Time to follow the yellow brick road to one of our favorite libraries around, Gail Borden Public Library in Elgin. They always have such interesting exhibits and their latest one featuring none other than a whimsical Wizard of Oz exhibit is one not to miss. The travelling exhibit from the Miami Children’s Museum is not only interactive and fun, but also educational. And to top it off it’s totally free! Read on to find out all about the Wizard of Oz exhibit.
Make sure to add this to your summer bucket list. Looking for more ideas to add to your list? Find more fun things to add to your ultimate summer bucket list.
HIGHLIGHTS OF the Wizard of Oz Exhibit:
I Spy Ruby Slippers
As soon as we walked in, we were greeted with the huge Wizard of Oz marquee. What a welcome! Once we walked a bit, we couldn’t help but but notice Judy Garland’s replica ruby red slippers. Look closely enough – it’s signed by Judy Garland. So awesome!
Fun interactive activities
After passing through the Marquee, the kids ran straight for the exhibit. I was surprised at the number of things to do! Plus, they were all educational. We started our journey at Dorothy’s home at the Gale Farm in Kansas where we learned the science behind tornadoes and even saw how it formed. Outside of the home is an area dedicated to farm life where kids can sort fruits and vegetables or grab the chicken eggs.
Then we were off on our journey. But first, learned about optical illusions and rode on the bike like the mean Miss Gulch. This section also had a a castle with a slide. We traveled through Munchkinland, saw trees that moved, and made music. Along the yellow brick road, we met the lion, tin man, and scarecrow each with its own fun activity. And finally the Emerald City where we met the wizard.
Make music in Munchkinland
At Emerald City
Build a Rainbow
At the end of the yellow brick road, the kids worked together to build a rainbow!
Selfie time
Don’t leave without taking photos at the green screen. It was a great way to end the day.
Community Scavenger Hunt
If you have time, grab a community scavenger hunt sheet. At specific locations you’ll find a QR code to scan with a special word. Collect 10 words and you’ll get a Wizard of Oz backpack. Tip: If you want to hang around downtown we found completed about 8 of our 10 locations. Two of the other QR codes can be found at the library.
Final Thoughts of the Wizard of Oz Exhibit
Wow! Gail Borden Library does it again with another fantastic exhibit. Not only is it whimsical and fun, but kids will never know they are learning at the same time. Our kids loved it and you will too! A great way to spend a summer day!
NITTY GRITTY
Website: https://gailborden.info/oz
Address: 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin
While You’re Here
- Get a sweet treat at the on-site cafe, Roll n Donuts. They sell bubble tea, coffee, and donuts.
- Go on an art walk through Downtown Elgin. Love their murals!
- Go to the Festival Park playground or splashpad
- Get a sweet treat at Cook’s Sweet Boutique.
- Get coffee at Meraki Market, Blue Box Cafe, or Viator Coffee.
- Drive a few minutes to Lords Park where they have an updated playground and bisons at the small zoo across the street. We love spending half a day here with a museum, playground, zoo, and fun events.
