Universal Destinations & Experiences unveiled plans Tuesday in a company announcement for seven themed lands at its upcoming Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas. The family-focused theme park will feature attractions based on DreamWorks and Nickelodeon properties when it opens in 2026.
As previously reported in The Dallas Express, the park’s construction began in late 2023. The park will feature family attractions, character meet-and-greets, and live shows. Universal is also building a 300-room hotel as part of the project.
The announcement marks Universal’s first theme park designed specifically for young children and their families. The resort aims to bring Universal’s entertainment closer to regional audiences rather than requiring cross-country travel to its flagship parks.
“Universal Kids Resort embodies the spirit of igniting thrills that drives everything we create — designed to bring our youngest guests and families together through play, creativity, and beloved characters and stories,” said Molly Murphy, president of Universal Creative. “It’s a destination made for kids and, as a regional theme park, brings Universal’s signature storytelling to families close to home.”
The seven themed lands will include DreamWorks’ Shrek’s Swamp, Puss in Boots Del Mar, and TrollsFest. Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom and Illumination’s Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club round out the character-based areas.
A Jurassic World Adventure Camp will let children meet baby dinosaurs and climb Pteranodon-view lookout towers. The Isle of Curiosity will serve as the park’s whimsical entrance featuring Gabby from DreamWorks’ Gabby’s Dollhouse.
“We envisioned this park through the unbridled creativity of kids, where infinite imagination, curiosity, and free-spirited play were core to our design philosophies,” said Brian Robinson, executive vice president and chief creative officer at Universal Creative. “It produced a park that’s pure joy and an absolute celebration of what it is to be a kid.”
Each land will feature interactive play areas, character meet-and-greets, and water-based attractions. Shrek’s Swamp will include the Rompin’ Stomp and Splash & Smash play zones, while Puss in Boots Del Mar will offer carnival games.
The Minions area promises water-soaked competition between Yellow and Purple Minions. TrollsFest will feature glitter-filled character encounters plus Poppy’s Playland and Trolls Critter Crawl play areas.
The park will incorporate sensory gardens throughout, providing calming spaces for children needing breaks from stimulation. These nature-inspired areas will offer opportunities to explore through touch, sound, and color.
“With all the interactive play areas at Universal Kids Resort where kids can explore, discover, and create, we’re really excited about this being a place for kids to play their way,” Robinson said. Park staff will facilitate creative play with sidewalk chalk and water activities.
The resort will also include a 300-room, family-focused hotel adjacent to the park entrance, serving as the main gateway to Universal Kids Resort.
Universal has not yet announced specific attraction details, ticket pricing, or an exact opening date. The company promises to reveal more information about rides, entertainment, merchandise, and dining options in the coming months.