Universal Kids Resort Reveals Themed Lands for 2026 Debut

Published by Jon Self on

Universal Kids Resort

We got a few more details about the future of Universal Kids Resort coming to Frisco, Texas. This new theme park opens in 2026.

Universal Destinations & Experiences revealed the themed lands guests will experience at Universal Kids Resort. The new theme park, opening in 2026, will feature lands themed around characters, including DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek, Puss in Boots, Trolls and Gabby’s Dollhouse; Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants; Illumination’s Minions, and Jurassic World.

Universal Kids Resort
Original Concept Art for Universal Kids Resort

Universal Kids Resort intends to entertain guests of all ages, primarily focusing on families with younger children. This new theme park marks a significant change compared to the other domestic Universal theme parks in California and Florida.

Universal Kids Resort

“It’s an amazing opportunity to bring these iconic stories to life for kids and families to experience, interact with and play together,” said Sarah Gibbon, VP & executive producer, Universal Creative. “At each point, we considered how we could design a place especially for kids where they could explore, imagine and adventure with their families and friends. They’ll be able to do all this while being fully immersed in some of their favorite stories – ones full of curiosity, laughter and joy.”

Universal Kids Resort: Shrek

Shrek
Shrek’s Swamp Meet Concept Art at DreamWorks Land at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal stated that ogre-sized fun awaits guests in DreamWorks’ Shrek’s swamp-themed playground, which Shrek personally built. Kids can stomp, ride, laugh, and play as they celebrate the magic of friendship, the warmth of family, and the power of love.

SpongeBob SquarePants

Universal Kids Resort
Squidward Meet and Greet at Universal Studios Florida

SpongeBob SquarePants fans can dive into the undersea world of Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants. Patrick, Sandy Cheeks, and Squidward. Guests can explore their neighborhood under the sea. They can earn a boating license or relax on the beach as bubbles float by. Kids and their families and friends can enjoy the nautical, nonsensical delights.

Universal Kids Resort: Minions

Minion Land
Photo from Minion Land at Universal Studios Florida

To no one’s surprise. Illumination’s Minions earned a land at Universal Kids Resort. It appears that the Yellow Minions will attempt to rein in their evil Purple counterparts. This should lead to many unpredictable adventures. In this Universal Kids Resort area, guests can participate in this action-packed competition or relax and watch the chaos unfold. Whatever they choose, every splash, laugh, and surprise might make the visit worthwhile.

Jurassic World

Though the narrative of “Jurassic World” may not sound very kid-friendly, Universal Kids Resort offers guests the chance to play along. Discoveries abound as kids learn about and come face to face with dinosaurs of “Jurassic World” in uniquely exciting and interactive ways. This new adventure exclusively created for young explorers should be both exhilarating and awe-inspiring.

Universal Kids Resort: Trolls

Trolls
Trolls Merchandise from Universal Studios Florida

Like Universal Studios Florida, DreamWorks’ Trolls have plenty to offer guests. These musically talented Trolls are having a music festival. At this colorful, joy-filled, and, of course, glittery fest, guests of all sizes join Poppy, Branch, and the rest of the gang to bring their voices together in harmony while shining brightly.

Puss in Boots

That fun style continues with DreamWorks’ Puss in Boots, Kitty Softpaws, and Perrito. A kitty adoption drive happens with fabulous decorations, sideshow games, fun rides, and festive food. Guests can recharge in a sensory garden for those needing a cat nap.

Universal Kids Resort Central Hub

Gabby's Dollhouse
Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse
Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

The central hub of Universal Kids Resort will feature shady lawns and interactive play areas that give kids and their families plenty of space to rest and play. Guests can also meet characters like Gabby from DreamWorks’ Gabby’s Dollhouse in a unique immersive retail experience.

“At Universal Kids Resort, children will have the opportunity to play, sing, dance and discover with some of their favorite characters,” said Dan Cuffe, vice president and general manager of Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas. “Beyond the highly engaging attractions and shows, families will find ample areas to rest and also enjoy themed food and beverages and shop for fun character souvenirs. Each of these areas elicit wonder with a lush, colorful environment.”

Universal Kids Resort Hotel

Universal Kids Resort

The theme park also presents guests with a nearby highly themed hotel. This colorfully themed on-site 300-room hotel designed with families in mind will offer a place to stay, play, and relax after all the fun of the park. The site will also serve as the entrance to Universal Kids Resort.

Announced in January 2023, Universal Kids Resort in Frisco is the first theme park designed specifically for families with young children. It is part of the company’s approach of bringing the Universal brand to life to new audiences in new markets through new, original concepts.

To stay updated on all the company’s newest developments, visit UniversalKidsResort.com. For more theme park-related news, please visit MSM News.

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Jon Self

Jon Self is an avid theme park fan. You can follow him at @pastorjonself on X/ Twitter or Jon.Self.37 at Instagram. He has been writing and editing in the theme park media world for over a decade. He also writes for several "foodie" sites as well as in the faith-based world.