Universal Studios' has announced a name and logo for its park under construction in Frisco. "Universal Kids Resort" is expected to open in 2026.
"It'll feature our immersive and distinct brand of story-telling, adventures you can only imagine, and characters that come from our rich heritage and great stories," says Mark Woodbury, CEO of Universal Destinations and Experiences.
Universal has started construction on the park near Dallas North Tollway and Panther Creek Parkway. Earlier this year, the city approved plans and will provide incentives of up to $12.7 million.
"We're used to hosting people here in Frisco," says Mayor Jeff Cheney. "This is going to give people another reason to come visit our community, shop with our retailers, spend money here, stay at our hotels, stay that extra night."
Cheney says Frisco already draws seven million visitors a year. He says Universal Kids Resort will lead to more interest from other businesses like hotels, shops and restaurants.
"The Universal brand has brought a lot of excitement to this part of our city," he says. "We do expect further projects nearby over the next year."
People who live in the neighborhood across Panther Creek have opposed the park. Some in the Estates at Cobb Hill say Universal Kids Resort will lead to more traffic and crime. Some say the park will encroach on a residential area.
"As we went through zoning, it really became a community conversation," Cheney says. "Those were things the city council looked at far before we ever considered the project, so just the residents knowing there was a plan in place, I think eased a lot of those concerns."
Cheney says Frisco plans to widen Panther Creek Pkwy and sidewalks.
Universal Kids Resort will include rides accessible to people under four feet tall, and kids will be able to meet characters. The park will also have shows and family-friendly attractions.
"Universal Kids Resort will inspire the unbridled creativity of kids through imagination, discovery and, most importantly, play," says Molly Murphy, president of Universal Creative.
The resort will cover 97 acres and include 4,300 parking spaces and a 300-room hotel.
"That will give families with young children an inviting and convenient place to stay and play during their theme park adventures," Murphy says.
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