Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Set for Closure: What’s Next at Universal?

Universal Studios Florida, Orlando, USA - Universal Orlando has confirmed the closure of its Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster on August 17, 2025, just shy of the ride’s sweet sixteen. As reported by Orlando Park Stop, this popular attraction will make way for a new experience at the park, although details about what exactly that will be remain under wraps for now.

Initially opening on August 19, 2008, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit has long been a staple at Universal Studios Florida. Over the years, however, it has seen a reduction in the song selections available during rides, which may have led to its declining popularity. Permits filed last year had already hinted at this impending closure, and recently, the South Florida Water Management District approved demolition plans for a new attraction, which is dubbed Project 830.

What’s in Store?

The official announcement set off sparks of excitement and curiosity among park-goers. The upcoming project will include the construction of three new buildings—one smaller structure near CityWalk and two larger developments at the back of the park. Among these, Building 51 is expected to cover a hefty 39,000 square feet. These structures are likely to include ride queue areas, load/unload zones, and maintenance bays for whatever new thrill is set to take the place of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit.

While Universal remains tight-lipped on the specifics, speculation is ripe among fans and industry insiders. Some suggest the new installation could be a roller coaster themed to familiar franchises like *Fast & Furious* or *Ghostbusters*. Adding fuel to the fire, a concept video released by Amusement Insider showcases an attraction titled „Orlando Drift,“ featuring extreme spinning coaster technology that could send riders soaring through a range of heart-racing maneuvers.

What’s more, whispers abound that Intamin, the company behind the *Fast & Furious* coaster in Hollywood, is involved in this new venture. With promises of a vertical spike and incredible speeds potentially reaching 69 mph, thrill-seekers might just find themselves clamoring to be among the first to ride this new attraction once it opens—anticipated by mid-2027.

Changes Across the Parks

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit isn’t the only ride receiving some major changes. In a recent announcement, Yahoo Entertainment detailed that HBO World and Universal Orlando also plans to close classic attractions like Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom on July 7, 2024. This beloved piece of the park, operational since 1973, will be reimagined with new *Cars*-themed rides amidst a Frontierland expansion that promises to capture the whimsy of Disney’s animated world.

For Universal enthusiasts keen on staying updated, the latest happenings at Universal Studios Florida include ongoing events like Halloween Horror Nights and the just-opened Epic Universe that welcomed visitors on May 22, 2025. Meanwhile, other attractions such as M3GAN 2.0 appearances and the brand new DreamWorks Land have recently spiced up the park’s offerings, illustrating the fast-paced evolution of entertainment options at this Florida favorite.

As we bid farewell to Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, fans can hold onto a piece of nostalgia with a special farewell t-shirt available for purchase at Universal Orlando. With change on the horizon, it seems this is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the park.