Something’s in the air at Universal Orlando Resort—and no, it’s not just the roar of VelociCoaster. As new lands rise and bigger thrills take shape, several longtime attractions are starting to look… temporary.
One fan-favorite ride already has its final date set. The rest? Let’s say fans wouldn’t be shocked to see them quietly disappear soon. Whether due to dated tech, licensing shifts, or poor guest satisfaction, these five Universal rides could be on the verge of permanent closure.
1. The Simpsons Ride (Universal Studios Florida, Springfield)
When it opened in 2008, The Simpsons Ride was a big deal. It took over the former Back to the Future: The Ride space and introduced fans to a wild motion-simulated journey through Krustyland. Paired with the surrounding Springfield area—complete with Duff beer and Lard Lad Donuts—it felt like a complete world.
But today? It’s showing its age. The animation is outdated, the simulator feels jerky compared to newer rides, and the humor—while still classic—doesn’t hit the same with modern audiences. To complicate matters, The Simpsons is now a Disney property, meaning Universal is operating someone else’s IP.
There’s been no official word of a closure, but many believe the writing’s on the wall. DreamWorks has become a growing presence at Universal, and Springfield could easily be re-skinned into something like Shrek. Universal could also go with another family franchise with long-term licensing security.
2. Pteranodon Flyers (Islands of Adventure, Jurassic Park)
You might not even know this ride exists—and if you do, chances are you’ve never been on it. Pteranodon Flyers (1999) is one of the most inaccessible attractions at Universal. It was designed specifically for kids under 56 inches, with adults only allowed to ride when accompanying a child who qualifies. That’s made it almost impossible for most guests to experience.
Even those who do wait in line often face low capacity and long wait times. It’s a gentle glider ride above Camp Jurassic, but its short duration and limited throughput have made it one of the least efficient rides in the park.
It closed in April 2024 for refurbishment and hasn’t consistently reopened. Many believe it’s quietly on the chopping block. The area could be reimagined as an expanded Camp Jurassic with more inclusive family rides or even a small coaster that better serves all ages.
3. The Lost Continent (Islands of Adventure)
This entire land is practically a placeholder at this point. The Lost Continent once featured some of Universal’s most immersive theming—complete with mythological shows, walkthroughs, and stunt performances. But it’s been steadily shrinking. Sindbad closed in 2018. Poseidon’s Fury shut down in 2023. Now it’s mostly just themed walkways and a few food stands.
Fans agree: The land is stunning but serves minimal purpose now, which is why so many believe it’s primed for a full transformation.
Fan speculation focuses on two potential replacements. The first is The Legend of Zelda, which would perfectly fit with its temples, castles, and adventurous tone. The second is Pokémon, a mega-franchise with endless potential for rides, character encounters, and interactivity.
Universal’s partnership with Nintendo—already expanding through Epic Universe—makes both possibilities plausible.
4. Fast & Furious: Supercharged (Universal Studios Florida, San Francisco)
This one hasn’t been officially scheduled for closure, but it’s widely believed to be one of the next to go. Fast & Furious: Supercharged opened in 2018 to mixed reactions at best. Based on the screen-heavy tram segment from Universal Hollywood, the Orlando version turned it into a standalone ride—and guests haven’t exactly been wowed.
It’s loud, chaotic, and mostly watched from a barely moving “party” bus. This ride feels like a letdown for a franchise all about cars, speed, and action. Reviews reflect that disappointment, and so do wait times.
The Florida version might follow suit with Universal already building a new Fast & Furious coaster on the West Coast. Fans speculate that Supercharged will be bulldozed and replaced with an actual high-speed experience that finally lives up to the name. There’s also speculation that Rip Ride Rockit Rollercoaster will be rethemed to Fast and the Furious, which would also be a good fit.
5. Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit (Universal Studios Florida, New York)
We’ll end with the only attraction that’s officially leaving. Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit will take its final drop this August. Since 2009, it’s been one of Universal’s most recognizable coasters, thanks to its bright red track and towering vertical lift hill. It even lets you pick your own music to blast in your seat—pretty innovative then.
But the ride’s reputation has soured over the years. It’s rough, loud, and often down for maintenance. Guests love the idea more than the ride itself. So Universal made the call.
What’s next? As previously mentioned, the retheme is predicted to be a new high-speed Fast & Furious-themed coaster. There have also been a few rumors about a Ghostbusters makeover.
What’s Next? Bigger Thrills, Less Nostalgia
Universal has never been shy about retiring rides that no longer serve their purpose. If a ride is underperforming, under-themed, or simply outdated, it’s fair game.
With Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit already scheduled to close, and the rest facing low guest satisfaction, licensing issues, or operational problems, this feels like a significant turning point. Fans of these attractions might want to get in their final rides soon—if Universal’s track record holds true, replacements won’t be far behind.
