Universal Kids Resort’s Exterior Landscaping Is Part of Its Agreement With Frisco

Universal Kids Resort has begun welcoming its first guests. And before I finally step inside the park on Tuesday, here’s one last construction-focused article. This time, we’re looking at the resort’s exterior landscaping.

What began with hundreds of holly bushes has been improved with hardwood trees, crepe myrtles, long wispy grasses, and dozens of other plants I can’t begin to identify. Even better is the landscaping surrounding the four large Universal Kids Resort signs. Those plants create a welcoming vibe for those visiting the park. Or for those who are just driving by.

The densest vegetation is along the resort’s north side near Jurassic World Adventure Camp. Despite already looking complete, Universal added several crepe myrtles between existing trees just a few weeks ago. I’m not sure why this area received extra attention, but it really creates the impression of a mature park.

Why Universal planted so many perimeter trees

Universal Kids Resort’s exterior landscaping isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s also part of Universal’s agreement with the City of Frisco. Here’s the relevant excerpt from a March 2023 city press release:

“All fencing viewable from roadways surrounding the park must be fully screened using a landscape buffer consisting of shrubs and trees, ranging in 12’–24′, prior to opening the theme park.”

Basically, the trees and shrubs surrounding the resort weren’t optional. Universal had to ensure that guests saw landscaping instead of fencing.

What’s curious is that a polished green chain-link fence added months ago is now disappearing from several sections of the perimeter. The fence met the criteria and was obscured by the hedge and trees. I don’t know whether its removal is temporary or permanent. But if it is gone for good, Universal appears confident that the holly hedge can handle most of the job on its own.

Interior landscaping needs time to catch up

Inside the park, however, the conversation has been very different. One of the more common criticisms on social media is the lack of mature landscaping in certain areas, particularly around Shrek and Fiona’s Happily Ogre After. The attraction’s concept art shows lush vegetation surrounding the attraction’s storybook-style sets. From the photos and videos I’ve seen so far, the real-world version doesn’t quite match that vision yet.

That’s not especially surprising. Trees and shrubs take time to grow. Every new theme park faces the same challenge. And even though Universal added several massive oaks earlier this year, it’s fair to acknowledge that some areas of the park feel less finished than the artwork promised.

In Universal’s defense, the park hasn’t officially opened yet. These are previews, not the finished product. With opening day still more than a week away, there’s time for additional landscaping and other finishing touches. We’ll be visiting on Tuesday and Wednesday, as well as on opening day. I have the feeling I’ll be spending way too much time taking photos of shrubs.

Want to learn more about Universal Kids Resort and its seven themed lands? We’ve got you covered. Visit our Universal Kids Resort hub for everything coming to the new Frisco theme park.