The Franklin Institute is developing and launching a new exhibit in partnership with Universal Destinations & Experiences that celebrates the company’s theme parks and attractions.
The new exhibition will debut at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia in early 2026 before going on a tour of North America. MDSX, an award-winning experience design, media production and creative management agency, is the lead design firm on the project.
The show will offer an immersive exploration of Universal’s theme parks and attractions through original artwork, replicas, models and interactive elements.
“Universal Destinations and & Experiences thrills and delights more than 50 million guests every year in our parks around the world,” said Page Thompson, president of new ventures at Universal Destinations & Experiences.
The exhibition will reveal “how Universal brings the worlds of famous movies, stories, and video games to life with a combination of creativity, innovation and industry-leading technology”, Thompson added.
Guests will get a behind-the-scenes look at the storytelling, innovation and world-building that have inspired Universal’s designs, from its earliest Studio Tour to the launch of new projects like Universal Epic Universe.
Additionally, the show will explore the principles of science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics (STEAM) in theme park design and development.
An immersive exploration of Universal’s parks
“The Franklin Institute is thrilled to announce its partnership with Universal Destinations & Experiences, a trailblazer in the themed entertainment industry, to develop a first-of-its-kind exhibition on how theme parks are made,” said Abby Bysshe, chief experience and strategy officer at the Franklin Institute.
“This showcase of innovation and creativity with global audience appeal is a testament to our commitment to delivering dynamic storytelling through exceptional experiences.”
Larry Dubinski, president and CEO of the Franklin Institute, added: “Hosting the world premiere of an exhibition of this caliber in 2026, during what will be a monumental year for the nation, is extraordinary.”
The new exhibit will include a retail outlet for themed merchandise.
Images courtesy of the Franklin Institute / Universal
