Universal Destinations & Experiences is diving deep into the world of imagination with brand-new details about its upcoming Universal Kids Resort, opening in 2026 in Frisco, Texas. This marks Universal’s first-ever theme park designed specifically for families with young children — and from the looks of it, it’s going to be pure magic from the ground up.
The new resort will feature seven themed lands, each inspired by some of the most beloved franchises from DreamWorks, Illumination, and Nickelodeon. Every corner of the park is designed to spark wonder, creativity, and hands-on play — or, as Universal Creative puts it, to celebrate “what it is to be a kid.”
Let’s take a stroll through these all-new worlds of fun!
Isle of Curiosity
Your adventure begins at the Isle of Curiosity, a whimsical entryway that invites families to explore, imagine, and discover. This area sets the tone for the park’s playful spirit — and you can even meet Gabby from DreamWorks’ Gabby’s Dollhouse for a pawsome dance party and meet & greet. It’s all about curiosity, color, and creativity right from the start.
DreamWorks’ Shrek’s Swamp
Next up: an ogre-sized good time in Shrek’s Swamp! Shrek’s cozy shack has been transformed into a waterlogged paradise where kids can splash, stomp, and play their way through interactive zones like Swamp Rompin’ Stomp and Swamp Splash & Smash. Families can meet Shrek, Fiona, and even the triplets, plus take a photo in the famous onion carriage.
DreamWorks’ Puss in Boots Del Mar
Feeling adventurous? Then head over to Puss in Boots Del Mar, where the fearless feline and his pals Mama Luna and Perrito await. Families can take on carnival-style games like Barriles de Leche and El Gato’s Meow, adding a playful seaside flair to the legendary cat’s swashbuckling world.
Illumination’s Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club
Over at Bello Bay Club, chaos reigns supreme as Yellow Minions try to keep the Purple Minions in check. It’s a friendly rivalry that promises a mix of water-soaked antics, interactive games, and meet & greets with everyone’s favorite banana-loving troublemakers. Whether you dive into the mayhem or sit back and laugh, it’s bound to be full of “Minion-approved” mischief.
Jurassic World Adventure Camp
For budding explorers, Jurassic World Adventure Camp delivers the excitement of dinosaurs — scaled perfectly for kids! From meeting a newly hatched baby dino to climbing the Lookout Towers for a Pteranodon’s-eye view, this land offers the right mix of thrills and discovery.
DreamWorks’ TrollsFest
The beat drops at TrollsFest, where the party never stops! Expect non-stop music, color, and dance as families join Poppy, Branch, and the Trolls gang in two play zones: Poppy’s Playland and Trolls Critter Crawl. It’s a glitter-filled celebration of joy that perfectly captures the Trolls’ upbeat world.
Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom
And of course, who lives in a pineapple under the sea? SpongeBob SquarePants — and now, so can you (almost)! Families can meet SpongeBob, Patrick, and Sandy, explore Mussel Beach, and cool off in Pineapple Paradise. Expect plenty of nautical nonsense and “the best day ever” vibes throughout Bikini Bottom.
Play Beyond the Rides
Beyond the attractions, Universal Kids Resort emphasizes imaginative play and sensory experiences. Interactive play zones, water blasters, sidewalk chalk stations, and sensory gardens give kids endless opportunities to engage their senses and creativity. Universal even plans to have team members dedicated to encouraging play, helping kids create their own adventures throughout the day.
Rest and Recharge at the Universal Kids Resort Hotel
After a full day of play, families can stay just steps away at the Universal Kids Resort Hotel, a 300-room, colorfully themed retreat that doubles as the park’s main entrance. It’s designed to be just as imaginative and family-friendly as the park itself.
Universal’s vision is clear — this isn’t just a smaller version of its existing parks; it’s something completely new. A destination built from a child’s perspective, full of creativity, color, and curiosity.
As Universal Kids Resort gears up for its grand opening in 2026, one thing’s for sure: kids and families will soon have a brand-new place to laugh, splash, and dream together — Universal style.
