PHOTOS: Universal Theme Park Exhibit At Franklin Institute Opens Saturday

PHILADELPHIA — The Franklin Institute's newest exhibition opens Saturday, and it offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look at Universal theme parks, as well as hands-on experiences.

Fans of "Jurassic World," DreamWorks Animation's "How to Train Your Dragon," Illumination's "Minions", the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Mario and Donkey Kong, Universal Monsters, and more will get to see what makes these attractions at Universal theme parks run, as well as how they are designed.

Page Thompson, President of New Ventures at Universal Destinations & Experiences, told Patch the exhibition aims to illustrate how much work goes into designing theme parks.

"The exhibition really takes people behind the scenes and gives them a look at the process by which we create these amazing attractions," he said.

Thompson noted that park guests see the final product, but are likely unaware of the extensive planning that goes into the rides, shows, engineering, art design, food offerings, and more.

"So I don't think people really understand the process and how much work goes into it, the development, and how many ideas are actually discarded before you find the final perfect idea," he said.

The exhibition includes interactive elements, such as designing roller coasters, programming light shows, creating themed desserts, animatronic controls, and more.

"It celebrates the bold creativity, technical mastery, and imaginative storytelling that define Universal as a global leader in immersive themed entertainment," Larry Dominski, President and CEO of the Franklin Institute, said.

It also highlights the jobs within the Universal parks through the "Portals into the Profession," which feature video interviews with various people who help bring the parks to life and make them run.

"Because a giant theme park resort is like a city, there are all sorts of functions and needs for people," Thompson said. "There's different kinds of expertise, whether it's engineering, operations, or marketing. So this gives you a kind of look into the world of the theme park."

And of course, there is plenty of merchandise in the gift shop. Visitors will find Yoshi onesies, classic Universal horror movie posters, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry gear, themed Lego sets, Minions plushies, and much more as they end their time in the exhibition.

"I hope as a result of this, people come to our theme parks, and I hope that people think about this as a career that they might want to pursue," Thompson said.

"We know this exhibition will be a huge draw and we are so proud to deliver it as part of Philadelphia's lineup of events celebrating the nation's 250th anniversary," Dominski said. This year will no doubt showcase the city as a leader in innovation, culture, and creativity."

Abby Bysshe, Chief Experience and Strategy Officer at the Franklin Institute, said opening the exhibition was a two-year process and was aided by Universal Destinations and Experiences and MDSX Creative.

"We're incredibly grateful to our partners here today for making it a reality," she said.

The exhibition will run through Sept. 7, then will embark on a five-year tour to various locations around the nation.

Get tickets online here.

Check out photos from the exhibition below: