Universal Studios Florida is preparing to retire one of its most visible — and loudest — attractions. After more than a decade of thrilling guests with its towering lift hill and custom music selections, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockitwill close permanently on August 18, 2025.
According to Universal Orlando officials, the closure is intended to “make way for a new experience,” though no further details were shared. That hasn’t stopped the speculation machine: industry insiders and online sleuths point to a Fast & Furious-themed coaster as the likely replacement.
A High-Speed Icon Since 2009
Rip Ride Rockit first opened in the summer of 2009, immediately distinguishing itself with a vertical lift, non-inverting loop, and a high-tech feature that let riders choose their own soundtrack. The roller coaster’s 167-foot-tall ascent was an unmistakable part of Universal’s skyline, and the personalized music element made it a unique experience with every ride.
Guests could select songs from a wide array of genres, from hip-hop and classic rock to hidden tracks that became the subject of internet lore. The result? A coaster that offered thrills, personality, and re-rideability in equal measure.
Over the years, Rip Ride Rockit developed a loyal fanbase—but also gained a reputation for mechanical issues and inconsistent operation.
Not Without Trouble
From the beginning, Rip Ride Rockit was ambitious—and occasionally, unpredictable. Just a year after opening, Universal shut it down for extended maintenance due to concerns with the durability of its trains. The ride returned with updated vehicles, but continued to face occasional downtime.
In November 2023, riders were stranded near the vertical lift and required rescue from local fire officials. No one was injured, but the event highlighted the wear and tear on one of Universal’s most intense rides.
As Epic Universe nears its grand opening in 2025, Universal has quietly begun fine-tuning its existing parks. The upcoming closure of Rip Ride Rockit appears to be part of a larger strategy to refresh and reinvigorate the lineup at Universal Studios Florida.
Fast & Furious to the Rescue?
While Universal has not officially announced what will replace the coaster, many believe it will be a Fast & Furious roller coaster—possibly a high-speed, outdoor thrill ride that serves as a more kinetic counterpoint to the much-criticized “Fast & Furious – Supercharged” dark ride, which opened in 2018 to lukewarm reviews.
Considering the massive global appeal of the franchise and Universal’s track record of retooling space with blockbuster IP (as seen with Jurassic World VelociCoaster), the move would make strategic sense.
The coaster’s large footprint, location in the Production Central area, and proximity to existing Fast & Furious theming make it a prime candidate for the franchise’s long-overdue coaster debut.
One Last Ride
Universal fans now have just a few months to catch a final ride on the music-blasting coaster before it disappears for good. It’s unclear whether Universal will hold any kind of farewell celebration, but longtime visitors are already planning their goodbyes.
If you want to climb that 90-degree lift hill and choose your last ride anthem—whether it’s “Sabotage” or “Stronger”—you’ll have until August 18, 2025.
Whatever comes next, Rip Ride Rockit’s legacy as one of Universal’s most original thrill rides is cemented in theme park history. Now, the countdown begins — and the engines may already be revving for what’s next.
