Universal Orlando Resort is gearing up for a monumental 2025 that promises to reshape the Central Florida theme park scene. With the highly anticipated Universal’s Epic Universe set to open in just five months, the popular destination has also revealed the closing date for one of its most iconic attractions.
Mark your calendars—May 22, 2025, will be a day to remember as Universal ushers in a new era with the launch of Epic Universe. Florida’s theme park hub, already home to legendary destinations like Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando, is about to see its landscape evolve in spectacular fashion.
Universal’s Epic Universe will introduce visitors to immersive lands such as Celestial Park, Dark Universe, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic. Among its marquee attractions, guests can look forward to Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry and the adrenaline-fueled Dragon Racer’s Rally.
But as thrilling new experiences take shape, cherished ones must bid farewell. Universal Studios Florida’s Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, the park’s groundbreaking coaster that debuted in 2009, will soon take its final bow.
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit redefined thrill rides with its unique combination of heart-pounding speed, 167-foot vertical climb, and a customizable soundtrack. Guests weren’t just passengers—they became DJs, curating their ride experience with tracks that played as they soared through intense drops and spirals. Over the past 15 years, this coaster has cemented its place as a fan favorite, offering countless unforgettable moments.
Now, the countdown begins for the coaster’s closure. On December 26, Universal filed a permit to demolish Rip Ride Rockit, replacing it with a mysterious “proposed attraction.” The filing references “Project 830” and confirms that the roller coaster’s time is drawing to a close.
While rumors of the coaster’s retirement have circulated for years, this marks the first official step toward its removal. Fans recently got confirmation from Universal’s X (formerly Twitter) account:
“Hello! Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit will close in early September 2025 to make way for a new experience. More details will be available at a later date. #AskUniversal”
https://twitter.com/UniversalORL/status/1872765976933974289
What’s next for the space? While Universal has yet to unveil specific details, the permit reveals that Intamin—the Swiss roller coaster manufacturer behind Epic Universe’s How to Train Your Dragon coaster and the upcoming Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift coaster in California—is spearheading the project.
For now, there’s still time to take one last spin on the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. The clock is ticking, and this September will mark the end of an era.
What do you think about Universal saying goodbye to this iconic ride? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
