Outside the Disney Bubble

Universal Makes Official Declaration Regarding Demolition of Classic Florida Ride

Universal is getting ready to demolish one of its most iconic Florida thrill rides.

The Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Roller Coaster at Universal Studios Florida
Credit: Jeremy Thompson, Flickr

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Universal Studios has made an official declaration regarding Rip Ride Rockit, filing a new demolition permit for the attraction. The new permit was discovered by avid Universal parks scooper Alicia Stella, and gives a few more details away regarding the coaster’s closure.

After more than 15 years of operation, the decision was made to retire this fan-favorite attraction. The timeline for the ride’s final operations indicates that it will wind down activities in September 2025. The reasoning behind this decision stems from multiple factors, including increasing complaints regarding the ride’s roughness and persistent downtime issues. Guests have often aired grievances about the coaster’s unsettling ride experience, leading Universal to conclude that instead of making repeated repairs, the best course of action was to demolish and replace the attraction entirely.

With the announcement of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit’s closure, reactions from the public have been mixed. Many guests, some of whom have grown fond of the roller coaster, expressed disappointment, even frustration, over losing a ride that has become a staple in their Universal experience. The ride boasts historical significance; it was one of the first coasters to incorporate personalized ride soundtracks, enhancing the experience for countless visitors.

In comparison with other iconic attractions, Rip Ride Rockit may be remembered alongside all-time favorites like Back to the Future and Jaws, which have similarly been retired. Its departure raises questions about the future of Universal’s thrill offerings and whether the park can deliver a replacement that captures the same sense of excitement and innovation that guests have come to expect.

The newly filed demolition permit signifies Universal’s commitment to moving forward with Project 830, which will involve both demolition and the introduction of something new in Rip Ride Rockit’s place. As details are still emerging, it is expected that the new ride or attraction will aim to address the shortcomings of its predecessor while captivating the imaginations of thrill-seekers once again.

The timeline for Project 830 development is an essential factor for Universal fans, as they anticipate a grand reveal of what will fill the void left by the iconic coaster. The closure period in 2025 set for Rip Ride Rockit creates an exciting anticipation for what could soon replace the ride, further encouraging guests to keep coming back to Universal Studios Orlando.

Concept art for Epic Universe, specifically the entrance to the large theme park showing guests walking through the gates.
Credit: Universal

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As the clouds of change gather above Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, another exciting venture is on the horizon: Epic Universe. Slated to open its gates on May 22, 2025, this new theme park promises to deliver an array of attractions that could significantly affect the overall landscape of Universal Orlando Resort.

Epic Universe will feature major attractions from beloved franchises like Harry Potter, Super Mario, and How to Train Your Dragon, making it a magnet for fans of all ages. The anticipation surrounding its opening suggests that it may not only bring fresh experiences to guests but could also shift the balance of power in the competition with nearby parks.

The impact of Epic Universe’s debut may also be felt more broadly, as it could draw a higher volume of visitors to the Universal Orlando Resort, potentially making the loss of Rip Ride Rockit a minor footnote in guests’ experiences in light of what is to come.

Luke Dammann

When at Disney world, Luke will probably be found eating with his favorite animatronic, Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe. When not at Disney World, Luke will probably be found defending Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe to people who claim "there are better restaurants"

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