FRISCO, Texas -- Universal is less than two weeks away from debuting a new theme park concept: a park designed for families with children ages 3 to 8.
Universal Kids Resort will open here on July 1, and executives at a media preview said the concept will introduce young audiences to Universal's product, hopefully capturing their attention for life.
"Universal Kids Resort is part of our growth strategy," said Molly Murphy, president of Universal Creative. "It welcomes a whole new generation of fans to our immersive brand of storytelling, and it serves as a gateway to our major destinations around the world."
Sharon Parker, director of marketing and sales for Universal Kids Resort, said that welcome comes in a low-key, age-appropriate way.
The entrance to Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom, one of seven themed lands at Universal Kids Resort. Photo Credit: Jamie Biesiada
"It's all about getting our youngest fans to be introduced to our product at kid-sized portions so that they can be ready to enjoy the bigger thrills that are throughout Universal properties all over the world," Parker said.
Universal Kids Resort features beloved characters throughout in seven themed lands.
Guests enter the park at the Isle of Curiosity, home to the Universal Kids Resort Cafe and the Universal Kids Resort Store as well as Gabby's Cat-Tastic Dance Party! and Cakey's Cupcakes, featuring characters from "Gabby's Dollhouse."
Bello Bay Cruise, a Minions-themed raft ride. Photo Credit: Jamie Bisiada
Beyond the Isle of Curiosity are six other themed lands: Illumination's Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club, DreamWorks' TrollsFest, DreamWorks' Puss in Boots Del Mar, DreamWorks' Shrek's Swamp, Jurassic World Adventure Camp and Nickelodeon's SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom.
Brian Robinson, executive vice president and chief creative officer of Universal Creative, said, "All of these lands are designed for kids, and when you get there, whether you want to dance, you want to splash, you want to sing, you want to have your first thrill ever, or adventures in food, it's built just for you," Robinson said.
In addition to plenty of attractions, characters, retail spaces and food and beverage locations, the park features a number of splash pads and playgrounds.
Parker encouraged travel advisors to share with clients exactly how much there is to do at the park. She believes the park offers travelers a two-day experience.
"The first time, you're taking it in and you will debrief and decompress," Parker said. "And then the second day, you're able to rediscover the things that brought you joy the first day or discover something new that you overlooked the first time."
The Shrek’s Swamp land features the Shrek’s Swamp Rompin’ Stomp playground. Photo Credit: Jamie Biesiada
Parker encouraged advisors to talk to their clients about purchasing a package to visit the park and stay at the hotel, which grants early admission.
The Universal Kids Resort Hotel is adjacent to the theme park. Many rooms have theme park views. In total, it has 300 standard rooms and family suites.
Tickets for Universal Kids Resort start at $54.99 per person, plus tax. A package that includes two nights at the Universal Kids Resort Hotel and a one-and-a-half day park admission is also available.