Last week marked the grand opening of Universal Kids Resort, Universal Destinations & Experiences’ first-ever regional theme park in Frisco, Texas, specifically designed for young kids ages 3 – 8.
To celebrate the big day, the park hosted a celebration emceed by Laila Lockhart Kraner – who plays “Gabby” in DreamWorks’ “Gabby’s Dollhouse” – and kicked off with a special performance of the Universal theme song by dozens of young recorder players. The excitement continued with a processional as hundreds of kids, alongside characters, paraded to the Isle of Curiosity, where choreographed dance moments came to life inspired by the park’s brands – Gabby’s Dollhouse, Shrek, Trolls and Puss in Boots from DreamWorks Animation, Illumination’s Minions, Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants from Paramount Products and Experiences and Universal Pictures’ Jurassic World. It all culminated with a countdown to the park’s official opening, marked by a storm of colorful confetti, daytime pyro, a ribbon cutting with a giant pair of children’s scissors.
“Today’s an exciting day for all kidkind as we officially open Universal Kids Resort,” said Page Thompson, President, New Ventures, Universal Destinations & Experiences. “Every aspect of this park was designed with kids in mind, and it’s amazing to see the smiles on their faces as they enjoy all that Universal Kids Resort has to offer.”
“Universal Kids Resort offers a completely unique experience to what we have at our other destinations – introducing a younger generation to Universal fun crafted just for them,” said Molly Murphy, President, Universal Creative. “We set out to develop a park that invites kids to splash, play, dance and laugh with some of their favorite characters. We’re excited for kids to create lasting memories here with their families as they embark on the ultimate playdate.”
Three years in the making, Universal Kids Resort features seven dedicated areas that celebrate beloved characters and stories: DreamWorks’ Shrek’s Swamp, Jurassic World Adventure Camp, Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom, Illumination’s Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club, DreamWorks’ TrollsFest, DreamWorks’ Puss in Boots Del Mar and the Isle of Curiosity featuring DreamWorks’ Gabby’s Dollhouse. And located at the entrance of the park is Universal Kids Resort Hotel, a 300-room vibrant hotel featuring various room types that sleep up to five or six guests, an array of family-friendly amenities, and dining.
