Universal guests have spotted small nods to Ghostbusters at the park for decades, but the franchise has never had a full-scale attraction. A firehouse facade, a tucked-away library, even a stage show back in the day—all fun Easter eggs, but not the real deal.
After a surprising closure, the dream of a Ghostbusters ride might finally be moving closer to reality.
Why Ghostbusters Makes Sense
The brand is one of the few that can speak to nostalgia and modern audiences. The original films of the 1980s gave us unforgettable characters, proton packs, and a theme song that’s still instantly recognizable. The 2020s sequels—Afterlife (2021) and Frozen Empire (2024)—proved that kids and teens know the franchise just as well as their parents.
That blend of comedy, action, and supernatural spectacle feels like a natural fit for a park that thrives on big, recognizable IP. A proper ride could easily become the headliner that Universal Studios Florida needs.
A Major Ride Bows Out
The big shakeup came on August 18, 2025, when Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit officially closed. The towering coaster opened in 2009 with its famous vertical lift and customizable on-board soundtrack. For fans, it was a thrilling but rough ride that struggled with downtime and maintenance.
Now that the coaster is gone, the prime real estate at the front of the park is wide open. Even more intriguing, construction walls recently appeared around the nearby Ghostbusters firehouse and library structures. Could these pieces be connected? Many think so.
Retheme or Start Fresh?
Universal has choices. The simplest would be retheming the coaster’s footprint. Some suggest a Fast & Furious makeover—especially since Hollywood already has a version. But that idea doesn’t excite many fans, who feel Orlando already has its share of street racers.
Fans want something more playful. A Ghostbusters coaster could flash proton beams over the track, with riders racing through haunted cityscapes. The firehouse could even serve as the queue, with ghost traps and Slimer sightings.
Of course, Universal might go even bigger. Knocking down the coaster to build a fully themed dark ride is on the table. Imagine boarding a ride vehicle with blasters in hand, helping the Ghostbusters chase phantoms through New York streets filled with effects, projections, and animatronics.
Time to Answer the Call
The moment feels right. Ghostbusters is a property that connects generations, thanks to its classic films and modern revivals. For Universal, it would bring fresh energy to Studios while complementing the buzz of Epic Universe.
After years of subtle nods, fans hope this is the time Universal finally answers the call.
