Universal Kids Resort opened Wednesday, July 1, 2026, in Frisco, Texas. It’s Universal Destinations & Experiences’ first-ever theme park built just for young kids ages 3 to 8.
The park marked the day with a celebration made for its target audience. Laila Lockhart Kraner, who voices Gabby in DreamWorks’ “Gabby’s Dollhouse,” emceed the event. Dozens of young recorder players performed the Universal theme song to kick things off.
Hundreds of kids then paraded alongside their favorite characters to the Isle of Curiosity. Choreographed dance moments celebrated the park’s brands. Confetti, daytime pyro, and a ribbon cutting with an oversized pair of children’s scissors capped the countdown.
“Today’s an exciting day for all kidkind,” said Page Thompson, President, New Ventures, Universal Destinations & Experiences. “Every aspect of this park was designed with kids in mind, and it’s amazing to see the smiles on their faces.”
Seven lands built around characters kids love
Three years in the making, the park features seven dedicated areas. Each celebrates a beloved story or character set.
- DreamWorks’ Shrek’s Swamp
- Jurassic World Adventure Camp
- Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom
- Illumination’s Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club
- DreamWorks’ TrollsFest
- DreamWorks’ Puss in Boots Del Mar
- The Isle of Curiosity, featuring DreamWorks’ Gabby’s Dollhouse
“Universal Kids Resort offers a completely unique experience,” said Molly Murphy, President, Universal Creative. She said the park “invites kids to splash, play, dance and laugh with some of their favorite characters.”
A 300-room hotel at the front gate
Universal Kids Resort Hotel sits at the park entrance. It offers 300 rooms with various layouts that sleep up to five or six guests. Family-friendly amenities and dining round out the stay.
Tickets and add-on experiences
Tickets, packages, and upgrades are on sale now at UniversalKidsResort.com. Options include 1-day and 2-day general admission tickets.
The Private VIP Experience adds a 4-hour guided walking tour for up to six guests, with priority access and reserved seating. Separate park admission is required. The Troll-ify Me! Experience delivers a glittery Trolls makeover themed to characters like Branch, Poppy, and Guy Diamond.
Groups can also book customizable programs, including birthday parties at the park. Each option is bookable now through the official site.
If you have young kids in the Dallas area, this one’s built for them. Plan around the seven lands, and check hotel availability early since the property runs just 300 rooms. Full details and booking are at Universal’s official announcement.
Related Articles
- Universal Kids Resort: Everything We Know
- Universal Kids Resort Hotel: What to Know
- Universal Kids Resort Sneak Peek Ahead of Opening
Source: Universal Destinations & Experiences official announcement, published July 1, 2026.
Discover more from Theme Park Shark
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
