Outside the Disney BubbleUniversal Studios

Universal Park To Bring Out New IPs, Including Major Nickelodeon Characters

SpongeBob, Jurassic World, Shrek and More

A new Universal park is making its way to Texas in 2026, and the theme park giant has announced some pretty exciting news.

A colorful hotel with a bold, modern design featuring square and circular windows, bright panels in orange, green, yellow, and pink, with “UNIVERSAL” on the roof, and people gathered outside in Texas.
Credit: Universal

Universal Kids Resort Teases Full List of Attractions, Dining, and Rides for 2026

Close your eyes and imagine a place where toddlers’ laughter echoes through colorful lands, where teens get swept up in whimsical adventures, and where parents can relax knowing every corner is designed with their children in mind. That’s the vision Universal has for its new kids-focused resort—but what will this park actually look like when it opens?

Universal Kids Resort, opening in 2026, promises more than just rides and shows—it’s a full family immersion into some of Universal and DreamWorks’ most beloved worlds. From interactive play areas to themed eateries, every detail is designed to spark curiosity and delight for families visiting the Frisco, Texas location.

A colorful collage features animated characters like Minions, Donkey, Shrek, Trolls, and others surrounding the Universal Kids Resort logo on four bright, patterned backgrounds featuring IPs from Universal.
Credit: Universal

Seven Lands, Endless Exploration

The park is divided into seven distinct lands, each based on popular Universal and DreamWorks properties. Molly Murphy, president of Universal Creative, shared that the team approached design “through a child’s eyes,” incorporating playful colors, kid-friendly signage, and interactive experiences that encourage exploration and learning.

Shrek Swamp

Step into Shrek and Fiona’s Happily Ogre After, where families can follow the story of the iconic couple. Guests will find Swamp Snacks, serving Shrek-themed treats like the “Shrekzel,” and Triplets Treasures, selling apparel and plush toys. Two interactive play areas let kids splash and stomp to their heart’s content, and Shrek and Fiona will make meet-and-greet appearances throughout the day.

Puss in Boots Del Mar

Thrill-seekers can enjoy Swings over Del Mar, soar through a puppet show featuring Puss in Boots, and meet beloved characters like Mama Luna and Perrito. Dining options include Comidas y Leche for savory meals and Tienda de Dulces for sweets, while nearby sensory gardens allow children to take a break and recharge.

Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club

Families can join a playful water fight at Bello Bay Club, choosing sides as yellow or purple minions. The area also features Bello Bay Cruise, Bello Bay Golf Cart Derby, minion-themed dining at Bello Bay Bites, and merchandise at Bello Bay Boutique. Of course, the Minions themselves will be on hand for meet-and-greets.

Artist’s rendering of a vibrant amusement park with a colorful spinning ride on the left, a looping roller coaster above, lush greenery, and people exploring and looking up in excitement in the foreground at this new Jurassic World themed land coming soon to this Universal park.
Credit: Universal Kids Resort

Jurassic World Adventure Camp

Adventure awaits in Jurassic World Adventure Camp, where kids can search for a missing Ankylosaurus on Jurassic World: Cretaceous Coaster, twist through Mr. DNA’s Double Helix Spin, or soar above the park on Pterandodrop. Dining is available at Jurassic World Canteen, gear at Jurassic World Outfitters, and interactive experiences include meeting a newly hatched dinosaur or playing at Paddock Play and Look Out Towers.

TrollsFest

Music and dancing come alive at TrollsFest, featuring an indoor amphitheater, Rhonda’s TrollsFest Express, and views from Hair in the Clouds. Guests can snack at Troll Eatz, enjoy ice cream at BroZone Cones, or get a troll-inspired makeover at Sparkle Shine Glitter Glow. Two interactive play areas and Mr. Dinkles’ Market round out the land.

Illustration of a colorful theme park area with a Spongebob Squarepants-themed ride, families walking, children playing, and bright decorations under a sunny sky. Trees and fun structures fill the lively scene at this Universal Kids Resort.
Credit: Universal Kids Resort

SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom

Themed rides like Jellyfish Fields Jamboree, Barnacle Bus, Bobbing Barrels, and Mrs. Puff’s Boating School provide playful adventures for kids of all ages. Guests can grab meals at Goofy Goober’s, shop at Barg-N-Mart, and meet SpongeBob, Patrick, and Sandy in character appearances throughout the day.

Isle of Curiosity

The park’s gateway, Isle of Curiosity, invites families to Gabby’s Cat-Tastic Dance Party, enjoy cupcakes at Cakey’s Cupcakes, dine at Universal Kids Resort Cafe, and shop at the Universal Kids Resort Store, ensuring a welcoming start to the day.

A split image shows a family smiling in front of the Universal globe at Universal Studios and a couple taking a selfie in front of Cinderella’s Castle at a Disney theme park. Both groups appear happy and excited.
Credit: Universal / Disney

Universal Kids Resort Hotel

The on-site hotel will sleep five to six guests per room and include Curiosity Cafe for casual meals, a full-service bar, a game room, fitness room, and outdoor pool. Designed with families in mind, the hotel extends the park’s playful, child-first approach to overnight stays.

By focusing entirely on families with young children, Universal Kids Resort is positioning itself as a new standard in regional theme parks. Its blend of storytelling, interactive play, character experiences, and family-friendly dining promises to create lasting memories for parents and kids alike—setting a potential blueprint for the future of family entertainment.

Emmanuel Detres

Since first stepping inside the Magic Kingdom at nine years old, I knew I was destined to be a theme Park enthusiast. Although I consider myself a theme Park junkie, I still have much to learn and discover about Disney. Universal Orlando Resort has my heart; being an Annual Passholder means visiting my favorite places on Earth when possible! When I’m not writing about Disney, Universal, or entertainment news, you’ll find me cruising on my motorcycle, hiking throughout my local metro parks, or spending quality time with my girlfriend, family, or friends.

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