We finally have new details about what you can expect to see at the forthcoming Universal Kids Resort opening in North Texas next year.
A press release from Universal Destinations & Experiences stated that the park is a “first-of-a-kind resort specifically designed and developed for families with young children. ” It will include themed lands featuring DreamWorks characters from Shrek, Trolls, Gabby’s Dollhouse, and Puss in Boots, as well as favorites from Nickelodeon franchises like SpongeBob SquarePants, Jurassic World, and Minions from the animation studio illumination.
As previously reported in The Dallas Express, the park’s construction began in late 2023. The park will focus on family attractions, meet-and-greets, shows, and more. Universal is also building a 300-room hotel as part of the project.
“It’s an amazing opportunity to bring these iconic stories to life for kids and families to experience, interact with and play together,” Sarah Gibbon, vice president and executive producer of Universal Creative, explained in the announcement.
“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.”
Children “can stomp, ride, laugh and play” in the swamp-themed playground “built personally by Shrek” or tour the undersea environment of SpongeBob SquarePants and friends.
Expect areas “overrun” by Minions, while others will be filled with dinosaurs from the Jurassic World franchise. If your kids want to let loose, they can enjoy live music at “the most melodic, most awesome music festival with DreamWorks’ Trolls.”
Children can also play interactive Puss in Boots-themed games or grab a quick cat nap in the park’s sensory garden.
“At Universal Kids Resort, children will have the opportunity to play, sing, dance and discover with some of their favorite characters. 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,” said Dan Cuffe, vice president and general manager of Universal Kids Resort in Frisco.
Despite the fanfare, some in Frisco have opposed the park’s construction, citing safety concerns for the area’s children. At a special joint meeting of the Frisco City Council and Planning and Zoning Commission in 2023, one resident highlighted the heightened crime that tends to accompany theme parks. Others at the meeting opposed the project over the anticipated spike in traffic that the park will likely bring.
The new Frisco park is expected to open in 2026.