Universal Destinations & Experiences is giving families a first look at the colorful new worlds they’ll soon be able to explore together at Universal Kids Resort — the company’s first theme park designed specifically for young children. Opening in 2026 in Frisco, Texas, the new destination will feature seven themed lands inspired by beloved Universal, DreamWorks, Illumination, and Nickelodeon characters.
From Shrek’s swamp to SpongeBob’s undersea hometown, every corner of Universal Kids Resort is crafted to spark imagination and invite play.
“Universal Kids Resort embodies the spirit of igniting thrill 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 experience begins at the Isle of Curiosity, a whimsical gateway where kids can meet Gabby from DreamWorks’ Gabby’s Dollhouse and dance along at a pawsome party. From there, families can venture into DreamWorks’ Shrek’s Swamp, a waterlogged playground filled with interactive areas like Swamp Rompin’ Stomp and Swamp Splash & Smash, along with meet-and-greets with Shrek and Fiona.
In DreamWorks’ Puss in Boots Del Mar, guests can join the swashbuckling feline hero and his friends for carnival games and playful encounters. Over at Illumination’s Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club, the Yellow and Purple Minions go head-to-head in a splash-filled showdown that promises equal parts laughter and chaos.
For little explorers with a sense of adventure, Jurassic World Adventure Camp offers hands-on fun — from meeting a baby dinosaur to climbing the Lookout Towers play area for a Pteranodon’s-eye view.
“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.
The park will also include sensory gardens that offer peaceful spaces for families to reset amid the action. Designed around touch, sound, and color, these areas provide a calming balance to the day’s excitement.
Music and sparkle take center stage at DreamWorks’ TrollsFest, where Poppy, Branch, and friends host a glittering celebration complete with interactive play zones. Then it’s time to dive into Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom, where SpongeBob, Patrick, and Sandy welcome visitors to a seaside world of playful splashing and “nautical nonsense.”
When it’s time to unwind, families can stay just steps from the park at the 300-room Universal Kids Resort Hotel. The brightly themed hotel will serve as both a place to relax and the main entrance to the resort.
Universal says more details on attractions, entertainment, food, and merchandise will be revealed as opening day approaches. For updates, families can visit UniversalKidsResort.com.
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(Artist Conceptual Renderings Courtesy Universal Destinations & Experiences)
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