Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition Delivers Thrills, Tech & Movie Magic in Philadelphia 2026

February 14 – September 7, 2026

Philadelphia is set for a spectacular arrival of cinematic thrills and cutting-edge theme park technology with the world premiere of Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition at The Franklin Institute in early 2026. This groundbreaking, immersive exhibition offers visitors an unprecedented inside look at the storytelling, innovation, and artistry behind Universal Destinations & Experiences’ world-famous theme parks. Spanning over 18,000 square feet, the exhibition features eight themed galleries, 25 interactive experiences, and more than 100 original artifacts from iconic attractions including Jurassic World, DreamWorks Animation’s How to Train Your Dragon, Universal Monsters, and many more. From animatronics and robotics to ride design, costuming, and special effects, this landmark exhibit showcases the magic of creation behind some of the world’s most beloved and technologically advanced theme parks.

Event Dates and Location

Opening Date: February 14, 2026
Closing Date: Approximately September 7, 2026
Location: The Franklin Institute
Address: 222 North 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103

The Franklin Institute, a premier science museum and cultural center in downtown Philadelphia, serves as the perfect venue for this exhibition, offering visitors a welcoming and accessible space filled with interactive exhibits and educational experiences.

For ease of travel, here is a Google Maps link to The Franklin Institute:
Google Map Directions to The Franklin Institute.

What to Expect at the Exhibition?

Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition welcomes guests into the imaginative world of Universal’s theme park creators, revealing the blend of creativity and technology that brings stories to life. Visitors will be immersed in multiple engaging features, including:

Themed Galleries: Explore eight distinct areas ranging from Jurassic World adventures to the chilling Universal Monsters, each filled with behind-the-scenes insights and rare artifacts.
Interactive Experiences: Hands-on opportunities to build coasters, design monster masks, program animated figures, and experiment with effects technology—the tools of the trade that craft theme park magic.
Original Artifacts: View over 100 pieces including ride vehicles, props, costumes, and themed environments, providing tangible connections to your favorite Universal attractions.
Storytelling & Innovation: Learn about the creative process of storyboard artists, visual effects teams, animators, and prop masters who shape the guest experience.
Photo Opportunities: Snap pictures with iconic characters and exhibit setups including Toothless from How to Train Your Dragon, Po from Kung Fu Panda, the Tigress, and Gingy from Shrek’s live shows.

The exhibition also highlights Universal’s latest ventures, such as Universal Epic Universe at Orlando Resort, the most technologically advanced theme park opening in decades, giving visitors a glimpse into the future of immersive entertainment.

Ticket Information

Tickets for Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition will be available for purchase starting late 2025 with various options designed to suit visitors of all ages and interests:

General Admission Tickets: Grant full day access to the exhibition.
Timed Entry Tickets: Recommended to avoid wait times, particularly on weekends and holidays.
Group and Family Packages: Available for visitors looking to experience the exhibition together.
Season Pass Options: For those who want multiple visits or combined access with other Franklin Institute exhibits.
Presale Access: Early sign-ups for presale tickets are available and highly recommended due to expected high demand.

Keep up to date and purchase tickets at The Franklin Institute’s official website:
The Franklin Institute Tickets.

Why Visit Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition?

Unveil the Magic Behind the Scenes: Discover the artistic craftsmanship and technological wizardry that goes beyond the thrills to create immersive theme park worlds.
Engaging for All Ages: Children, adults, and families will delight in hands-on interactive activities and enjoyable storytelling that blend education with entertainment.
Exclusive Museum Experience: As a world premiere exhibition launch, this event offers content and artifacts not available elsewhere.
Celebrate Innovation and Creativity: Perfect for fans of movie magic, engineering, and design, the exhibit celebrates the creative teams pushing theme park boundaries.

Visitors will leave with a deep appreciation of how Universal’s theme parks harness creativity, technology, and narrative to create some of the world’s most memorable and beloved experiences.

About The Franklin Institute

The Franklin Institute is one of the nation’s leading science museums dedicated to inspiring a passion for learning and discovery. Located in Philadelphia’s lively Benjamin Franklin Parkway corridor, it offers a rich variety of interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and educational programs for visitors of all ages.

Address:
222 N 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Phone: (215) 448-1200

Website: https://www.fi.edu

The museum provides onsite parking, accessibility for disabled guests, dining options, and proximity to public transit including SEPTA’s 15th Street and 30th Street stations.

