During a panel at San Diego Comic Con, new details were revealed for Star Wars: The Experience, an epic journey through the legacy of Star Wars. This exhibit will make its debut at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia from February 13 - September 6,2027, with a 5-year North American Tour to follow.
"This exhibition invites all fans to step into the Star Wars galaxy in an entirely new way, getting closer than ever to the stories, characters, and creativity that have inspired generations," said Abby Bysshe, Chief Experience and Strategy Officer at The Franklin Institute. "It's an experience that celebrates not only how Star Wars began, but why it continues to captivate and unite so many across the globe."
We got our first look at key art showcasing what fans can expect to see in the 18,000 sq. ft exhibit. I am trying to contain myself over the the beauty of these photos! I'm sure I will shed tears if I get the chance to see it during the North American Tour. Details below.
Guests walk through a room of suspended fabric and projection, surrounded by voices and imagery of Star Wars costume designers. Along the way, they encounter key costumes and costume art that culminate at Queen Amidala’s iconic red Throne Room Gown.
Anchored by a wireframe TIE fighter, this gallery immerses guests in the blueprint stage of Star Wars set design. Edge-lit acrylic panels and displayed artifacts showcase early vehicle sketches and design notes that evolved into cinematic icons, while surrounding graphics display diagrams of the many ships that have brought the saga to life.
In this dramatic, photo-ready moment, guests encounter full-scale Han Solo in a carbonite prop surrounded by two interactive stations. Here, guests can experience their own “carbon freeze” sequence - an unforgettable fusion of storytelling and technology that allows fans to “step” directly into one of cinema’s most iconic scenes.
"Lucasfilm has always been at the forefront of merging cutting edge technology and limitless storytelling," said Lynwen Brennan, Co-President of Lucasfilm. "In collaboration with The Franklin Institute, we are creating an experience that reflects that very spirit of curiosity and creativity. As we mark the incredible milestone of the 50th anniversary of Star Wars, we wanted to develop something truly extraordinary—a space that honors both the visionary pioneers who built this galaxy, and the remarkable fan community at its heart. 'Star Wars: The Experience' is a testament to five decades of innovative storytelling, and we are excited for visitors to immerse themselves in the Star Wars legacy through this new exhibition."
Using the latest RFID technology, each guest journey becomes uniquely personal, shaped by their choices and driven by their alliance with the Force. As guests move throughout the exhibition, hidden moments, evolving interactions, and story elements will unfold, culminating in a personalized finale moment.
As part of the finale of the exhibition is an unprecedented look at 50 years of Star Wars action figure history and creation, featuring more than 90 iconic Star Wars collectible figures, including vintage figures, over 20 rare prototypes, development models, tooling samples, and original design materials, some of which have never been displayed publicly before. This unique showcase reveals how Kenner's and Hasbro's artistry has evolved alongside the saga itself, from the iconic figures of the Original Trilogy to today's premium collectibles.
Tickets go on sale this November!
Thank you to The Walt Disney Company for providing me with this information and photos to share with you.
I can’t stop staring at Queen Amidala’s Throne Room. What do you all think? What looks and sounds the most fascinating to you? You can get in touch with me by leaving a comment below or following me on my social media channels: Instagram, X, Threads or Bluesky.
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