Judy Garland Museum

Visited on: Tuesday, August 13, 2024
Cost: $12
Judy Garland Museum
Text reads: "Exploring the Unexpected" in bold green letters on a beige background, like the first page of a travel journal.

Featured in

Exploring Minnesota – Walker, Akeley, Judy Garland Museum & the Minnesota Mining Museum (Ep. 0001)

I was excited to visit the Judy Garland Museum. Like so many people from Kansas, we’re used to the jokes about the state and its relationship to the iconic movie. The truth is that we’ve all fallen in love with Judy Garland, and her star continues to shine bright today. She was so much more than just a star. Her charitable works, patriotism, and passion in all that she did make her larger than life.

A person takes a selfie with a large cutout of Judy Garland in vintage attire, showcasing her iconic wide-brimmed hat, at the Garland Museum.

Born Frances Ethel Gumm on June 10, 1922, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, Judy was a multi-talented performer who captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Her career spanned over four decades, and she became renowned for her exceptional singing and acting abilities. Garland began her journey in show business as part of the Gumm Sisters, a vaudeville act with her siblings.

Her big break came when she signed with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) at just 13 years old, which led to her iconic role as Dorothy in the beloved 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz.” Her rendition of “Over the Rainbow” remains one of the most enduring songs of all time.

Despite her professional success, Garland faced significant personal challenges throughout her life. She struggled with mental health issues and substance abuse, partly due to the intense pressures and demands of Hollywood. In fact, it was studio personnel who hooked Judy on weight loss pills and uppers. 

Nonetheless, Garland’s resilience and talent shone through, leading to memorable performances in films like “Meet Me in St. Louis” and “A Star is Born.” Her legacy endures not only through her films but also through her contributions to music and popular culture. Judy Garland remains an enduring symbol of both extraordinary talent and the complexities of fame.

A framed vintage painting of Judy Garland with curled hair in a glamorous pose, wearing a satin dress set against a dark background.
A red board showcases various placards with text about the Garland Sisters and their songs, capturing a glimpse of their legacy. Among the display, a black and white photo of George Jessel adds historical depth. It's like walking through a museum dedicated to Judy Garland's enchanting world.
Two framed displays on a green wall at the Judy Garland Museum: a vintage movie poster for "A Star Is Born" featuring Judy Garland and James Mason, and a photo collage of scenes from the iconic film.
Museum display case containing Judy Garland's iconic makeup kit and a black-and-white photograph. Text reads: "Garland's stage makeup case with supplies and an accompanying photograph of Judy in the mirror by Milton Greene.
Framed black and white photo of the Winkie Spear scene from "The Wizard of Oz" is displayed in a yellow exhibit at the Judy Garland Museum. Below, a plaque vividly describes elements of the scene and highlights the role of the Winkies.
A man takes a selfie in a room with green walls, featuring an antique black carriage and framed illustrations, reminiscent of the enchanting exhibits you'd find at the Judy Garland Museum.
The original antique black carriage from The Wizard of Oz with a white seat sits on a platform in a green-walled room at the Judy Garland Museum, surrounded by red ropes and historical images adorning the walls.
A display case at the Judy Garland Museum showcases vintage magazines and books featuring Hollywood stars, including Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney, celebrated as the "Golden Team" from 1937 to 1943.
Three framed caricatures depicting people in humorous, vintage-style scenes: one in a red room, one on a stage, and one playing a harp.
The display showcases artist Jacques Kapralik's captivating 3D art, celebrating Judy Garland's iconic movies like "Strike Up the Band" and "Life Begins for Andy Hardy," making it a must-see at the Judy Garland Museum.
Vintage poster for Whelan's Wizard of Oz Double Rich Chocolate Malted featuring illustrations and promoting a 20-cent price, with mentions of Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney at Capitol Theatre.
Decorative sign about Judy and Mickey promoting "The Wizard of Oz" at Capitol Theater in New York, drawing 37,000 people with 60 police officers present—a must-see for fans visiting the Judy Garland Museum.
A display about Dorothy's Ruby Slippers from "The Wizard of Oz" at the Judy Garland Museum features a sign warning, "Please Do Not Touch.
A quilt with piano key borders, featuring portraits and handwritten text in the center squares, reminiscent of a museum exhibit. Accented with red and yellow flowers, it evokes the charm of classic Hollywood icons like Judy Garland.
Text with colorful border: Judy Garland recorded 100+ singles and 12+ albums. "Judy at Carnegie Hall" won 5 Grammys in 1962, including Album of the Year. Her work includes best-selling standards. Discover her legacy at the Judy Garland Museum.
A framed portrait of Judy Garland in tramp attire is showcased inside a display case at the Garland Museum, accompanied by a setlist, a small photo, and descriptive plaques.
A display sign at the Judy Garland Museum explains that Judy's "Tramp" costume was created for the 1948 film "Easter Parade" and became a signature routine in her performances during the 1950s.
Judy Garland as Dorthy in a gingham dress crouches beside Toto.
Display case featuring a replica pair of Ruby Slippers alongside a newspaper article titled "Ruby Slippers Stolen," reminiscent of Judy Garland's iconic role. This enchanting exhibit is a highlight at the Judy Garland Museum, capturing the magic and mystery surrounding the beloved star.
Portrait of a woman in a red and white striped dress, posed against a yellow background, with a frame visible, reminiscent of classic Hollywood elegance. This style echoes the timeless charm celebrated in places like the Judy Garland Museum.
A black and white portrait of Judy Garland in a long coat, leaning on a ladder and staring thoughtfully into the distance. The photo is framed and signed at the bottom, reminiscent of classic pieces found in the Judy Garland Museum.
Text on card about a photograph by Richard Avedon of Judy Garland in 1951, highlighting her enchanting presence. A later photo with Avedon from 1956 captures her enduring allure. This piece, suitable for display at the Judy Garland Museum, is framed by a multicolored geometric border on a red background.
One of Dorthy's outfits and a photo of Judy Garland wearing the outfit.
At the Judy Garland Museum, a vibrant plaque showcases production facts of "The Wizard of Oz," highlighting set creation and directorial roles, all framed by a colorful border.
A display at the Judy Garland Museum features a text excerpt about the iconic song "Over the Rainbow," adorned with colorful border art.

