Universal Just Opened a Massive Theme Park Exhibition—And You Don’t Need a Ticket to Orlando to See It

If you’ve ever dreamed of going behind the scenes at Universal’s theme parks but can’t make it to Orlando or Hollywood, you’re in luck. Universal Destinations & Experiences just launched a groundbreaking museum exhibition that brings the magic of their parks to Philadelphia—and it’s packed with real props, animatronics, and ride vehicles you won’t see anywhere else.

Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition opened February 14, 2026, at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, marking the first time Universal has created a dedicated museum experience showcasing how their legendary attractions come to life.

What’s Inside the Exhibition

This isn’t your typical theme park memorabilia display. The 18,000-square-foot exhibition spans eight themed galleries and features over 100 original artifacts from Universal’s most beloved attractions. We’re talking actual ride vehicles, character costumes, animatronic figures, and props that have appeared in the parks.

The exhibition covers Universal’s biggest franchises including Jurassic World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Illumination’s Minions, DreamWorks Animation’s How to Train Your Dragon, Universal Monsters, and more. You’ll also get an inside look at Universal Studios Hollywood’s World-Famous Studio Tour and the upcoming Universal Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort.

25 Interactive Experiences Await

Here’s where it gets really interesting. The exhibition doesn’t just let you look—it lets you do. There are 25 interactive experiences where you can build roller coasters, design monster masks, and even program animated figures. You’ll get hands-on with the technology and artistry that goes into creating Universal’s immersive attractions.

Want to pose with Toothless from How to Train Your Dragon? Done. Snap a photo with Po and Tigress from Kung Fu Panda? You got it. The exhibition includes character costumes and real props set up in themed environments perfect for photo opportunities.

Behind-the-scenes elements cover everything from animatronics and robotics to ride design, costuming, and special effects. For theme park enthusiasts who’ve always wondered how Universal pulls off those jaw-dropping experiences, this is your chance to learn the secrets.

When You Can Visit and What It Costs

The exhibition runs through September 7, 2026, at The Franklin Institute’s Nicholas and Athena Karabots Pavilion and Mandell Center. That gives you nearly seven months to plan a trip to Philadelphia if you’re not local.

While the NBCUniversal announcement didn’t specify exact ticket pricing in their press release, the exhibition is included with general admission to The Franklin Institute. Early access signups are available at fi.edu.

Why This Matters for Theme Park Fans

Universal has never done anything quite like this before. Theme park exhibitions typically showcase concept art and maybe a few props, but this goes much deeper. With actual ride vehicles, working animatronics, and interactive experiences that teach you how attractions are designed and built, it’s essentially a masterclass in themed entertainment.

For fans on the East Coast who can’t easily get to Universal’s parks in California or Florida, this exhibition offers something unique: a chance to experience Universal’s storytelling and innovation without boarding a plane. And for those planning future park trips, it’s incredible research. Understanding how these attractions are created makes experiencing them in person that much richer.

The timing is also notable. With Universal Epic Universe set to open in Orlando, this exhibition serves as both a celebration of Universal’s legacy attractions and a preview of what’s coming. It’s a smart move to build excitement and showcase the level of detail and innovation that goes into every Universal experience.

---

Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition is a must-see for anyone who’s ever been curious about what happens behind the magic. Whether you’re a die-hard theme park fan or just someone who appreciates incredible storytelling and design, this is seven months of access to a world that’s usually hidden from guests.