Planning Your Visit

Hours: The Franklin Institute is open Tuesday through Sunday, typically from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Check the official website for hours on holidays or special adjunct events.
Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible with accommodations for visitors with disabilities.
Family-Friendly: The exhibit’s interactive elements make it ideal for families and groups, creating memorable educational experiences for younger visitors.
Nearby Attractions: After your visit, explore Philadelphia’s iconic historic district, the nearby Barnes Foundation, or take a scenic walk along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

Summary Table

Details	Information
Event Name	Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition
Dates	February 14 – September 7, 2026
Venue	The Franklin Institute
Address	222 N 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Ticket Info & Purchase Link	The Franklin Institute Tickets
Venue Website	www.fi.edu
Map Link	Google Maps Directions

The 2026 arrival of Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition in Philadelphia is a landmark cultural event that fuses the magic of Hollywood with the artistry of theme park design and technological innovation. This immersive, interactive experience at the Franklin Institute allows fans, families, and visitors to journey behind the scenes of some of entertainment’s greatest attractions.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Universal’s blockbuster franchises or passionate about animation, engineering, and immersive storytelling, this exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the future and history of themed entertainment. Mark your calendar, secure your tickets early, and prepare for an unforgettable journey through thrills, technology, and movie magic in the City of Brotherly Love.

For tickets and details, visit:
Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition – Franklin Institute

For venue directions, visit:
Google Maps To The Franklin Institute# Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition Delivers Thrills, Tech & Movie Magic in Philadelphia 2026

The Franklin Institute, a premier science and technology museum, will provide a perfect home for this extraordinary exhibition, offering visitors a chance to engage with cutting-edge interactive displays within an accessible urban setting.

Exhibition Highlights

The exhibition delves deep into the creative genius behind Universal Theme Parks, exploring the roles of storyboard artists, animators, ride designers, visual effects artists, and prop masters. Guests will discover:

Themed Galleries: Explore eight immersive environments including dinosaur-filled Jurassic World, the fantastical animations of DreamWorks’ How to Train Your Dragon, and the eerie world of Universal Monsters.
Interactive Experiences: Participate in hands-on activities such as building roller coasters, designing monster masks, and programming animatronics using real theme park technology.
Original Artifacts: View over 100 props, costumes, and ride vehicles, including items from Universal’s Studio Tour and the newest Universal Epic Universe park.
Behind-the-Scenes Storytelling: Learn about the innovation, engineering, and artistry that create the thrilling atmosphere and beloved characters that define Universal’s parks.
Photo Opportunities: Strike a pose with characters like Toothless, Po, Tigress, and Gingy in specially designed themed environments.

These features showcase both the magic and the science that make Universal’s theme parks among the most technologically advanced and creatively compelling destinations in the world.

Ticket Information

Tickets for Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition will be available for purchase through The Franklin Institute’s official website and other authorized vendors:

General Admission: Daily admission with timed entry to manage crowd size and enhance visitor experience.
Family and Group Packages: Discounts available for larger parties and families to enjoy the exhibit together.
Season Passes and Membership Benefits: The Franklin Institute members receive preferred pricing and unlimited access.
Online Purchase Recommended: To avoid wait times and guarantee entry, guests are encouraged to buy tickets online in advance.

Secure your tickets and find detailed pricing information here:
The Franklin Institute Tickets | Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition .

Why Visit?

This exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience the unparalleled blend of art, technology, and storytelling that powers Universal’s world-renowned theme parks. Visitors gain a richer appreciation of the creative minds and technical innovations shaping thrilling ride experiences and captivating entertainment. It is perfect for families, movie buffs, aspiring designers, tech enthusiasts, and anyone curious about how imaginative worlds come alive.

The Franklin Institute’s accessible and engaging environment ensures the exhibition will be informative and fun for all ages, making it an unmissable event in Philadelphia’s vibrant 2026 cultural calendar.

About The Franklin Institute

Located in the heart of Philadelphia, The Franklin Institute is one of America’s leading science museums, renowned for its interactive exhibits and dedication to hands-on learning. It provides a family-friendly environment and rich educational programming, making it an ideal venue for Universal’s innovative exhibition.

Address: 222 N 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Phone: (215) 448-1200
Website: www.fi.edu
Accessibility: Fully accessible with accommodations for visitors with disabilities.

Parking: Available at the Institute’s parking garage and adjacent lots; public parking may also be available nearby.
Nearby Attractions: Explore the Benjamin Franklin Parkway’s other cultural institutions, dining options, and city landmarks before or after your visit.

Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition is set to be one of Philadelphia’s most spectacular cultural events of 2026. With its fusion of cutting-edge technology, beloved stories, and interactive play, this exhibition brings the wonder of Universal’s theme parks directly to visitors, providing an engaging look at the magic behind the scenes.

Whether you’re a theme park enthusiast, a movie fan, a tech aficionado, or a family looking for a day of fun and learning, this exhibition promises to deliver unforgettable thrills and insights into one of the world’s most innovative entertainment industries.

Prepare to be amazed as you step inside the worlds Universal has created and gain a new appreciation for the artistry that keeps millions coming back for more. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience movie magic and theme park innovation in the heart of Philadelphia!

For tickets and information, visit:
Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition – Franklin Institute

For directions:
Google Maps – The Franklin Institute