Get ready for a brand new family adventure! Universal Kids Resort is set to open its doors on July 1, 2026, in Frisco, Texas, marking Universal’s first-ever theme park in the U.S. outside of Florida or California. This resort is meticulously crafted for families with toddlers through elementary school-aged children, ensuring an experience where the whole family can play together, not just watch from the sidelines.
Designed for Kids, Enjoyed by All
Every detail at Universal Kids Resort, from the vibrant colors to the whimsical architecture, is designed to make children feel like this world was built just for them. The original vision, sketched by creative director Jimmy Pickering, brings a storybook feel to every corner of the park.
A Park with a Kid-Friendly Rhythm
While Universal is known for big thrills, this new resort redefines the experience by putting kids at the forefront. The park’s layout, ride heights, and attractions are all scaled for younger visitors, creating a relaxed pace that encourages more play and fewer meltdowns, leading to bigger smiles for everyone.
Engaging Character Connections
At Universal Kids Resort, character interactions are designed to be personal and memorable. Children can connect with their favorite characters at their level, creating genuine moments of joy and laughter. Imagine SpongeBob, Patrick, and Squidward playing in Bikini Bottom, or Puss in Boots, Mama Luna, and Perrito greeting guests after a show at DreamWorks’ Puss in Boots Del Mar. You might even find Shrek and Fiona in their cozy swamp, or Poppy causing a confetti explosion at TrollsFest!
Attractions for Little Thrill-Seekers (and their Parents!)
The rides at Universal Kids Resort are full-fledged attractions tailored for kids to experience thrills on their own scale, while still being fun for parents to join in. Look forward to attractions like in Jurassic World Adventure Camp where guests can experience the thrills of Jurassic World: Cretaceous Coaster, Mr. DNA’s Double Helix Spin, and Pteranodrop.
Other exciting attractions include Rhonda’s TrollsFest Express and Hair in the Clouds at DreamWorks’ TrollsFest, and Jellyfish Fields Jamboree, Barnacle Bus, and Mrs. Puff’s Boating School in Bikini Bottom. Even a gentle raft ride like Bello Bay Cruise in the Minions land offers comedic rivalry and fun.
Play Spaces for Every Child
Free play zones are strategically placed throughout the resort, perfect for expending energy and fostering imaginative play. Highlights include Shrek’s Swamp Splash & Smash, Jurassic World Lookout Towers, Paddock Play, Poppy’s Playland, and Trolls Critter Crawl. These vibrant spaces allow children to roam and explore, giving parents a chance to recharge in comfort.
Dance, Music, and Movement
If your child loves to move and groove, this park will feel like their natural habitat. Start mornings with Gabby’s Cat-Tastic Dance Party! in the Isle of Curiosity, or get your cardio in at the King Trollex Techno Dance Party in TrollsFest. Play Ambassadors will also be on hand, ready to spark mini-games, bubble fun, and impromptu dance parties throughout the day.
Splashing Fun for Everyone
Universal Kids Resort embraces the joy of water play. In Illumination’s Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club, expect unpredictable, water-soaked fun as Yellow Minions attempt to rein in their Purple counterparts. Bikini Bottom offers big, bubbly water play, while Shrek’s Swamp provides gentler splash moments. And don't worry about getting soaked—full-size dryers are available for a quick refresh!
Retail That Continues the Story
The shops at Universal Kids Resort are an extension of the immersive storytelling. Step into Gabby’s Dollhouse store, get
troll-ified at Troll-ify Me! in TrollsFest, and discover unique snacks that double as souvenirs, like the Shrekzel or Ube Popcorn.
Delicious Dining for All Tastes
Dining at the resort caters to every family member, from selective eaters to adventurous palates. The Universal Kids Resort Café, located near the entrance, offers an oasis for parents with real espresso, fresh pastries, and sandwiches. Each land also brings its own unique culinary flavor, such as Latin-inspired dishes in Puss in Boots Del Mar, colorful treats in TrollsFest, and the instantly iconic Ube Mac and Cheese in Bello Bay Bites.
Comfort and Recharge Zones
This park is designed with comfort in mind. You'll find ample shade, strategic seating, and tranquil rest zones throughout TrollsFest, Puss in Boots Del Mar, and Jurassic World Adventure Camp. These calm spaces, with their soft landscaping and inviting ambiance, are perfect for families to pause, reset, and reconnect.
The Universal Kids Resort Hotel: Your Home Away From Home
The Universal Kids Resort Hotel, with its 300 bright and fun rooms, is just steps from the park entrance. This proximity allows for convenient midday breaks and ensures the vibrant energy of the theme park extends to your accommodation.
The hotel's pool area is a highlight, offering a refreshing escape from the Texas heat. With plenty of loungers, shady spots, and spacious areas, it's designed for both kids to splash to their heart's content and adults to relax.
Staying at the Universal Kids Resort Hotel keeps everything close and simple, perfectly aligning with how families truly travel. Wake up and step right into the action, take a breather when needed, and end your day pleasantly tired, already dreaming of tomorrow's adventures. The thoughtful design of the park prioritizes manageability, ensuring families can move, breathe, play, and discover without feeling overwhelmed.
The opening of Universal Kids Resort on July 1, 2026, is an exciting milestone for family travel. We at CCTC are confident this resort will be a fantastic addition to your family's travel radar.
Are you picturing your family's first coaster ride, dance party, or character interaction at Universal Kids Resort? Our expert advisors specialize in helping families plan unforgettable vacations. Reach out to your CCTC advisor to start planning your visit and make those dreams a reality!
Plan this trip with a specialist
Ready to Start Planning?
Our travel advisors are here to make your dream vacation a reality -- all included when you work with us.
Get a Quote
