Top Things Kids and Grown-Ups Can Look Forward to at Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas. The countdown is almost over for one of the most anticipated family theme park openings in years. On July 1, 2026, Universal Kids Resort will officially welcome guests to an entirely new kind of Universal experience in Frisco, Texas. Designed specifically for families with young children, this groundbreaking destination marks Universal’s first U.S. theme park built outside of Florida or California. While the resort is clearly designed with kids in mind, don’t mistake it for a “kids-only” experience. Universal has created a fully immersive theme park where parents, grandparents, and children can experience adventures together, making memories around every corner.
Universal Kids Resort Opens July 1
Universal Kids Resort is unlike anything Universal has built before. Created for families with toddlers through elementary-aged children, the park scales everything—from attractions and buildings to character interactions and play areas—to the perspective of a child.
According to Creative Director Jimmy Pickering, the goal was simple: create a park for the entire family.
The result is a colorful, storybook-inspired destination where children instantly feel like they belong, while parents enjoy a more manageable and relaxed theme park experience.
Kid-Friendly Design Makes a Big Difference
One of the most unique aspects of Universal Kids Resort is how intentionally it has been designed around young guests.
Instead of simply shrinking down rides, Universal has reimagined the entire park experience. Pathways, attractions, play areas, and experiences are designed to be approachable and less overwhelming for children while remaining engaging for adults.
The park’s slower pace allows for more exploration, more play, and fewer stressful moments for families.
Character Encounters Take Center Stage
Meeting favorite characters will be one of the biggest highlights throughout the park.
Guests can interact with:
- SpongeBob SquarePants
- Patrick Star
- Squidward
- Sandy Cheeks
- Shrek and Fiona
- Puss in Boots
- Perrito
- Mama Luna
- Poppy from Trolls
- Minions
- Gabby and friends from Gabby’s Dollhouse
Rather than quick photo opportunities, many of these interactions are designed to feel more personal and immersive, allowing children to connect with characters at their own level.
Attractions Built for Young Adventurers
While Universal is famous for thrill rides, Universal Kids Resort focuses on age-appropriate adventures that still feel exciting.
Highlights include:
Jurassic World Adventure Camp
- Jurassic World: Cretaceous Coaster
- Mr. DNA’s Double Helix Spin
- Pteranodrop
DreamWorks’ TrollsFest
- Rhonda’s TrollsFest Express
- Hair in the Clouds
SpongeBob SquarePants’ Bikini Bottom
- Jellyfish Fields Jamboree
- Barnacle Bus
- Mrs. Puff’s Boating School
Illumination’s Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club
- Bello Bay Cruise
These attractions offer many children their first theme park “thrill ride” experiences while allowing parents to share in the excitement.
Play Areas Around Every Corner
Universal Kids Resort embraces the idea that sometimes kids simply want to play.
Interactive areas include:
- Shrek’s Swamp Splash & Smash
- Shrek’s Swamp Rompin’ Stomp
- Jurassic World Lookout Towers
- Paddock Play
- Poppy’s Playland
- Trolls Critter Crawl
Every themed land includes opportunities for free play, climbing, exploration, and imagination.
Music, Dancing and Nonstop Energy
Families can expect plenty of movement throughout the day.
Entertainment offerings include:
- Gabby’s Cat-Tastic Dance Party
- King Trollex Techno Dance Party
- Surprise dance parties
- Bubble experiences
- Interactive games hosted by Play Ambassadors
These experiences help keep kids engaged between attractions and encourage participation rather than passive entertainment.
Water Play Equals Happy Kids
Universal clearly understands one important family vacation truth: kids love getting wet.
Several lands feature splash zones and interactive water play experiences.
Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club delivers chaotic splash-filled fun, while Bikini Bottom embraces SpongeBob-style water play. Shrek’s Swamp offers gentler water experiences for younger guests.
And yes—there are large drying stations available afterward.
Themed Shops Extend the Story
Retail experiences at Universal Kids Resort are designed as attractions themselves.
Popular locations include:
- Gabby’s Dollhouse Store
- Troll-ify Me!
- Character-themed shopping experiences throughout the park
Rather than traditional gift shops, these spaces continue the storytelling while allowing children to take part of their adventure home.
Food for Kids and Parents
Universal has also put considerable thought into dining.
While younger guests will find plenty of kid-friendly favorites, adults aren’t forgotten.
The Universal Kids Resort Café near the entrance offers:
- Espresso drinks
- Fresh pastries
- Sandwiches
- Parent-friendly meal options
Each land also features themed snacks and treats, including:
- Shrekzel
- BroZone Berry Soft Serve
- Ube Popcorn
- Ube Mac and Cheese
- Various character-inspired desserts and beverages
Stay Close at Universal Kids Resort Hotel
Located just steps from the front gate, the 300-room Universal Kids Resort Hotel allows families to maximize their vacation experience.
Features include:
- Family-friendly accommodations
- Themed environments
- Resort-style pool
- Easy access to the theme park
- Convenient midday breaks
The hotel extends the theme park experience while giving families a comfortable place to recharge.
A New Kind of Universal Experience
What makes Universal Kids Resort special isn’t simply the attractions or characters—it’s the philosophy behind the entire project.
Everything has been designed to make family vacations easier, more manageable, and more enjoyable for guests with younger children.
By focusing on accessibility, interactivity, imagination, and shared experiences, Universal appears poised to create a destination unlike any other in its portfolio.
After seeing the incredible attention to detail going into every land, attraction, play space, and character experience, it’s easy to understand why families are already counting down to July 1, 2026. Universal Kids Resort isn’t simply a smaller version of a traditional theme park—it’s an entirely new approach to family entertainment built around the way children experience the world. Whether your family is excited for Jurassic World adventures, Trolls dance parties, SpongeBob shenanigans, or unforgettable character moments, Universal Kids Resort looks ready to deliver a magical experience that kids will remember for years to come.
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