Texas to Welcome Child-Focused Universal Theme Park in 2026

Universal Destinations & Experiences is preparing to launch a new Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas, with the opening scheduled for 2026. The development is set to span about 32 acres and will feature a children-focused theme park together with a hotel offering around 300 rooms. The resort’s layout aims to feel more compact than typical major theme parks, giving families a setting that is easier to navigate. According to company statements, the project targets families with children under ten and emphasizes a simplified layout and structured park flow.

The park will consist of seven themed areas and their main attractions, including:

• Shrek’s Swamp: Story-focused ride, interactive play areas, character appearances.
• Jurassic World Adventure Camp: Mini coaster, observation towers, dinosaur-themed activities.
• Minions vs. Minions Bello Bay Club: Water-based games, small rides, themed merchandise.
• SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom: Gentle rides, water cannon attractions, boating school, character encounters.
• TrollsFest: Short-format shows, interactive dance sessions, festival-style rides, photo opportunities.
• Puss in Boots Del Mar: Puppet shows, small rides, themed shops, meet-and-greet sessions.
• Isle of Curiosity (Gabby’s Dollhouse): Dance party, cupcake café, sensory play areas, merchandise options.

The resort's design is compact, allowing for easy movement without long walks. Children can easily move from one themed area to another, minimizing downtime. Most of the attractions are built with younger visitors in mind, leaning toward gentle, organized experiences instead of high-intensity rides. The park has areas designated for character meet-and-greets and simple games, allowing families to enjoy shorter visits and still visit several different areas in one outing.

The hotel's accommodations are designed with families in mind, featuring options like bunk beds and suite-style arrangements. The property also boasts a pool, a compact gaming area, and convenient dining options. Sensory gardens offer outdoor areas designed for relaxation and peaceful pursuits. They give families a place to unwind or help children channel their energy, all while staying within the park's boundaries.

Universal Kids Resort signals a new direction in theme park design, one that prioritizes age-appropriate experiences. For those on the move, this new development opens up another avenue for family get-togethers, especially if there are little ones in tow. The new venue's debut could reshape how families in the Dallas-Fort Worth area plan their getaways. It's designed specifically for younger audiences, and its opening signals a shift toward more focused, smaller-scale entertainment options.