Universal Expands into Texas with Child-Centered Theme Park Project
Universal Destinations & Experiences is developing a new theme park in Frisco, Texas, expected to open in 2026. The project, titled Universal Kids Resort, will focus on families with young children and is being described as a smaller-scale alternative to the company’s existing large entertainment complexes. The new development is a step toward more localized attractions that are aimed at regional visitors instead of international tourists. These attractions will focus on play-based learning and exploration instead of high-intensity rides.
The park's design is more about interaction and creativity than about showing off. According to Universal’s official statements, the design will prioritize accessibility and child-friendly sensory experiences. The project is shown as a place where kids can interact with characters and settings they know through hands-on activities. Unlike traditional amusement parks, this one emphasizes active play and physical engagement rather than passive viewing or large-scale rides.
The park will have seven different areas, each based on a popular family entertainment world that kids and adults will know. These are:
- Shrek’s Swamp – a nature-themed play area featuring characters from the Shrek films.
- Puss in Boots Del Mar – carnival-style games and activities inspired by Puss in Boots.
- Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club – a water-play zone centered on the Minions series.
- Jurassic World Adventure Camp – climbing areas and structures inspired by Jurassic World.
- TrollsFest – a colorful space themed around Trolls.
- SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom – a seaside-style playground based on the Nickelodeon show.
- Isle of Curiosity – the entrance area, connected to Gabby’s Dollhouse.
There will also be sensory gardens in other parts of the park where people can do quieter, less stimulating activities. These areas are meant to help kids calm down after playing hard by giving them textures, colors, and sounds that are related to nature. To get people to interact, park staff will watch over both planned and unplanned activities, like drawing or playing in the water. There will also be a hotel next to the park where you can stay.
The project underlines a broader trend in U.S. tourism: a shift toward regional, family-centered destinations. Frisco has seen consistent investment in leisure and entertainment projects in recent years, and the Universal Kids Resort adds to that trajectory. Once operational, it is expected to become one of several new attractions contributing to North Texas’s growing role as a domestic tourism hub.