Universal’s Big 2026: New Parks, New Thrills, and Special Events
Get ready for a HUGE 2026 Universal friends! Universal Destinations & Experiences has shared their upcoming lineup and it is pretty amazing.
2026 promises an exciting year with new parks, bold attractions, and immersive fan events. Here are the biggest projects Universal fans want to be ready for!
Universal Kids Resort Opens in Texas
Universal Kids Resort
Universal Kids Resort opens in 2026 in Frisco, Texas. This all-new theme park is designed for families with young children and focuses on play, discovery, and imagination.
The park will feature seven themed lands inspired by Shrek, Jurassic World, SpongeBob SquarePants, Minions, Trolls, Puss in Boots, and an original area called the Isle of Curiosity.
Sensory gardens throughout the park give families calm spaces to pause and reset during the day.
There is also a colorful 300-room hotel at the entrance that serves as both a place to stay and the gateway to the park.
Universal Fun Comes to a Museum
On February 14, 2026, Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition opens at The Franklin Institute. This immersive experience takes you behind the scenes on how Universal brings its amazing attractions to life.
See the creative process behind favorites like Jaws, Minions, Jurassic World, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, Universal Monsters, and more. Eight themed galleries explore storytelling, ride technology, special effects, and the creative ideas behind modern theme parks. Tickets are already on sale.
Fast and Furious Races Into Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood debuts its first high-speed outdoor roller coaster in 2026 with Fast and Furious: Hollywood Drift.
The coaster features four spinning ride vehicles designed to simulate drifting cars as guests race along an aerial track above parts of the park. The queue takes place inside a garage setting, and ride vehicles resemble iconic cars from the films, including Dom Toretto’s Dodge Charger.
Universal Fan Fest Nights Return
Universal
Universal Fan Fest Nights comes back to Universal Studios Hollywood in spring 2026. This separately ticketed after-hours event celebrates pop culture fandom with immersive experiences, live entertainment, cosplay, themed food, and exclusive merchandise.
The special event runs from April 23–25 and May 1–3, 7–9, and 15–16 and promises a line up of new and returning experiences.
Looking Beyond 2026
Universal is also planning future expansions, including Universal Horror Unleashed in Chicago and a new theme park destination in the United Kingdom.
The momentum heading into 2026 shows no signs of slowing, and we can’t to bring you more.
Be sure to stay tuned and follow along with UniversalParksBlog to stay updated on this and all things Universal.
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Feature Photo: Universal
