Sneak Peek: Universal Kids Resort Drops New Details Ahead Of 2026 Opening

Tickets are expected to go on sale soon, ahead of the 2026 opening

Photo: Universal Destinations & Experiences

Universal Destinations & Experiences just unveiled new details about Universal Kids Resort, the upcoming theme park designed specifically for families with young children. Opening in 2026 in Frisco, Texas, the park will feature seven immersive lands inspired by beloved characters and stories from DreamWorks, Illumination and Nickelodeon.

Universal Kids Resort aims to capture the magic of play, imagination and creativity. Molly Murphy, president of Universal Creative, said the park is all about bringing the “youngest guests and families together through play, creativity and beloved characters and stories.”

Photo: Universal Destinations & Experiences

Seven Lands Of Fun And Fantasy

Families will begin their adventure at the Isle of Curiosity, a whimsical entryway featuring a meet-and-greet with Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse and a family dance party. From there, guests can explore a world of storytelling brought to life in seven themed zones:

• DreamWorks’ Shrek’s Swamp: Kids can splash and stomp through Shrek’s waterlogged hideaway, meet Shrek and Fiona and pose with the iconic onion carriage.

• DreamWorks’ Puss in Boots Del Mar: Carnival games, meet-and-greets and feline fun await as guests join Puss in Boots, Mama Luna and Perrito.

• Illumination’s Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club: Yellow and Purple Minions go head-to-head in a chaotic, water-soaked competition.

• Jurassic World Adventure Camp: Families can meet baby dinosaurs and climb to new heights at Lookout Towers for a bird’s-eye view of the park.

• DreamWorks’ TrollsFest: A glittery celebration filled with music, dancing and play areas inspired by Poppy, Branch and the Trolls crew.

• Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom: Under the sea, families can meet SpongeBob, Patrick and Sandy while exploring Pineapple Paradise and Mussel Beach.

Photo: Universal Destinations & Experiences

“We envisioned this park through the unbridled creativity of kids where infinite imagination, curiosity and free-spirited play were core to our design philosophies,” Universal Creative Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer Brian Robinson said in an official statement. “It produced a park that’s pure joy and an absolute celebration of what it is to be a kid.” 

Beyond the attractions, the park includes multiple sensory gardens — calming spaces designed for children and families to pause, explore and reconnect with nature. Universal’s creative team is also incorporating interactive play elements throughout the park, where team members will encourage spontaneous fun through sidewalk chalk, bubble-blowing and water blasters.

A Resort For Rest And Play

The experience extends beyond the park with the Universal Kids Resort Hotel, a 300-room property designed for families. The colorful, family-friendly hotel will serve as both a place to unwind and the main gateway to the park.

Photo: Universal Destinations & Experiences

As Frisco continues to grow as a destination for entertainment and family experiences, Universal Kids Resort is poised to become one of the region’s most anticipated openings.  Ticket sales and hotel reservations for the $550 million theme park are expected to open before the end of the year.

According to Universal, more details about attractions, entertainment and dining are expected to be released in the coming months. 

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