Orlando, Tuesday, 19 August 2025.
Universal Studios Florida is set to permanently retire the legendary Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster on August 18, 2025, marking the end of a 16-year thrill ride era. Known for its unique musical experience where riders could choose their soundtrack while traversing a 51m-tall track at 65 mph, the attraction has been a park landmark since 2009. The closure signals Universal’s strategic attraction refresh, creating anticipation for a yet-to-be-announced replacement. This retirement comes shortly after the opening of Epic Universe, Universal’s newest theme park, suggesting a broader transformation of the resort’s entertainment landscape. Fans are invited to take their final rides, with some commemorative experiences planned to celebrate the coaster’s memorable history.
Ride Specifications and Technical Legacy
The Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, designed by German ride manufacturer Maurer, stood as an engineering marvel at 167 ft (51 m) tall when it debuted in 2009 [1]. As the tallest X-Car coaster built by Maurer at the time, the attraction featured a distinctive 3,800 ft (1,200 m) track capable of reaching speeds up to 65 mph [1]. Its most innovative feature was the personalized musical experience, allowing riders to select from five genre-specific soundtracks played through individual speakers, creating a unique interactive thrill ride [1].
Final Days and Fan Farewell
On Sunday, August 17, 2025, fans gathered to experience their final rides, many wearing commemorative ‘Farewell Tour 2025’ T-shirts [4]. Universal provided a nostalgic touch by offering riders a free commemorative guitar pick as a memento of the attraction’s 16-year history [4]. The closure, announced in December 2024, comes as part of Universal’s strategic park development plan [1].
Context of Theme Park Evolution
The ride’s retirement follows closely after the grand opening of Epic Universe, Universal’s newest 750-acre theme park that debuted in late May 2025 [1]. This new park introduces several innovative roller coaster experiences, including Curse of the Werewolf, Starfall Racers, Mine-Cart Madness, and Hiccup’s Wing Gliders [1]. Universal Parks & Resorts Chairman Tom Williams noted the retirement is part of an ongoing effort to ‘enhance the guest experience’ at Universal Studios Florida [6].
Bronnen