Star Wars: The Experience is making its world debut in Philadelphia in 2027 at the Franklin Institute, bringing an immersive walking tour of the galaxy to one of America’s oldest science museums. The attraction marks a new push to move Star Wars beyond screens and into physical spaces where fans can walk through scenes and interact with props.

The Franklin Institute is a smart location. Philadelphia has strong Star Wars fandom and older infrastructure willing to host large attractions. The museum attracts 500,000+ visitors annually, so audience volume is proven. The 2027 timing suggests construction and permitting takes another year, typical for large exhibition projects.

What Is the Experience?

Details are sparse, but immersive exhibits like this typically involve themed rooms, life-size props, costumes, and interactive elements. Expect to walk through a spaceport, a Jedi temple, a cantina, and possibly a throne room. There will be photo opportunities and merchandise for sale. Educational content about the Star Wars universe will be woven in because it’s at a science museum.

These attractions make money through admission and gift shop sales. Star Wars fans pay $30-50 per ticket. A six-month run with thousands of daily visitors can generate $10-20 million in revenue. For the Franklin Institute, it’s a draw that keeps people on-site longer and raises visibility. For Lucasfilm, it’s brand engagement that doesn’t require making a new film.

Why a Museum Instead of a Theme Park

Building a permanent Star Wars theme park requires billions. Disney already has Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland. Creating another would cannibalize attendance. A temporary exhibition tour lets Lucasfilm monetize fandom without that commitment. Tour to multiple cities, 6-12 months per location, then move on. If Philadelphia does well, expect versions in Tokyo, London, and Sydney.

The museum partnership is a smart choice. Science museums have audiences interested in immersive storytelling and interactive exhibits. They also have the infrastructure to host 500-1,000 visitors daily and manage crowds. It’s gentler than a theme park but still lucrative.

Timeline and Expectations

A 2027 debut is tight but doable for construction. The Franklin Institute will probably allocate 10,000-15,000 square feet. Designers will lean on established immersive theater techniques used in other museum exhibits. Opening will likely be spring or summer 2027 to capture tourist season.

This is smart brand extension. Star Wars exists everywhere now—shows, games, comics, merchandise. An experience that lets people step into the universe is inevitable. Philadelphia gets it first. Expect it to become a regular tour stop.