Goodbye Hollywood Rip-Ride Rockit: Permits reveal the planned removal of Universal Studios rollercoaster
Universal plans to replace Rip Ride Rockit!
Matthew Miller, Senior Director at The Orlando Informer, joins FOX 35's Garrett Wymer after Universal Orlando filed plans to replace Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. The plans are not surprising, and the pair look into what could be next for their New York City area of Universal Studios.
ORLANDO, Fla. - According to newly filed permits, Universal Orlando has plans to demolish Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and replace the attraction with a new and larger concept. The 15-year-old Universal Studios Florida roller coaster, which first opened in August 2009, has had many predictions of its closure for a number of years now.
ORLANDO, FLORIDA - JULY 24: A general view of the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit rollercoaster following the Premier League Summer Series Legends 5v5 at Universal Studios on July 24, 2023 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images for Premi
Recently filed water drainage permits with the South Florida Water Management District show the company's plans for the space.
The project, encompassing 6.27 acres, includes the removal of the existing ride and the construction of new structures, with two larger buildings planned for the park's New York section.
One of these buildings is expected to occupy part of the extended queue area for the Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon attraction.
ORLANDO, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 27: 2018 NASCAR Xfinity Series Champion Tyler Reddick rides the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit in Universal Studios at Universal Orlando Resort on November 27, 2018 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)
The permits, filed on December 23, 2024, indicate that the project is currently under review, with a decision deadline set for January 22, 2025.
A recent Notice of Commencement listed Intamin, a renowned roller coaster manufacturer, as the contractor for upcoming work at Universal Studios Florida. Intamin is currently involved in projects such as the How to Train Your Dragon-themed coaster at Epic Universe and the Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift coaster at Universal Studios Hollywood.
As the project awaits approval, further details are anticipated to emerge in early 2025.
Universal Orlando has not yet announced a closing date for the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit or provided specifics about its replacement.