Universal unveils details about kids’ resort in Texas

From Shrek’s swamp to dinosaurs a la “Jurassic World,” young guests will have plenty to do at the Universal Kids Resort when it opens next year in Frisco, Texas. 

Universal on Friday released details about the new park’s themed lands and its 300-room hotel.

The colorful hotel will also act as the park entrance. Guests will find a central hub with shady lawns and interactive play areas. It will also be a character meet-and-greet spot. In a themed retail experience off the hub, guests can meet Gabby from Netflix series “Gabby’s Dollhouse.”

There will be a variety of themed experiences throughout the park, all designed for families with young children.

At Shrek’s swamp, kids can play on a themed playground “built personally by Shrek,” Universal said in a release.

There will also be a land themed to “SpongeBob SquarePants.” There, the Nickelodeon cartoon’s protagonist — along with Patrick, Sandy Cheeks and Squidward — will appear, showing guests around their neighborhood. Guests can earn a boating license and relax on a beach that features floating bubbles.

A colorful 300-room hotel will be at the entrance to the Universal Kids Resort. Photo Credit: Universal Destinations & Experiences

Illumination’s Minions will also carve out their own piece of the park. They’re taking over “a peaceful vacation retreat,” Universal said.

“When Yellow Minions attempt to rein in their Purple counterparts, it leads to a wave of unpredictable, water-soaked fun,” Universal said. Guests can sit back and watch or take part in the chaos.

Dinosaurs will roam the earth at a Jurassic World-themed adventure. Universal said guests will encounter dinosaurs “in uniquely exciting and interactive ways.”

DreamWorks’ Trolls will invite guests to their music festival, where they can sing with Poppy, Branch and their Troll gang.

The park will also feature a “kitty adoption drive,” Universal said, hosted by DreamWorks’ Puss in Boots, Kitty Softpaws and Perrito. That area will include sideshow games, festive food and rides, as well as a sensory garden.

“It’s an amazing opportunity to bring these iconic stories to life for kids and families to experience, interact with and play together,” said Sarah Gibbon, vice president and executive producer of Universal Creative. “At each point, we considered how we could design a place especially for kids where they could explore, imagine and adventure with their families and friends. They’ll be able to do all this while being fully immersed in some of their favorite stories — ones full of curiosity, laughter and joy.”