#United States #Philadelphia #Franklin Institute #Universal Parks #Comcast NBCUniversal

Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition

The world of entertainment meets innovation as The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia prepares to unveil its highly anticipated exhibition, Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition, premiering on February 14, 2026. In collaboration with Comcast NBCUniversal, this first-of-its-kind exhibition aims to provide an immersive and interactive experience that brings to life the vivid storytelling and creativity behind Universal's themed attractions.

An Overview of the Exhibition

Spanning an expansive 18,000 square feet, the exhibition will feature eight themed galleries boasting 25 interactive experiences and over 100 original artifacts from beloved attractions such as Jurassic World and DreamWorks Animation's How to Train Your Dragon. Visitors will venture into the rich legacy of Universal, known for transforming iconic franchises into unforgettable experiences.

From the vivid imagination that fuels attractions like Universal Monsters to the recent launch of Universal Epic Universe in Orlando, the exhibition is a celebration of storytelling, innovation, and artistry that defines these remarkable destinations.

Interactive Experiences Await

Guests can dive headfirst into the creative universe of Universal through various engaging activities:

• - Step into the Action: An immersive setup that transports guests into Universal's celebrated attractions.
• - Unleash Your Inner Creator: Using real theme park tools, visitors can craft roller coasters, design monster masks, and program animated figures.
• - Get Up Close with the Icons: A chance to see ride vehicles and props from attractions such as Jurassic World and other favorites.
• - See the Stars: Snap photos alongside costumes worn by iconic characters like Toothless and Po from Universal’s live shows.
• - Explore the Tech Behind the Thrills: Delve into the science and storytelling that power the park's attractions.
• - Strike a Pose: Capture moments with genuine props set in themed environments.

These interactive experiences not only entertain but also illuminate the skills of storyboard artists, animators, game designers, and visual effects artists who shape the future of themed entertainment.

Behind the Exhibition

The exhibition is the result of collaboration with MDSX, a renowned creative design firm that excels in producing engaging and imaginative exhibits. The Franklin Institute’s President and CEO Larry Dubinski expressed excitement over the unveiling of this monumental exhibition, emphasizing its unique contribution to the series of major events planned for Philadelphia in 2026.

A Commitment to Quality Engagement

This endeavor symbolizes The Franklin Institute's commitment to offering unparalleled experiences. Abby Bysshe, Chief Experience and Strategy Officer at the Institute, noted the exhibit's potential to capture the imagination and attention of visitors of all ages through an engaging exploration of theme park innovation.

Aiming for Unforgettable Experiences

Gerald Raines, Senior Vice President of Global Location Based Entertainment & Licensing at Universal, highlighted the significance of providing an in-depth look at the creativity involved in developing attractions that astonish and excite guests.

As the local presenting sponsor, Comcast NBCUniversal remarked on the excitement surrounding the Philadelphia community as they gear up to experience a vivid portrayal of Universal's captivating world.

Conclusion

Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition not only showcases the thrills and artistry of Universal’s legendary creations but also embodies the spirit of discovery that The Franklin Institute has championed for over 200 years. The exhibition is set to run from February 14, 2026, to September 7, 2026, offering an extraordinary opportunity for fans and newcomers alike to engage with the magic of Universal’s theme parks. Tickets for early access and updates are available now at www.fi.edu.