A Brand-New Kind of Theme Park Is Coming to Texas

Big things are happening in Frisco, Texas. Universal Kids Resort is an all-new theme park designed to inspire the unbridled creativity of kids through play, discovery, and imagination in a way that engages the whole family. Opening in 2026, the park will feature seven themed lands packed with rides, interactive play areas, and -- the part kids will be talking about for weeks -- character meet and greets. Here is a rundown of every character encounter heading to this exciting new destination.

Say "Hello!" (and "Ogre!") to Shrek and Fiona

First stop: the swamp. At DreamWorks' Shrek's Swamp, guests will be able to meet Shrek and Fiona and even take photos in their iconic onion carriage. It is charming, it is a little muddy (in the best way), and it is the kind of photo op that gets framed.

SpongeBob, Patrick, Squidward, and Sandy Are Ready

Are you ready, kids? At Bikini Bottom, kids can meet SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick Star, Squidward Tentacles, and Sandy Cheeks -- yes, Texas' very own Sandy Cheeks is in the mix! Whether grabbing a photo with a cheerful sea star or striking a pose with the world's most reluctant clarinet player, this land delivers the full Bikini Bottom experience.

Hang Out with the Minions at Bello Bay Club

The chaos is the fun here. At Illumination's Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club, the Yellow Minions attempt to rein in their Purple counterparts, leading to water-soaked fun. With a special Minions meet and greet and interactive play areas, there will be plenty of surprises. Translation: expect banana jokes, big laughs, and a very memorable photo.

A Baby Raptor Encounter at Jurassic World Adventure Camp

This one is for the dino lovers. At Jurassic World Adventure Camp, guests can meet a newly hatched baby raptor -- the kind of up-close encounter that turns any kid into a junior paleontologist on the spot.

The Glitteriest Meet and Greet in All of Troll Kingdom

Poppy would not have it any other way. At DreamWorks' TrollsFest, families can meet Poppy, Branch, and the rest of the DreamWorks Trolls gang at a glitter-filled meet and greet. The music is bumping, the energy is high, and glitter is basically guaranteed. Consider it a feature, not a bug.

A Swashbuckling Moment with Puss in Boots

The boots. The hat. The eyes. At DreamWorks' Puss in Boots Del Mar, guests can enjoy a character meet and greet and snap a photo with Puss in Boots and all his friends in a charming seaside village setting. It is the most dashing photo op in the park, and Puss in Boots absolutely knows it.

Mini-Sized Magic with Gabby and Friends

The adventure starts before even stepping foot in the park. Gabby from DreamWorks' Gabby's Dollhouse will appear in the Isle of Curiosity -- a whimsical gateway at the park's entrance -- for a meet and greet and dance party. Grab Pandy's hand, find the pinch, and get ready for a mini-sized meet and greet that is big on fun.

Plan the Trip

Universal Kids Resort is set to open in 2026 in Frisco, Texas, just about a 30-minute drive from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. Contact your Crazy Imagination Travel Advisor for ticket information, opening date announcements, and everything else needed to plan the perfect visit.