Universal Kids Resort, the new theme park designed specifically for younger children, has unveiled its full lineup of seven themed worlds. Located north of Dallas, the resort promises a unique experience tailored to ignite imagination and encourage play for its target audience. This marks Universal's first park focusing on a particular age group.
Randolph Borden, senior show producer for Universal Kids Resort, emphasized that the park is designed to make young children feel immediately at home. He stated, "This is a park that young kids are going to know immediately is for them." The resort aims to offer familiar Universal themes through a fresh lens, crafted specifically for kids.
Key Takeaways
- Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas, will feature seven distinct themed worlds.
- The park is Universal's first to focus specifically on young children and families.
- Themes include Minions, Shrek, SpongeBob SquarePants, Jurassic World, and Trolls.
- Each land offers unique rides, play areas, character meet-and-greets, and dining options.
Exploring the Isle of Curiosity and DreamWorks Favorites
The journey begins at the Isle of Curiosity, serving as the park's central hub. This area features DreamWorks' Gabby's Dollhouse, offering an immersive retail experience. Children can meet their favorite characters from the show here.
Dining options within the Isle of Curiosity include the Universal Kids Resort Café, which offers breakfast, snack packs, and all-day pastries. Guests can also enjoy treats from Cakey’s Cupcakes. A highlight for many will be Gabby’s Cat-Tastic Dance Party!, where kids can dance alongside Gabby herself.
Did You Know?
Universal Kids Resort is the first Universal park to specifically target the younger demographic, offering a tailored experience distinct from its larger, more thrill-focused counterparts.
Shrek's Swamp: A Happily Ogre After Adventure
Stepping into Shrek's Swamp, visitors will find a play area designed to resemble the ogre's own home. This land features the ride Shrek & Fiona’s Happily Ogre After, which Shrek reportedly created for his triplets to tell the story of his romance with Fiona. The ride offers a narrative journey through their love story.
The swamp also includes both dry and wet play areas. Kids can enjoy Shrek’s Swamp Rompin’ Stomp and Shrek’s Swamp Splash & Smash. Character meet-and-greets with Shrek and Fiona are available, along with themed snacks from Swamp Snacks and merchandise from Triplets Treasures.
Underwater Fun and Minion Mayhem
The vibrant world of SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom invites families to explore its depths. One of the main attractions is Jellyfish Fields Jamboree, a ride where children float high above coral on pink jellyfish. Another interactive ride, Bobbing Barrels, allows kids to spin and blast water at opponents, with help from characters like Patrick and Sandy.
Other attractions in Bikini Bottom include the Barnacle Bus, Mrs. Puff’s Boating School, and the Pineapple Paradise wet play area. Guests can meet SpongeBob and friends, and capture photos with Larry the Lobster at Mussel Beach.
A New Focus for Universal
While Universal Creative has integrated family-friendly elements into its parks for decades, this new resort in Frisco represents a dedicated effort to craft an entire destination with the specific needs and interests of young children in mind. This approach allows for deeper immersion in beloved franchises through a child's perspective.
Minions Vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club
More water-based excitement awaits at the Minions Bello Bay Club. This area features a splash zone on the Bello Bay Cruise, offering refreshing fun for all ages. The Bello Bay Golf Cart Derby provides a unique racing experience. Of course, a Minion meet-and-greet is also part of the fun, allowing visitors to interact with the popular yellow characters.
Adventure Camps and TrollsFest Celebration
For those seeking adventure, the Jurassic World Adventure Camp offers several thrilling experiences. The Jurassic World: Cretaceous Coaster provides a ride through a prehistoric landscape. Younger explorers can enjoy Mr. DNA’s Double Helix Spin and the Pteranodrop ride. The Paddock Play area includes Jurassic World Lookout Towers, offering elevated views.
"It is a world where kids are encouraged to play, to use their imagination, to pique curiosity, and to find fun ways to explore," said Randolph Borden.
TrollsFest: Music, Dance, and Sensory Delights
The colorful world of TrollsFest brings Poppy, Branch, and their friends to life with vibrant music, singing, and dancing. Attractions include Rhonda’s TrollsFest Express, a charming ride through the Trolls' world, and the Hair in the Clouds ride. Visitors can join the King Trollex Techno Dance Party or explore Poppy’s Playland. The Trolls Critter Crawl and a vibrant Sensory Garden offer additional engaging experiences.
- Rhonda’s TrollsFest Express: A musical journey.
- Hair in the Clouds: A whimsical ride experience.
- King Trollex Techno Dance Party: High-energy dance fun.
- Poppy’s Playland: Interactive play area.
- Trolls Critter Crawl: Explore with Trolls critters.
- Sensory Garden: A vibrant, engaging space.
Puss in Boots Del Mar: A Feline Fiesta
The final themed world is Puss in Boots Del Mar, inspired by the adventurous feline. This land features a flying carousel called Swings Over Del Mar, offering a gentle aerial ride. Character meet-and-greets provide opportunities to interact with Puss in Boots and other characters from his world.
Carnival-style areas like Barriles de Leche and El Gato’s Meow add to the festive atmosphere, providing games and entertainment. The resort aims to provide a diverse range of experiences, ensuring there is something for every young visitor.
The Universal Kids Resort is set to open, bringing a new dimension to family entertainment north of Dallas. The park's focus on imaginative play and tailored experiences for children positions it as a significant new destination in the leisure industry.
