It’s been nearly five decades since audiences first watched Luke Skywalker gaze out at the twin suns of Tatooine, and now, The Franklin Institute is offering fans a peek behind the curtain. Star Wars: The Experience — A Journey Through the Galaxy is a new exhibit that celebrates 50 years of movie magic, and it officially opens in Philadelphia early next year.
According to LucasFilm and The Franklin Institute, this will be the “largest and most comprehensive behind-the-scenes exhibition celebrating the Star Wars galaxy.” With multiple galleries, it will feature more than 70 props and artifacts from the film. You can check out legendary pieces like Vader’s screen-worn costume, a speeder bike, R2-D2 models and much more.
It’s a must-see for any Star Wars fan, along with anyone who loves to know the real process behind the on-screen magic. In addition to props, the exhibit also “charts the evolution from analog ingenuity to digital reinvention and highlights the voices of early makers.”
The exhibit will open on Feb. 13, 2027, and run through Sept. 6 at The Franklin Institute. Tickets will go on sale starting in November of this year, though members will get presale access starting in October. After the initial run, it will tour North America for five years.
First look at Comic Con
The exhibit doesn’t open until next year, but we will be getting a sneak peek later this month. “The Making of Star Wars: The Experience” panel at this year’s San Diego Comic Con will feature some of the minds behind the exhibit and give fans an idea of what they can expect. The panel will be moderated Ashley Eckstein (the voice of Ahsoka Tano) and is scheduled for Friday, July 24.

