Home » Theme Parks » Universal Studios » Universal Orlando

Mark Your Calendars: Universal Announces Official Opening Date for New Theme Park

in Universal Orlando

Posted on by Emmanuel Detres Leave a comment
An illustrated aerial view of a Universal theme park with a large Texas state flag in the foreground, prominently centered over the brightly lit park area inside of Texas, where the new Universal theme park will go.

Credit: Inside The Magic

Another brand-new Universal theme park is set to open in 2026, offering new experiences, lands, and rides for guests of all ages.

Four colorful panels display the Universal Kids Resort logos surrounded by animated characters like Minions, Trolls, and Shrek on a bright, geometric background, highlighting this exciting new Universal theme park in Texas.
Credit: Universal

Universal Theme Park To Open in 2026

Imagine stepping into a world where the only limit is your child’s imagination. Where every corner sparks joy, curiosity, and laughter. For families, this isn’t just a dream—it’s about to become reality in Texas. Universal Destinations & Experiences is pulling back the curtain on a monumental project that could redefine family-friendly theme parks in the U.S., and it’s not just any park. But what exactly makes this new development unlike anything Universal has done before?

A colorful Universal building in Texas features vibrant square and circular windows, a yellow canopy, and people gathered outside; trees and birds fill the bright theme park sky.
Credit: Universal

A Playground Built for Young Imaginations

Set to open in 2026 in Frisco, Texas, Universal Kids Resort is a bold departure from traditional theme parks. Rather than aiming for thrilling roller coasters or intense adrenaline experiences, this park is designed specifically for young children and their families. Universal Creative has emphasized interactive play, creativity, and storytelling, turning the park itself into a canvas for childhood imagination.

“We envisioned this park through the unbridled creativity of kids,” said Brian Robinson, Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer at Universal Creative. “Infinite imagination, curiosity, and free-spirited play were core to our design philosophies. It produced a park that’s pure joy and an absolute celebration of what it is to be a kid.”

From water blasters and bubble blowers to sidewalk chalk that lets kids literally draw their own worlds, every element encourages exploration. Multiple sensory gardens allow families to pause, reset, and connect in nature-inspired spaces, blending learning, play, and relaxation seamlessly.

Aerial view of a new Universal United Kingdom amusement park featuring a central lake surrounded by roller coasters, water rides, and various buildings. Pathways connect the attractions, and green spaces are interspersed throughout the park.
Credit: Universal Destinations and Experiences

The Magical Lands Awaiting Guests

While Universal previously teased the themed lands, the official names and experiences have now been revealed:

  • DreamWorks’ Shrek’s Swamp: Meet Shrek, Fiona, and their triplets, ride in Shrek’s onion carriage, and romp in Shrek’s Swamp Rompin’ Stomp or splash in Shrek’s Swamp Splash & Smash.

  • DreamWorks’ Puss in Boots Del Mar: Carnival games, interactive rides, and encounters with Puss, Mama Luna, and Perrito promise playful adventure.

  • Illumination’s Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club: Water-based fun inspired by the rivalry between Yellow and Purple Minions, including raft rides and meet-and-greets.

  • Jurassic World Adventure Camp: Meet newly-hatched baby dinosaurs, explore climbing rope bridges, and enjoy gentle coaster experiences in a dino-themed adventure.

  • DreamWorks’ TrollsFest: Glittery meet-and-greets with Poppy and Branch, plus interactive play areas and balloon rides that capture the essence of Trolls’ world.

  • Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom: Dive into Mussel Beach or explore Pineapple Paradise, complete with a water play area surrounding SpongeBob’s iconic pineapple home.

  • Isle of Curiosity: The whimsical park entrance features meet-and-greets with Gabby from DreamWorks’ Gabby’s Dollhouse, dance parties, and space to explore creativity.

Universal reveals more details about Universal Kids Resort in Texas. The park will feature 7 lands: – Shrek’s Swamp – Puss in Boots Del Mar – Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club – Jurassic World Adventure Camp – TrollsFest – SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom – Isle of Curiosity – @AshleyLCarter1 on X

“Universal Kids Resort embodies the spirit of igniting thrill that drives everything we create,” said Molly Murphy, President of Universal Creative. “It’s designed to bring our youngest guests and families together through play, creativity, and beloved characters and stories.”

The park’s Universal Kids Resort Hotel will serve as both a gateway and an extension of the park experience. With 300 colorful rooms located just steps from the entrance, families can immerse themselves fully in the imaginative worlds of their favorite characters without ever leaving the property.

The photo shows the iconic yellow archway entrance of Universal Studios Florida, featuring the park's globe logo, where fans disappointed by a hyped attraction still gather under a partly cloudy blue sky.
Credit: Sarah Larson, Inside the Magic

Why This Matters to Families and the Future of Universal Theme Parks

The creation of Universal Kids Resort signals a significant shift in the theme park industry: targeting regional markets with parks built specifically for young children. While most theme parks focus on blockbuster rides and teen or adult audiences, Universal is acknowledging that families with young children represent a powerful, underserved demographic. The interactive and immersive elements could set a new standard for kid-centric attractions nationwide.

It also reflects a broader trend of parks integrating mindfulness and play, ensuring spaces where children can rest, explore, and express themselves freely—a balance that’s increasingly important in today’s fast-paced digital world.

For Universal fans, this is not just an expansion of a brand—it’s a promise of experiences that will grow with their families, fostering memories that could last a lifetime.

Which land are you most excited to explore first at Universal Kids Resort? From Shrek’s swampy fun to SpongeBob’s underwater antics, there’s a world of adventure waiting just for kids.

in Universal Orlando

Tagged:Universal ParksUniversal Theme Parks

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.

Be the first to comment!