Universal Planning New Family Theme Park for Texas

© Universal Parks & Entertainment

The other week Universal Parks & Resorts made a very surprising (to me, at least) announcement that they are going to open a family theme park in Frisco, Texas on 97 acres of land they have purchased.  They specifically note that the regional (not national) park will be aimed at families with small children, so quickly shed the idea of a full typical Universal Studios style park coming to Texas, that isn't happening.  While smaller than their other parks, they promise the same level of quality and detail we are accustomed to.

The details on the park are slim, for now at least, beside the given family focus.  They did release some initial concept art, above, for the project that lets us see just how kid-oriented the park is.  Per the initial press release the Frisco park will be "set in a lush green landscape and will feature immersive themed lands, celebrate Universal’s iconic brand of entertainment, humor and innovation and will bring to life its beloved characters and stories in ways that will wow even the youngest theme park goers."

 

Cool, but what will be at the park?  Well there will be a hotel on site - seen surrounding the park's entrance.  The different lands appear to be themed to DreamWorks animation characters such as Trolls, Shrek, an animated Jurassic Park series and more.  The rides themselves looks like dressed up theme park classics, in fact if you look close it seems like the entire Zamperla family-ride catalogue can be found in the art!  Otherwise Universal promises "family-friendly attractions, interactive and playful shows, character meet and greets, unique merchandise and fun food and beverage venues" will be offered.

Hopefully a full name for the park and some details on the themed lands will come out soon, and perhaps even an opening time line.  For now if you want to read great speculation on the park, check out this podcast from Orlando Park Stop.