our time slots are carefully crafted to ensure each visitor enjoys an optimal experience.
Your time slot is your boarding time or your shuttle to the park. We recommend arriving at or no earlier than 30 mins prior to your designated ticket time.
You will not be allowed on the shuttle to Oz prior to your ticketed time slot.
Your journey through Oz is at your own pace. Average time: 2 hours.
The Yellow Brick Road is about 3/4 of a mile. The total tour is about 1.5 miles.
As much as we love everyone’s Toto terriers, Billina hens, and Eureka Kittens, we do not allow pets in the Merry Old Land of Oz
Children 2 years of age and under are admitted for free and do not require a ticket.
Your park admission ticket includes parking, a shuttle to/from the park, meet-and-greets with all of the characters, all the live shows throughout the park, and wccess to our Oz Gift Shop.
While your ticket is access for one walk-through along the Yellow Brick Road, you are able to travel it at your own leisure.
Your ticket is only valid for the date and time of purchase.
The Scenic Lift Ride & Over the Rainbow: Observation Deck are not included with this ticket type. Observation Deck tickets can be purchased online or on-site. Scenic Lift Ride tickets will be available on-site at the Beech Mountain Resort.
VIP tickets are not available for 2024. All tickets will be General Admission.
At this time, discounts are not offered.
At this time, we do not offer group discounts.
For Ticketing issues, please contact customer support.
When you arrive we can scan both your printed tickets and/or your phone.
Please remember to set your phone to full brightness when scanning.
Your ticket is only valid for the date you purchase it for. It is not valid for multiple days of the festival.
Parking is at Beech Mountain Resort at
1007 Beech Mountain Parkway Beech Mountain, NC 28604
Please follow the signs for parking lots catered to Land of Oz.
Event Parking and the shuttle bus to/from Land of Oz are included in your ticket admission. Come and enjoy the many games, activities, and craft vendors before your shuttle time.
A shuttle bus is provided with your ticket price. Shuttle buses are handicap-accessible.
For an elevated experience, we suggest taking Beech Mountain Resort’s chairlift up to the park. This ticket can be purchased on-site at Beech Mountain Resort for $22 per rider. Please review the guidelines for guests to ride the chairlift before purchasing tickets.
No. If you are not able to follow the above regulations for the chair lift or are simply not interested, Land of Oz is providing free shuttle bus transportation to and from the park.
Scenic Lift Ride Hour(s): Fridays 11am-6pm, Saturdays 10am-6pm, & Sundays 10am-6pm. Last ride down is 5:45pm.
Chairlift Rules & Regulations:
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You must sign a waiver before riding.
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Times of lift operation may change and are subject to weather conditions.
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Thunder and lightning and wind may cause the lift to be closed.
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Riders must be in suitable physical condition to be able to load and unload the lift.
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Dress should be appropriate for changes in temperature and weather.
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Proper footwear for walking on the side of a mountain should be worn, flip flops are not allowed.
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You must be at least 36” tall.
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No child carriers (such as strollers), no crutches, walkers, canes, or wheelchairs are allowed.
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Parents are responsible for the safety of their minor children.
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Backpacks must be removed and held on the chair or the passenger’s lap
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No one that appears to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol will have access
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No alcohol or open containers are permitted on the lift
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No dogs or pets are allowed.
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Riders must be able to fit into a rescue harness.
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There are no restraint straps or belts on the chairs.
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Chair lift safety bars must be lowered when riding and raised when boarding/off-boarding the ride.
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Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.
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For those who travel up at 4:00pm those ticket holders are subject to a one-way trip up and free shuttle bus ride down due to last ride down at 5:45pm.
BEECH MOUNTAIN RESORT & LAND OF OZ RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REFUSE SERVICE TO ANYONE THAT DOES NOT FOLLOW, OR WHO DEVIATES FROM THE REGULATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH LIFT USAGE. PLEASE BE ADVISED OF ALL REGULATIONS PRIOR TO PURCHASING A TICKET. THERE ARE NO REFUNDS FOR RAIN. WE OPERATE WHEN IT RAINS, PLEASE CHECK THE WEATHER PRIOR TO YOUR ARRIVAL.
