Universal Kids Resort, first kids park, opens July 1

Universal Parks & Resorts will open its first theme park designed specifically for young children on July 1 in Frisco, Texas. The new Universal Kids Resort marks a distinct departure from the company’s larger, thrill-ride-focused destinations, instead offering a 20-acre park built around interactive play and popular family-friendly franchises.

The resort, which was first announced in 2023, is geared primarily toward children ages 3 to 8, though officials say they expect it to appeal to the whole family. It will feature seven themed lands based on properties including Shrek, SpongeBob SquarePants, Minions, Jurassic World, Trolls, Puss in Boots, and Gabby’s Dollhouse. The experiences are described as “kid-sized,” emphasizing interactive elements like water blasters, bubble blowers, sidewalk chalk areas, and sensory gardens over traditional high-thrill attractions.

A key operational detail that distinguishes this park from Universal’s other resorts is its seasonal schedule. The park will not remain open year-round and will have multiple scheduled closure dates, primarily during slower travel periods in November, December, and January. Officials noted that additional closure dates...