The Universal Theme Parks Exhibition is now open. Discover the technology and storytelling behind your favorite rides with 100+ artifacts and interactives.

Fans of high-octane thrills and cinematic world-building have a new reason to visit the City of Brotherly Love. Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition, a groundbreaking behind-the-scenes look at the magic behind the movies, officially makes its world premiere at The Franklin Institute on February 14, 2026.

In an unprecedented partnership with Comcast NBCUniversal, the 18,000-square-foot exhibit offers an “inside the vault” look at the artistry and engineering that power some of the world’s most famous attractions. From the toothy legacy of Jaws to the colorful chaos of Illumination’s Minions, the exhibition spans eight galleries and features over 100 authentic artifacts, costumes, and props.

Universal Theme Parks Exhibition: Stepping Into the Creative Process

Unlike a traditional museum display, this experience is designed to be as immersive as the parks themselves. Guests begin their journey with a multimedia “tram” experience—a nod to the World-Famous Studio Tour—before diving into the technical wizardry of modern hits.

“Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition is a trailblazing concept that pulls back the curtain on an industry that entertains and thrills millions, revealing the science, innovation, and creativity in some of the most epic experiences in themed entertainment,” said Larry Dubinski, president and CEO, The Franklin Institute. “The exhibition brings beloved moments to life in new and exciting ways, delivering a truly unique and fun experience that we are proud to present as a world premiere in 2026.”

Interactive Galleries and Iconic Franchises

The exhibition features a massive footprint in the Nicholas and Athena Karabots Pavilion, highlighting fan-favorite worlds including:

• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• Jurassic World
• SUPER NINTENDO WORLD
• DreamWorks Animation’s How to Train Your Dragon
• Universal Monsters

Visitors won’t just observe; they will participate. Interactive stations allow guests to program an animated figure, experiment with projection mapping, and even “call” a live show. For the social media savvy, photo ops include sitting inside a ride vehicle or standing alongside a Super Mario ? Block.

“Through our partnership with The Franklin Institute, Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition celebrates the remarkable innovation of Universal Destinations & Experiences with Philadelphia in an inspiring way,” said Dalila Wilson-Scott, EVP and chief impact & inclusion officer, Comcast.

Universal Theme Parks Exhibition: A Legacy of Innovation

The Universal Theme Parks Exhibition galleries are themed to guide visitors through the evolution of themed entertainment. Sections like “Scares & Horror” explore the design behind Universal’s legendary creature features, while “Technology & Innovation” breaks down the technical expertise required to balance safety with the “rush of adrenaline” guests crave.

Universal Theme Parks Exhibition: Gallery Themes

• An Unconventional Spirit showcases the innovative spirit that has fueled Universal’s century-long effort to push the boundaries of immersive entertainment.
• Storytelling & Wonder highlights Universal’s distinctive approach to experiential world-building, tracing the journey from early concepts and sketches to fully realized environments.
• Technology & Innovation focuses on the creative and technical expertise behind Universal’s most groundbreaking experiences.
• Thrills & The Rush of Adrenaline examines how the thrills of the big screen come to life, balancing safety and adrenaline to create jaw-dropping moments.
• Scares & Horror delves into Universal’s legacy of horror to understand how design and storytelling combine to create close-up encounters.
• Big, Bold & Entertaining celebrates live entertainment as a cornerstone of Universal’s legacy, captivating audiences with grand emotion, energy, and excitement.
• Authentic & Immersive highlights how immersive worlds extend beyond attractions, with a focus on food, merchandise, and interactive play to complete the overall experience.
• The Creative in You looks toward the future, envisioning the imagination and potential of the next generation of creators.

The Themed Entertainment Industry

“The themed entertainment industry is innovative and future-ready, and has never been explored this way before,” said Abby Bysshe, chief experience and strategy officer, The Franklin Institute. “We curated this exhibition so that every object tells a story, and every interactive introduces a creative concept, all within a fun, hands-on environment. Guests aren’t just observing how theme parks are made—they are stepping into the process. Working with talented partners like MDSX and Universal Destinations & Experiences has been incredible, and we are extremely proud of the experience that unfolds within this exhibition.”

Page Thompson, president – new Ventures, Universal Destinations & Experiences, added:

Universal Destinations & Experiences is driven by a commitment to innovation, creativity and storytelling. We are excited to partner with The Franklin Institute on this new exhibition offering a behind-the-scenes look at how our teams bring awe-inspiring, immersive experiences to life for our guests.

Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition runs at The Franklin Institute through September 7, 2026, before embarking on a North American tour. Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition is open daily from 9:30 am–5:00 pm, with evening hours Thursday – Saturday. Daytime Tickets include admission to The Franklin Institute: Adult: $47; Teen (age 13-17): $43; Child (age 3-12): $41. Evening Tickets are $25 for all ages; exhibit admission only. Tickets are timed and dated, and advance ticket purchase is strongly recommended at www.fi.edu or by calling 215.448.1200.

For more theme park-related news and information, visit MSM News.

Expertise. Ease. Value.

Ready for your bucket list trip? Our trusted partner, MEI-Travel, will handle the planning so you can focus on the memories. They offer free vacation planning services and have nearly 20 years of experience creating memorable vacations. 

Contact for a fee-free, no-obligation quote today.