Houston, get ready to assemble. Marvel: The Exhibition – Universe of Super Heroes is heading to the Houston Museum of Natural Science this December, bringing original comic artwork, authentic movie costumes, props, and life-size superhero figures along for the adventure. The exhibition opens to the public on December 19, 2026, following a members-only preview on December 18.
Spanning more than 85 years of Marvel history, the exhibition traces the journey from comic-book pages to the film and television universe that turned its characters into household names. Whether you’re drawn to vintage comics or the costumes behind your favorite blockbuster moments, there’s plenty to explore.
From Iron Man’s Armor To Black Panther’s Costumes
The exhibition will feature more than 150 rare and original artifacts, including screen-used Marvel Studios costumes and props alongside original comic art. Among the announced Houston highlights are Iron Man suits worn by Robert Downey Jr., Academy Award-winning costumes from Black Panther, and life-size figures of characters including Spider-Man and Thor.
Comic-book fans can also look forward to historic material including Marvel Comics #1, published in 1939, offering a glimpse of Marvel’s beginnings long before its heroes took over cinema screens.
A Look Behind The Superhero Stories
The exhibition explores the creators behind Marvel’s characters, the fictional worlds they built, and the relationship between those stories and the wider culture. Original artwork and material associated with figures including Stan Lee and Steve Ditko help connect the comics’ origins with the Marvel universe audiences know today.
Houston is the latest stop for the touring exhibition, which debuted in 2018 and has previously appeared at Seattle’s Museum of Pop Culture, Philadelphia’s Franklin Institute, and Charlotte’s Discovery Place Science.
When Can You Visit?
Marvel: The Exhibition – Universe of Super Heroes opens to the public on December 19, 2026, on Level 2 of the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Museum members will get an early look during a preview on December 18.
According to the museum, members have ticket access through November 8, with public ticket sales beginning November 9. Admission also includes access to the museum’s permanent exhibit halls, subject to the exclusions listed by HMNS.
Ticket prices and an exhibition closing date have not yet been listed on the museum’s exhibition page.
- Where: Houston Museum of Natural Science, 5555 Hermann Park Drive, Houston
- Public opening: December 19, 2026
- Members’ preview: December 18, 2026
- Public tickets on sale: November 9, 2026
