Something strange is happening at Universal Studios Florida—and no one’s running away. In fact, fans are charging toward it with excitement.
In a surprising twist that has longtime theme park fans buzzing, Universal Orlando may have just kicked off construction on its long-rumored Ghostbusters attraction. No official confirmation yet, but the signs are flashing brighter than a proton pack on overdrive.
Bye-Bye Rip Ride Rockit
The beloved—and sometimes divisive—Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is officially on the chopping block. The coaster will close permanently on August 18, and Universal has filed permits for a massive new build in its place. We’re talking about a two-story, 39,000+ square-foot facility, loaded with all the essential infrastructure for a full-scale attraction: electrical, plumbing, fire suppression—you name it.
The biggest spark? Construction walls have gone up around the iconic Ghostbusters Firehouse facade in the New York area of the park. These aren’t your typical themed walls with vague messages. They specifically reference a “restoration” of the firehouse, which just so happens to be where the old Ghostbusters Spooktacular show took place in the ‘90s.
“Restoration” has fans lighting up comment threads with Ghostbusters puns and predictions. Some even believe this is Universal’s version of how they teased Minion Land—subtle, cheeky, and ultimately spot-on.
Coaster or Dark Ride? Fans Want Both
According to recent rumors and comparisons to the Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift coaster being built in California, this new attraction could blend thrill with storytelling. That ride utilizes a launch-based indoor/outdoor format—ideal for a Ghostbusters story with multiple set pieces and iconic scenes.
Imagine walking through the Ghostbusters’ headquarters, getting recruited, and hopping on a high-tech ride vehicle to save New York from a new supernatural threat. Add in Slimer, the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man, and that legendary theme music? Yeah, that’s the kind of fan service that would break the internet.
Universal’s Sneaky History Gives Us Hope
This wouldn’t be the first time Universal played coy. Remember how VelociCoaster was basically fully built before Universal even confirmed it existed? It’s entirely possible that they’re going to wait until the new attraction is nearly ready before giving it an official name or logo.
But if you’re reading between the lines—or the themed walls—it’s hard not to feel like Universal just pulled the trigger on a Ghostbusters ride. Fans are ready. The construction is happening. The question is no longer if, but when.
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