Nickelodeon-Themed Universal Park Announced for 2026

A Universal theme park is set to open in 2026 and will feature rides, restaurants, and attractions, as well as seven themed lands inspired by DreamWorks, Nickelodeon, Jurassic World, and more.

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

Universal Kids Resort Reveals Full Lineup of Rides, Restaurants, and Attractions for 2026 Opening

Imagine stepping into a world where every corner sparks curiosity, every ride tells a story, and every bite of food feels like part of an adventure. Families visiting the new Universal Kids Resort will soon experience just that—but what makes this park more than just another theme park? The answer lies in how it’s designed not for thrill-seekers, but for the wonder of children and their families.

From whimsical play zones to high-flying adventures, Universal’s newest addition promises an immersive experience unlike anything seen in regional parks across the country. But what exactly will guests find when the gates open in 2026?

A vibrant, colorful building with a large "UNIVERSAL" sign resembles something you'd find at a Disney theme park. Multicolored geometric shapes decorate the facade. People gather at the entrance while birds soar in the clear blue sky above, with trees visible to the right. — Credit: Universal

Seven Lands of Family Fun

Universal Kids Resort will feature seven distinct lands, each inspired by beloved Universal and DreamWorks characters. The park is designed with children in mind, from kid-height signage to bold colors that invite exploration. Molly Murphy, president of Universal Creative, explained, “Every detail was designed through a child’s eyes. We leaned into that childlike curiosity and invited play to be our guide.”

A colorful theme park ride passes by a whimsical gingerbread house facade featuring cartoon ogre characters, surrounded by lush trees, purple flowers, and vibrant landscaping under a sunny sky showing Shrek and characters inside of Universal Kids Resort. — Credit: Universal Kids Resort

DreamWorks’ Shrek Swamp

Families can step into the world of Shrek and Fiona in Shrek and Fiona’s Happily Ogre After, a story-driven attraction that brings the characters’ love story to life. Guests can enjoy unique snacks like the “Shrekzel” at Swamp Snacks and shop for themed merchandise at Triplets Treasures. Two interactive play areas let kids splash and stomp through the swamp, and meet-and-greets with Shrek and Fiona are included.

A lively outdoor stage show features colorful performers, costumed animals playing instruments, and a cheering audience of children and adults seated on benches under a shaded pavilion with Puss in Boots inside Universal Kids Resort. — Credit: Universal Kids Resort

Puss in Boots Del Mar

Adventure awaits in Puss in Boots Del Mar, where the Swings over Del Mar ride lifts guests high into the air, and a whimsical puppet show entertains visitors. Meet-and-greets with Puss in Boots, Mama Luna, and Perrito make the experience memorable, while food lovers can enjoy Comidas y Leche and sweet treats at Tienda de Dulces. Sensory gardens throughout the park offer children a chance to pause and reset.

Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club

At Bello Bay Club, guests can join a “spirited water battle,” choosing sides as yellow or purple minions. Rides include the Bello Bay Cruise and Bello Bay Golf Cart Derby, while Bello Bay Bites serves minion-themed meals. Families can shop at Bello Bay Boutique and snap photos with the mischievous Minions.

Artist rendering of a theme park with a colorful spinning tower ride in the foreground, several people admiring it, and a roller coaster with riders in the background, surrounded by greenery, showing Jurassic World inside of a new Universal theme park coming soon. — Credit: Universal

Jurassic World Adventure Camp

Dinosaur lovers will delight in Jurassic World Adventure Camp, where guests can search for a missing Ankylosaurus on Jurassic World: Cretaceous Coaster, spin through twists on Mr. DNA’s Double Helix Spin, or soar above the park on Pterandodrop.

Dining is available at Jurassic World Canteen, merchandise at Jurassic World Outfitters, and kids can meet a newly hatched dinosaur or explore Paddock Play and Look Out Towers.

TrollsFest

Music, dancing, and color fill TrollsFest, featuring an indoor dance party and Rhonda’s TrollsFest Express ride. Guests can see the area from above on Hair in the Clouds, enjoy snacks at Troll Eatz, ice cream at BroZone Cones, or get a troll-inspired makeover at Sparkle Shine Glitter Glow. Merchandise and interactive play areas make this a full-family experience.

SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom

In Bikini Bottom, visitors can bounce through Jellyfish Fields Jamboree, ride the Barnacle Bus, blast water at Bobbing Barrels, and navigate Mrs. Puff’s Boating School course. Goofy Goober’s provides themed food, while Barg-N-Mart offers merchandise. Meet SpongeBob, Patrick Star, and Sandy Cheeks for unforgettable photo moments.

Isle of Curiosity

Serving as the park’s gateway, Isle of Curiosity features Gabby’s Cat-Tastic Dance Party with DreamWorks’ Gabby’s Dollhouse, cupcakes at Cakey’s Cupcakes, meals at Universal Kids Resort Cafe, and shopping at the Universal Kids Resort Store.

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 Hotel

The resort’s hotel will sleep up to five or six guests per room and include Curiosity Cafe for quick meals, a full-service bar, outdoor pool, fitness room, and a game room. The hotel’s design continues the child-centric theme, ensuring that families have both comfort and fun just steps from the park gates.

By focusing on family-friendly experiences and attractions tailored for younger visitors, Universal Kids Resort promises a fresh take on theme parks in regional markets. This child-first approach could redefine what families expect from a day at a theme park, blending immersive storytelling, interactive play, and dining options that appeal to every age.