For years, Walt Disney World Resort has been the top vacation destination in Florida and is recognized as one of the leading theme parks globally. Even with the opening of Universal Studios just a short 20-minute drive away in 1990, it struggled to rival Walt Disney World’s immense popularity. Nevertheless, this didn’t deter Universal; instead, it galvanized them to enhance their offerings.
Nine years after Universal Studios Florida launched, the resort expanded with a second theme park: Islands of Adventure. This new park featured a range of thrilling roller coasters, immersive themed areas, and much more. Universal’s ambition did not stop there, as it continued to seek ways to compete with Disney.
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In 2009, Universal Studios Florida introduced a one-of-a-kind roller coaster that provided a unique ride experience not found anywhere else in Central Florida. The Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit sent riders on an exhilarating high-speed journey while allowing them to choose their own soundtrack for the experience.
Notably, the ride begins with an ascent, lifting guests 167 feet into the air while they lie flat on their backs, creating a thrilling and adrenaline-pumping adventure.
Despite being over 15 years old, the attraction remains extremely popular; however, some guests are unable to ride due to size restrictions.
Regrettably, fans of the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit will soon lose this beloved attraction.
On December 26, it was revealed that Universal filed a permit to demolish the roller coaster and replace it with a “proposed attraction.” The specifics regarding this new attraction—including its theme, construction timeline, and expected opening date—are still unclear.
For many, the news of the ride’s closure was not a complete shock, as rumors about its potential shutdown have been circulating for years. However, this permit serves as the first solid indication that Universal has been planning to close the attraction for quite some time.
Universal has filed plans with the SFWMD for Project 830, the removal and replacement of Rip Ride Rockit.
Universal has filed plans with the SFWMD for Project 830, the removal and replacement of Rip Ride Rockit. pic.twitter.com/sBBsh7WGCB
— Behind the Thrills (@BehindThrills) December 26, 2024
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While details about what will replace the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit remain unknown, the documentation suggests it could be another exciting roller coaster, with roller coaster manufacturer Intamin set to handle the new project.
This will not be Intamin’s first partnership with Universal; the company is currently working on two roller coasters for the resort—one themed to How To Train Your Dragon (2010) at Epic Universe, which is scheduled to open on May 22, 2025, and another, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, currently under construction at Universal Studios Hollywood, expected to debut in 2026.
Are you saddened by the news of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit’s impending closure? Was it a ride you couldn’t miss, or something you could easily pass on during your park visit? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
