Universal has spent the past several years dramatically expanding its presence in the theme park world. Instead of focusing solely on maintaining its existing parks, the company has invested heavily in new attractions, new lands, and even entirely new destinations.
Visitors have watched Universal introduce immersive environments and ambitious rides that bring major franchises to life. These projects have helped reshape the company’s role in the global theme park industry.
And now, Universal’s strategy extends beyond its traditional resort markets. New projects are appearing across the country, each designed for a different type of guest.
The newest updates come from one of Universal’s upcoming theme park developments, where the company has begun revealing attractions that will be part of the experience.
Epic Universe Changed the Game
The most visible example of Universal’s expansion strategy arrived in 2025 with the opening of Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort.
The new park introduced multiple themed lands based on major franchises. One area, Dark Universe, brings Universal’s legendary monsters into a fully immersive setting.
Another land invites visitors into the world of How to Train Your Dragon, recreating the Viking village of Berk for exploration.
Epic Universe also expanded the Wizarding World with a new environment centered on the Ministry of Magic.
All of these experiences connect through a large central hub that acts as the heart of the park.
Epic Universe quickly became one of the most significant theme park additions in years and demonstrated how far Universal is willing to go when building new experiences.
But while Epic Universe captured the spotlight, another Universal project has quietly been moving forward elsewhere.
Universal’s Brand New Expansions
Universal previously announced plans to build a new kids-focused resort in Texas. After the initial reveal, updates on the project slowed as attention shifted to Epic Universe.
For months, fans saw construction progress but received very few details about the attractions planned for the park.
Now Universal has started sharing more information.
The upcoming Universal Kids Resort will include seven themed areas inspired by popular characters and franchises.
The park will feature lands based on Shrek, Minions, SpongeBob SquarePants, Jurassic World, Trolls, Puss in Boots, and Gabby’s Dollhouse. Each land will focus on activities designed for younger visitors and families.
Until recently, however, the company had not revealed exactly what attractions those lands would contain.
Universal Reveals First Attraction Details
Universal Kids Resort recently shared new information on social media, offering a closer look at two of the park’s themed areas.
The announcement focused on Jurassic World Adventure Camp and SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom.
Both lands emphasize exploration, play, and interactive attractions tailored to young guests.
Exploring Jurassic World Adventure Camp
Jurassic World Adventure Camp encourages kids to learn and explore in dinosaur-themed environments.
One attraction will focus on the concept of dinosaur DNA and will lift riders above the land as they explore the area.
Young thrill-seekers will also find a family coaster known as the Cretaceous Coaster. Designed for younger riders, the coaster provides a gentle introduction to roller coaster thrills.
The land will also include a kid-friendly free-fall ride that offers a brief but exciting drop.
In addition to rides, the area will feature a playground where children can climb, explore, and interact with themed elements. Guests will also encounter baby velociraptors during their visit.
The goal of the land appears to be creating a fun and approachable version of the Jurassic World universe.
A Visit to Bikini Bottom
Another major themed area will bring the animated world of SpongeBob SquarePants to life.
The Bikini Bottom land will feature colorful attractions inspired by the show's underwater setting
Pineapple Paradise will serve as a splash pad built around SpongeBob’s famous pineapple home. The water play area will give kids a place to cool off while exploring the land.
Another attraction allows guests to ride a jelly angler through jellyfish-inspired scenery.
The area will also feature Jellyfish Fields Jamboree, continuing the jellyfish theme with vibrant visuals and playful elements.
Guests can also experience Bobbing Barrels, where riders spin around while spraying water at one another.
Another attraction, the Barnacle Bus, invites families to hop aboard a whimsical underwater vehicle.
Visitors will also have the chance to stop by Mrs. Puff’s boating school and meet SpongeBob himself.
After all the fun, guests can grab a sweet treat at Goofy Goobers, a location inspired by the show.
Looking Ahead to Opening Day
Universal’s latest announcements provide the first real look at what the Universal Kids Resort experience might feel like.
For a long time, the park remained mostly a mystery. Now, the first attractions are beginning to take shape.
The resort is expected to open later in 2026, which means Universal still has time to reveal details about the remaining lands.
If these early previews are indicative of the rest of the park, Universal Kids Resort could become a standout destination for younger theme park fans.
