In a city filled with engaging and educational museums, the Franklin Institute stands out amongst the pack. Located in Center City, this diverse museum features a rotation of rare special exhibitions, such as the current terracotta warriors display. Additionally, there are all types of science and technology-based experiences to enjoy here. Our Philadelphia personal injury lawyers recently visited the Franklin Institute and thought we’d share some of our favorite experiences.

Terracotta Warriors of the First Emperor

This exhibit tells the story of the thousands of terracotta warriors discovered by a farmer in China in 1974. This farmer accidentally struck terracotta while digging a well, leading to the discovery of thousands of life-sized statues which were built as guardians for the tomb of China’s first emperor over 2,000 years ago.

Over the past four decades, archaeologists have excavated and researched the warriors, which had been buried underground since about 210 BCE. However, much remains to be learned about this mysterious figures.

The Franklin Institute’s exhibit is the only opportunity to see the statues on the East Coast, and part of a two-city exhibit tour. Visitors to this exhibit will be awe-inspired at the beauty and intricacies of this figures, and will also have the opportunity to learn about their history and how they were built. A must-visit for any lover of ancient history!

Escape Rooms

Escape room games have taken the country by storm over the past few years. These thrilling experiences combine an entertaining mix of problem-solving, teamwork, and fun that visitors of all ages (recommended for ages 10 and up) can enjoy together. These games make especially fun experiences for families or groups of friends.

The Franklin Institute offers a choice of two settings for their escape room games:

  • Intergalactic Escape – This is a sci-fi themed escape room. Captain Derrick Pitts gives your team a mission to travel through time and restore the pillars that balance the galaxies. You’ll need to work together solving problems related to space/time continuum if you want to succeed in your mission.
  • Island Escape – In this light-hearted themed escape room, you’re invited to a billionaire’s private island. Your host will issue several funny and entertaining challenges, and it will be up to you to work with your teammates to get back to the mainland safely.

3D Printing The Future

3D printing has started to become the hot new technological craze and is only expected to grow in the coming years. This exhibit will educate you on the story behind the technology and how its advanced since its conception. You can view several 3D printers which are printing objects in the display, explore a display of hundreds of 3D-printed objects, and learn how 3D printing has already been used for medical advancements.

Virtual Reality

The Franklin Institute is home to one of the world’s most comprehensive virtual reality (VR) experiences. Transport yourself to distant worlds (both real and fictional) through the use of an HTC Vive or Oculus Rift. You can dive into the deep sea and get up close and personal with aquatic life, travel to outer space, or navigate your way through the inside of a human body – just to name a few of your adventure choices. The HTC Vive allows you to walk around and fully explore these worlds, while the Oculus Rift offers a more relaxed, seated experience.