Land of Oz Openings, Beech Mountain

Please note: Autumn at Oz is paused for 2025, but should be back in action for 2026. 

The former Land of Oz theme park that operated during the 1970s atop Beech Mountain reopens occasionally for us to follow the Yellow Brick Road to Emerald City to see the Wizard. Over the years, Autumn at Oz (photos on this page) has grown from a small reunion of former employees to a celebration that draws huge crowds for a nostalgic stroll through the remains of the popular Land of Oz theme park that closed in 1980. It was a living adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s classic novel, “The Wonderful World of Oz,” upon which the 1939 film is based (celebrating its 80th anniversary!). The park atop the mile-high summit reopens only for two special events. Beech Mountain is about 80 miles north of Asheville (see directions below).

Autumn at Oz
This popular event takes place over select weekends in September. Actors perform the classic movie storyline and songs, and pose for photo ops as you move through Oz. Follow the yellow brick road and you'll have encounters and see scenes with the full cast of characters, as you wind your way to the Emerald City. The event usually sells out in advance. Go to their website for details.

Each year, the Autumn at Oz weekends offer many activities, food, drink, and sights to enhance the Land of Oz journey. 

Visit with the Tin Man, Dorothy, Cowardly Lion, Scarecrow, Professor Marvel, Auntie Em, Uncle Henry, Glinda the Good Witch and the Wizard. The Wicked Witch of the West is also on hand with her Winkie guards and flying monkeys.

Dress as your favorite Oz character and enjoy a nostalgic stroll through this unique place in time! The top of Beech Mountain, at 5,506 ft., is an ideal place to gaze out over a rainbow. In fact, the mountain's rocky outcroppings and gnarly, windswept trees inspired the creation of the Land of Oz theme park.

Pro tip: Bring a jacket or dress in layers, with a raincoat or umbrella handy. Temperatures be chilly in early September (about 15 degrees cooler than Asheville) and rain could be in the forecast. 

Tips for Visiting Land of Oz

• Advance ticket holders should proceed to check-in tables at the appropriate time/session.
• The Oz property has uneven paths, ramps, and stairs and therefore is not wheelchair- or stroller-friendly (late afternoon sessions work better for folks needing assistance, and small strollers or backpacks work best for children). The weather on Beech can be chilly and windy, so please be prepared by dressing in layers and wearing comfy shoes. Bring a jacket and an umbrella, just in case.
• Bring extra money (cash) as food treats and treasures are for sale.
• As so many people want to take photos, be respectful of others. Please stand back, off the paths, and make room for others to pass on by. A full cast of characters will be near the end of the yellow brick road for family photos as well.

Driving Directions 
The town of Beech Mountain is about a two-hour, 80-mile drive from Asheville (near Banner Elk) through the mountains with multiple route options. The quickest is via I-40 East to Marion, then US 221 North to Linville & Banner Elk. For Autumn at Oz follow the signs to the parking area at 403 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain. After getting wrist bracelets for entry, you'll catch a shuttle to the top of the mountain, where the Oz journey begins. 

• From the Greensboro/Winston-Salem Area: Take US 421 North to Boone. Turn left onto NC 105. Follow 105 for 15 miles and then turn right onto NC 184. Follow NC 184 to Banner Elk and then turn left onto NC 194/184. NC 184 will veer to the right and become South Beech Mountain Parkway. Follow NC 184/Beech Mountain Parkway into Town.
• From the Charlotte Area: Take I-85 South towards Gastonia. Take Exit 17, and turn left onto US 321 North. Follow US 321 to Boone. In Boone, turn left onto NC 105. Follow 105 for 15 miles and then turn right onto NC 184. Follow NC 184 to Banner Elk and then turn left onto NC 194/184. NC 184 will veer to the right and become South Beech Mountain Parkway. Follow NC 184/Beech Mountain Parkway into Town.

Watch our Video!