In a year defined by closures, rethemes, and rapid transformation across Walt Disney World, one surprising ride is holding out longer than expected. While Splash Mountain has vanished and EPCOT is almost unrecognizable, a high-speed trip through the streets of L.A. with a legendary rock band is still very much on the map.
But not for long.
Walt Disney World has quietly confirmed that Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith will remain open through the end of 2025—a full year longer than many fans anticipated. So what’s keeping the doors open, and what’s waiting in the wings once the lights go out?
One Final Tour: Aerosmith’s Coaster Gets an Encore at Disney World
First opening in 1999, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster has been one of Disney’s most intense attractions—launching guests from 0 to 57 mph in under three seconds while classic Aerosmith hits blare in surround sound. The story? You’re racing across Los Angeles traffic in a super-stretch limo to catch a backstage concert.
But in the era of synergy and storytelling alignment, the presence of a third-party rock band has started to feel… dated. Rumors of the ride’s retirement have circulated for years. Now, we know when the guitar riffs will fade: January 2026.
While no exact closing date has been revealed, Disney typically allows popular rides to remain open through the busy holiday season before closing in the first week of the new year. So if you want one last ride with Steven Tyler and crew, your deadline is approaching.
The Muppets Move In
Here’s the real twist: the beloved Muppets are taking over.
NEW: Rock ’N’ Roller Coaster Starring @TheMuppets at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will open in 2026. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith will remain open through all of 2025.
NEW: Rock ’N’ Roller Coaster Starring @TheMuppets at Disney's Hollywood Studios will open in 2026.
Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith will remain open through all of 2025.
— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) June 7, 2025
Though Disney hasn’t officially unveiled concept art or a ride name, multiple internal sources and fan reports suggest the coaster will be reimagined with a Muppets-themed story and setting, replacing the glitzy music industry backdrop with Muppet-fueled chaos, humor, and likely a few chickens.
This retheme comes just as MuppetVision 3D, their long-running 4D show at Hollywood Studios, has shut its doors. Many speculate the change is part of a broader effort to keep The Muppets relevant—and visible—within the parks.
For fans of Kermit and the gang, it’s a major win. For Aerosmith loyalists, it’s a bittersweet goodbye.
Why This Actually Matters
This isn’t just a fun refresh. It represents a deeper shift in Disney’s approach to its theme parks: prioritizing IP control and emotional storytelling over nostalgic partnerships. From Tiana’s Bayou Adventure to Zootopia in Animal Kingdom, Disney’s clearly steering its attractions toward in-house franchises with multigenerational appeal.
It was originally announced back in January that @TheMuppets would be taking over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith.
It was originally announced back in January that @TheMuppets would be taking over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. pic.twitter.com/mrmYNTFNsE
— ThrillGeek (@thrillgeek) June 7, 2025
Letting go of Aerosmith was probably always the plan—it just took time to find the right replacement. And with The Muppets being one of Disney’s most iconic yet underused brands, this gives them a major platform again.
Whether or not the Muppets can match the high-speed, in-your-face energy of the current coaster remains to be seen. But one thing’s clear: Disney is all-in on giving this ride new life.
The Countdown Begins at Disney World
If you grew up with Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, or simply love the rush of a fast launch paired with ‘Dude (Looks Like a Lady),’ now’s your time. You’ve got through December 2025 to relive the magic.
After that, it’s curtains for the backstage pass—and a whole new kind of ride experience awaits.
So get your FastPasses (or Lightning Lanes), blast your favorite Aerosmith track, and take the ride while you still can. Because when the curtain falls, it’s Muppet time.
