Five Things Parents Should Know Before Planning a Trip to Universal Kids Resort
By Lindsey Brown, Travel Advisor
July 30, 2026
Have you heard the exciting news?
Universal Kids Resort is now open in Frisco, Texas, and it's designed specifically for families with children ages 3–9. From immersive themed lands and interactive attractions to character encounters and splash zones, this brand-new destination offers countless opportunities to create unforgettable family memories.
I recently had the opportunity to experience the park firsthand, and I'm excited to share some of the tips I wish I had known before arriving. Whether you're planning your very first visit or simply looking for ways to make your day run more smoothly, these five tips will help you make the most of your adventure.
Seven Immersive Lands Designed Just for Kids
Universal Kids Resort features seven themed lands inspired by some of children's favorite characters and stories.
Families can:
Explore the fairy-tale world of Shrek
Set off on adventures with Puss in Boots
Visit Bikini Bottom with SpongeBob SquarePants
Cause playful mischief with the Minions
Come face-to-face with dinosaurs in Jurassic World
Dance and sing with Poppy and friends in Trolls Village
Step inside the imaginative world of Gabby's Dollhouse
Each area offers a thoughtful combination of attractions, interactive play, character experiences, and entertainment designed specifically with younger children in mind.
1. Plan for the Texas Heat
Texas summers are intense, so staying cool and hydrated should be one of your biggest priorities.
Here are a few items I highly recommend bringing:
Reusable water bottles (fillable at refill stations near every restroom and Coca-Cola Freestyle machine)
Rechargeable neck fan
Cooling towels
Hat or small umbrella for shade
Sunscreen
During my visit, my rechargeable neck fan quickly became my favorite item. Many attractions and queue areas are in direct sunlight, so having a way to stay cool makes a huge difference.
You'll also find misting stations throughout the park that provide a welcome break from the heat.
A little preparation goes a long way toward helping everyone stay happy and comfortable throughout the day.
2. Pack Swimsuits—You'll Want Them!
One of the biggest surprises for me was just how many opportunities there are for water play.
Be sure to pack:
Swimsuits
Water shoes
Towels
A complete change of clothes for the ride home (if you're not staying at the on-site hotel)
Splash areas include:
Minions vs. Minions Bello Bay Club (two splash pads)
Shrek's Swamp (large splash area)
Bikini Bottom (large splash area)
Changing rooms and pay-per-use dryers are available near the larger splash areas.
Beyond the splash pads, you'll also find large playgrounds in:
Shrek's Swamp
Trolls Village
Jurassic Adventure
One of my favorite ways to maximize the value of a theme park ticket is to enjoy these interactive play areas. They provide a great opportunity for kids to burn off energy while parents take a break in the shade.
3. Measure Your Kids Before You Go
Nothing is more disappointing than arriving at a ride only to discover your child doesn't quite meet the height requirement.
Before leaving home, measure everyone and compare their height to the attraction requirements.
Barnacle Bus
Guests under 30" (77cm) cannot ride.
Children between 30"-48" (77cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a Supervising Companion
Bello Bay Cruise
Guests under 40" (102cm) cannot ride.
Children between 40"-48" (102cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a Supervising Companion.
Bello Bay Golf Cart Derby
Guests under 36" (92cm) cannot ride.
Children between 36"-48" (92cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a Supervising Companion.
Bobbing Barrels
Guests under 36" (92cm) cannot ride.
Children between 36"-48" (92cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a Supervising Companion.
Hair in the Clouds
Guests under 36" (92cm) cannot ride.
Children between 36"-48" (92cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a Supervising Companion.
Jellyfish Fields Jamboree
Hand-held infants are not permitted.
Children under 48" (122cm) must be accompanied by a Supervising Companion.
Jurassic World: Cretaceous Coaster
Guests under 39" (100cm) cannot ride.
Children between 39"-48" (100cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a Supervising Companion.
Mr. DNA's Double Helix Spin
Hand-held infants are not permitted.
Children under 53" (135cm) must be accompanied by a Supervising Companion.
Mrs. Puff's Boating School
Guests under 36" (92cm) or over 77" (196cm) cannot ride.
Children between 36"-48" (92cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a Supervising Companion.
Pteranodrop
Guests under 36" (92cm) cannot ride.
Children between 36"-48" (92cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a Supervising Companion.
Rhonda's TrollsFest Express
Guests under 36" (92cm) cannot ride.
Children between 36"-48" (92cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a Supervising Companion.
Shrek and Fiona's Happily Ogre After
Guests under 30" (77cm) cannot ride.
Children between 30"-48" (77cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a Supervising Companion
Swings Over Del Mar
Guests under 42" (107cm) cannot ride.
Children between 42"-48" (107cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a Supervising Companion.
At the time of my visit, Universal Kids Resort was not offering Rider Swap. That makes knowing your children's heights before you arrive even more important if you're traveling with siblings of different sizes.
Although rides are only one part of the experience, they're certainly a highlight for many families, and a quick height check beforehand can help avoid unexpected disappointment.
4. Take Advantage of the Family Care Spaces
One feature that truly impressed me was the Family Care Centers.
These quiet, air-conditioned spaces include:
First Aid
Nursing rooms
Quiet rooms
Adult care rooms
They're perfect if your child becomes overstimulated, needs a sensory break, or your family simply needs a few minutes away from the excitement.
Another thoughtful touch is the digital vending machines stocked with essentials such as:
Swim diapers
Pull-ups
Diapers
Single-serve baby formula
Feminine hygiene products
It's one of those details you hope you won't need—but you'll be incredibly grateful it's there if you do.
5. Slow Down and Enjoy the Entertainment
It can be tempting to rush from ride to ride, but Universal Kids Resort offers plenty of entertainment that's worth building into your day.
Some of our favorites included:
Trolls Dance Party
Techno Dance Party
Puss in Boots stage show
Indoor theater experiences
These shows provide a wonderful opportunity to cool off in the air conditioning, rest tired feet, and let little ones recharge before heading back out for more fun.
Sometimes the best memories come from slowing down and enjoying the entertainment—not just checking off every attraction.
Ready to Plan Your Universal Kids Resort Adventure?
If Universal Kids Resort sounds like the perfect fit for your family, I'd love to help you plan every detail.
As a Travel Advisor with Wishes Family Travel, my complimentary planning services can help you choose the best accommodations, maximize your time in the park, and make your vacation as stress-free as possible.
Follow along for more travel inspiration:
Disclosure: I was hosted by Universal Kids Resort for the purpose of experiencing the park and becoming more familiar with it so I can better serve my clients and fellow advisors. No compensation was provided in exchange for this review, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.