Credit: UniversalAugust marks the final month of operation for one of Universal Orlando Resort’s most divisive fixtures.
The past decade has been huge for Universal Orlando Resort as the destination introduces a swathe of immersive new experiences to rival Walt Disney World Resort. While the most obvious addition is, of course, Epic Universe, several new attractions have also popped up at both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.
As is often the case at theme parks, some of these new additions were precluded by closures. Universal Orlando Resort is restricted for space in many areas, meaning that the likes of Shrek 4-D, Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone, Dragon Challenge, Disaster!, and T2 3D: Battle across Time have all permanently shuttered in the past decade to make space for attractions such as Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast (which didn’t exactly receive the warmest welcome), DreamWorks Land, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, Fast & Furious: Supercharged, and The Bourne Stuntacular.
Some of these closures were met with more disappointment than others (for what it’s worth, we’ll mourn Shrek 4-D until the end). However, they aren’t the last to hit the Florida theme park destination, with another major ride set to close forever in just over two weeks.
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Nears The End
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit will close on August 18. Originally slated to close in September, Universal brought its extinction date closer earlier this year.
The attraction has been a high-speed staple at Universal Studios Florida since its debut in 2009. Known for its towering vertical lift, customizable on-board soundtrack, and non-inverting loop, the coaster quickly became a guest favorite for thrill-seekers. Riders can select from a library of songs across various genres, adding a personal soundtrack to their experience.
At over 17 stories tall and reaching speeds up to 65 mph, the coaster cuts a striking figure along the park’s skyline. Though it lacks the deep theming of newer attractions, its unique design and interactive music features (including its secret song selection, which included the likes of “Rainbow Connection” by Kermit the Frog) have helped it maintain popularity. However, its history has also included periodic maintenance closures and technical hiccups, fueling occasional speculation about its long-term future.
Rumors have also floated that the ride’s music licensing costs were simply not sustainable. Guests have also long complained about Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit’s rickety nature, which has delivered more than its fair share of headaches over the years.
What’s Coming to Universal Studios Florida?
The good news is that Universal doesn’t plan on letting the plot currently occupied by Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit sit empty for long.
Work has already begun on the attraction’s replacement. Construction is underway in the surrounding area, backing out into Universal CityWalk and Hard Rock Cafe. Guests have shared updates on Reddit, with the surrounding area reminiscent of the site surrounding VelociCoaster during its famously ‘secret’ construction period.
Guys, I think it's getting worse… 😐
byu/The_Music_Guy_2025 inUniversalOrlando
However, Universal has yet to officially announce what will replace Rip Ride Rockit, though speculation is running rampant among fans. Popular theories point to major IPs like Fast & Furious or Ghostbusters. The latter seems especially plausible, given the ride’s location near the old Ghostbusters firehouse façade – once used for the Ghostbusters Spooktacular show – still standing in the park.
In June, construction walls appeared around the firehouse, adding fuel to the rumors that Universal will finally construct a Ghostbusters attraction in Florida. The resort has made it clear that it’s committed to the IP in recent years, having added it to Universal Studios Florida’s Mega Movie Parade and its CineSational lagoon show. Whether or not that commitment extends to a full-blown ride remains to be seen.
Will you miss Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit?