Parents, mark your calendars. Universal Kids Resort is throwing open its doors on July 1, 2026, in Frisco, Texas, and it's the first-ever theme park Universal has built with children and families as the sole focus. This isn't a corner of a bigger resort carved out for kids. This is a destination built from the ground up for the younger set.
The park spreads across 39 hectares in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, with an initial 8-hectare footprint that leaves room for future expansion. What you'll find inside are seven distinct lands, each built around beloved animated characters and franchises that kids already know and love. Tickets, hotel packages, and the park's first annual pass option are now on sale, so families can start planning their next adventure.
Seven Lands, Endless Adventures
Walk through the Isle of Curiosity and you might catch a dance party with Gabby from Gabby's Dollhouse. Head to DreamWorks' Shrek's Swamp and children can splash through wet and dry play areas inspired by the ogre's muddy world. The designers built this specifically for Shrek and Fiona's triplets to enjoy, so families with multiple kids will appreciate how thoughtful the setup is.
The Minions corner of the park, Illumination's Minions vs. Minions at Bello Bay Club, puts guests in the middle of a boat-based showdown between the mischievous yellow and purple Minions. Over at Jurassic World Adventure Camp, dinosaur-obsessed kids can ride a family-friendly coaster loaded with twists and turns, or dare the Pteranodrop for a high-flying view of the entire park.
SpongeBob, Trolls, and Puss in Boots Take Center Stage
Nickelodeon's Bikini Bottom has its own zone with multiple attractions. Hop aboard the Jelly Angler at Jellyfish Fields Jamboree, take the Barnacle Bus on a tour of the underwater city, splash at the Bobbing Barrels, or practice driving skills at Mrs. Puff's Boating School. Each attraction is designed for young children to actually interact with, not just watch from a distance.
DreamWorks' Trolls Fest brings the glitter and color with the King Troll Techno Dance Party and live entertainment that gets kids on their feet. For children who need a breather from the chaos, DreamWorks' Puss in Boots Del Mar offers quieter pleasures like Swings Over Del Mar and puppet shows.
Beyond the Rides
Sarah Gibbon, Vice President and Executive Producer at Universal Creative, explained the park's philosophy in a statement: "We considered how we could design a place especially for kids where they could explore, imagine and adventure with their families and friends." This philosophy shows everywhere. The park includes sensory gardens scattered throughout where kids can decompress between attractions. Themed food vendors, character shops, and plenty of shaded rest areas mean families can take it at their own pace rather than sprinting from one ride to the next.
If one day isn't enough, the on-site 300-room hotel lets families stay overnight surrounded by their favorite characters. Day passes come in 1- or 2-day options, with customizable packages that include 1.5-day access. Annual passes are available too for families planning multiple visits.
Given that regional travel destinations are becoming increasingly popular for family getaways, Texas residents and visitors from neighboring states will have a major new draw. The park opens right as summer break kicks in, making it an easy drive for families across the Southwest.