The museum highlights the astronomical amount of work that Judy did supporting US troops and disadvantaged children.  

A museum wall display features four framed black-and-white photos with captions and a larger text panel titled "Judy Garland’s Public Service.
In a scene reminiscent of old Hollywood charm, a group of people in military uniforms line up in the mess hall, receiving food from servers across a long table. It's as if they're extras on the set of a Judy Garland film, each tray handed out with the precision of choreography.
At the Judy Garland Museum, a framed photo collage on display features historical images and descriptive text mounted elegantly on a wall, celebrating the iconic legacy of Judy Garland.
Top frame: Judy Garland speaking to a large crowd. Bottom frame: Two men in military uniforms and a woman, much like at the Judy Garland Museum, looking intently at a document.
A framed black and white photo of a smiling group of people in a crowd waving papers, with visible reflections on the glass, reminiscent of a scene at a museum exhibit celebrating Judy Garland.
A child sits on a medical examination table with leg braces, smiling. Nearby, a nurse and Judy Garland in a polka-dot dress reminiscent of Judy Garland's style stand admiring the child's resilient spirit, creating a scene worthy of display at the Judy Garland Museum.
Two black and white photos in sleek black frames adorn the wall of the Judy Garland Museum. Below, a text plaque shares insights into an inspiring performance and highlights a committed personal interest in supporting disabled children.
Black and white portrait of a young Judy Garland with styled hair, resting her chin on her hand, with “Judy Garland” elegantly inscribed above.
Framed black and white photos of people from the 1930s and 1940s are displayed on a wall at the Judy Garland Museum. Text panels describe the period and context, capturing an era that shaped legends like Judy Garland.
Framed photos and a plaque on a museum wall display President John F. Kennedy and others in official settings.
A framed photo of Judy Farland holding baby Liza Minelli, accompanied by letters and a drawing. Below, a plaque lists birth dates of Liza Minnelli, Lorna Luft, and Joseph Luft—a touching tribute at the Judy Garland Museum.
A close-up of Judy Garland with a tear-streaked face, one hand touching their forehead, set against a dark background reminiscent of the emotional depth often captured in Judy Garland's performances.
A 1922-themed poster at the Judy Garland Museum showcases slang, prices, events, and notable figures. It includes sections on sports, news, population, cinema, and radio, all wrapped in a vintage design that transports you to Judy Garland's era.
A black and white photo of a seated couple on a wall, surrounded by colorful printed text and decorative borders, evokes the nostalgia of classic Hollywood. It's like a scene you'd find at the Judy Garland Museum, where history and art come alive in vibrant harmony.
Framed black and white photo of a young Judy Garland sitting on the ground outdoors, with trees in the background, reminiscent of scenes from the Judy Garland Museum.
Text on a decorative paper details a personal memory from Baby Gumm in 1924, describing her father's bedtime singing ritual with songs "Danny Boy" and "Nobody Knows the Trouble I've Seen.
A vintage living room with floral wallpaper, wooden flooring, a piano, and antique furniture. Stairs are visible on the right.
A vintage gramophone sits gracefully on a wooden table, surrounded by floral wallpaper, reminiscent of the charm found at the Judy Garland Museum. A window in the background casts soft light over this nostalgic scene.
Vintage wooden staircase with a wooden post featuring an old two-button light switch. Floral wallpaper and a rocking chair are visible in the background.
A vintage piano with sheet music on a wooden bench, next to a wooden phonograph cabinet and a fringed lamp, in a room with floral wallpaper and wooden flooring.
Display board with text about the Munchkins from "The Wizard of Oz" next to a framed photo montage and a document on the wall.
Display case filled with "Wizard of Oz" memorabilia, including figurines, books, and framed images.
Display case with Wizard of Oz memorabilia, including dolls, figurines, a clock, and books.
A display of witch-themed collectibles, including figurines, a broomstick, a green-faced doll, and decorative items on a shelf.
Wizard of Oz-themed collection with a puzzle, figurines, and a decorative snow globe featuring characters from the story.
A display cabinet containing various "The Wizard of Oz" memorabilia, including figurines, photos, and collectible items.
Display cabinet with Oz-themed collectibles, including figurines, mugs, and board games. Items are arranged on multiple shelves with a glass front.
Framed drawing of a terrier with a sign below detailing the dog’s role in "The Wizard of Oz," near a quilt and window.
A person poses next to the evil witch from the Wizard of Oz with green skin and a black hat.
Dive Into More of Shea's Related Content
From: Minnesota
Filed Under: Discovered Treasures, Museum Maniac
Journal Entry Tags:
Historic BuildingsWizard of Oz
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases

Copyright @ 2025 Shea Oliver. All Rights Reserved

Be Excellent to Each Other