Notice: If you are not able to follow the above regulations for the chair lift, Land of Oz will provide free shuttle bus transportation to and from the park.
Chairlift tickets can be purchased on-site at Beech Mountain Resort for $22 per rider. Please review the rules and regulations before purchasing.
Please note: Chairlift sales are through a 3rd party, and not directly through Land of Oz. Please review their policies and contact them with any questions.
After parking, proceed to the guest check-in at Beech Mountain Resort.
The Resort and Land of Oz Maps are listed below.
You may check-in on or after your ticket time, but not before.
You will receive your festival wristband along with information about how you will be transported to the park.
Wristbands are the only way you can enter the park.
When you arrive we can scan both your printed tickets and/or your phone.
Please remember to set your phone to full brightness when scanning.
Yes. We will have a large fair with food, beverages, shopping, and yes restrooms! (the restrooms are porta-johns unless you are a patron of one of the resort restaurants).
There are limited restrooms along the yellow brick road. Please use the restroom before taking the lift or shuttle, and again if needed when you arrive in Kansas. After the Yellow Brick Road you can use the restroom in the Emerald City Area.
Yes, there will be food and beverage vendors at the check-in area at Beech Mountain Resort and inside the park in Kansas.
Guests can only walk the Yellow Brick Road once.
Please note: the Scarecrow, TinMan, Lion, and Wicked Witch all provide photo opportunities and perform shows at their stations. If you wish to see the show, please ask ushers or listen to the announcements about the next performance time. Glinda, the Munchkins, and Witch’s Guards will have photo-ops only.
If you wish to skip the show or photo-op, you are allowed to. However, you cannot walk backward on the Yellow Brick Road to see a show or character that was missed.
Yes. All shows happen on a continual rotation throughout the day. Each guest experiences the same shows no matter what tour time you purchase.
Every show is on a scheduled rotation, so if you miss it the first time, you will have another opportunity to see it. The shows run approximately every 30 mins.
Signs are posted in Kansas and Emerald City with show times, and announcements will be made regularly. Shows along the Yellow Brick Road are at the Scarecrow, TinMan, and Cowardly Lion stations, as well as the Witch’s castle. They are on a more frequent rotation throughout the day.
Photos with characters are available before and after each performance in select locations. A group photo with the Fab Four is available at the end of each Emerald City Show.
Yes, we encourage everyone to dress up as their favorite characters!
Yes there will be two (2) opportunities during the course of your journey to shop at our official Land of Oz Shops (Kansas Gale Farm and Emerald City).
Also be sure to check out our brick-and-mortar shop located at 2669 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain, NC 28604, where we will have a museum exhibit displaying the history of Land of Oz, free admission!
Yes, with so many people wanting to take photos, we ask that you please be respectful of others, and have your cameras and phones at the ready! Please stand back off the paths while taking photos with characters, and of the scenery to make room for others to skip down the Yellow Brick Road.
Be sure to tag us, hashtag us, and like us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Snapchat.
@LandofOzNC #LandofOzNC #AutumnAtOz
Please email info@landofoznc.com
Please email vendors@landofoznc.com for more information.
No pets are allowed entrance to the park.
Weapons are prohibited.
No alcoholic beverages or smoking are allowed inside the park.
Guests may bring bags into the park. All bags are subject to search upon entry.
Please email landofozcasting@gmail.com
No, private tours are not available for this season. We are focusing on renovations and maintenance throughout the summer.
There are no rides at Land of Oz. The balloon ride was deconstructed in the 1980s, but we are proud to announce we have been able to restore a balloon from the original ride. It will be on display along the Yellow Brick Road, adorned with an original balloon cover that we rotate each year!
