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Coming in 2026 to Frisco, Texas, Universal Kids Resort promises to be a one-of-a-kind destination built entirely with young children (and their families) in mind. According to Universal, this is the first-ever theme park designed from the ground up for little ones; a place “where kids are encouraged to play, to use their imagination, to pique curiosity, and to find fun ways to explore.”
What Makes Universal Kids Resort So Special
Unlike the typical Universal parks, this resort is built specifically to nurture creativity, play, and family togetherness. Every element — from the rides and shows to the hotel — is thoughtfully crafted to delight younger guests. A 300-room, on-site hotel sits at the heart of the resort and doubles as the park entrance. Designed with families in mind, its colorful theming offers a cozy base for rest and relaxation after a full day of adventure.
Recognizing that theme parks can be overwhelming for little ones, Universal is also rolling out sensory garden zones throughout the resort. These calm, shaded areas provide space for families to decompress, recharge, and reset away from the bustle.
Explore the Seven Magical Lands
Families can step into seven immersive lands, each themed around beloved franchises and designed with gentle, age-appropriate experiences in mind. Here’s a quick look:
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Isle of Curiosity: This central hub features Gabby’s Dollhouse. Visitors can kick off their day at the Universal Kids Resort Café (serving breakfast, snacks, and pastries), dance with Gabby at the “Cat-Tastic Dance Party,” and browse fun merchandise in the Waves of Wonder shop.
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Shrek’s Swamp: Little ogres can romp around in playgrounds, splash in water zones, and even ride Shrek & Fiona’s Happily Ogre After, an attraction retelling the story of how Shrek and Fiona fell in love — with help from fan-favorite Donkey.
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Bikini Bottom (SpongeBob SquarePants): Float on “pink jellyfish” in the Jellyfish Fields Jamboree, take a wacky ride on the Barnacle Bus, spin barrels in a water ride, or practice boating at Mrs. Puff’s Boating School. Plus, there’s a wet play zone, meet-and-greets, twirling midway games, and even a gift shop modeled after Krusty-themed outlets.
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Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club: Dive into mischievous water battles with blasters, race in a golf-cart derby (choose your side: Yellow or Purple), enjoy a boat cruise, and refuel with themed snacks — all while snapping photos and meeting your favorite Minions.
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Jurassic World Adventure Camp: Budding paleontologists can float into a world of baby dinosaurs, ride the Cretaceous Coaster chasing an Ankylosaurus, spin in a “genetics pod,” and even drop gently from a Pteranodon-themed tower. There’s also a paddock play area, lookout towers, and a sensory garden. Hungry explorers can tuck into dinosaur-themed meals at the Jurassic World Canteen or grab gear from the “Supply Depot.”
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TrollsFest: A festival of music, color, and glitter, this area invites guests to dance along with Poppy and Branch, ride on balloon-shaped “Hair in the Clouds,” join meet-and-greets, and even help “produce” a concert via interactive shows. When it’s time to rest, a shaded Sensory Garden offers a soothing retreat.
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Puss in Boots Del Mar: This charming seaside town celebrates Puss and his pals with a flying-swing carousel called Swings Over Del Mar, a Kitty Adoption Day show, carnival-style games, and a cozy Sensory Garden for winding down. Hungry or shopping? Visit Mama Luna’s, Mercado de Perrito, and Tienda de Dulces for treats and keepsakes.
Why This Park Matters
Universal’s senior show producer, Randolph Borden, emphasizes that this isn’t just a scaled-down adult park — it’s tailored specifically to young families. He believes parents will appreciate the nostalgic characters (like SpongeBob) they grew up with, while their kids will be enthralled by playful, interactive worlds that have been reinvented just for them.
Creating Universal Kids Resort has been a rewarding journey for the team, and Borden says he’s most excited to see kids’ unfiltered imaginations come to life. As families step into these vivid worlds, Universal hopes they’ll feel a genuine sense of wonder, joy, and discovery, leaving parents just as mesmerized as their little ones.
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