A new permit filed with the South Florida Water Management District (SFWD) supports rumors that Universal Orlando Resort will demolish Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit.
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Permit
The permit was filed on December 23, 2024. The project description states Universal will “Remove existing attraction and replace with proposed attraction”. The engineering firm listed is McIntosh Associates, an LJA Company. The project location encompasses all of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and some backstage areas.
Another document shows before and after images of the proposed site modifications, which involve adjustments to the water basin. A small structure is proposed on the right side of the image and two new larger buildings are on the left. One building is in the park’s New York area, while another is in an area currently backstage.
Earlier this year, we reported on rumors that Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit would close permanently. An October permit filed by Universal contracted Intamin for unknown work and sources told us the coaster manufacturer would craft a new ride to replace Rip Ride Rockit. Intamin also recently created Universal’s Jurassic World VelociCoaster.
Maurer Söhne constructed Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, which opened at Universal Studios Florida in 2009. The coaster features a non-inverted loop and a 90-degree angle climb to the launch, creating an iconic shape often used in skyline-style art on Universal merchandise. Riders get to pick their ride soundtrack from a list of songs. There were once over 30 official songs to choose from, plus a secret list. The choices were cut down to just five songs in late 2023.
Is Rip Ride Rockit a favorite of yours? Will you be sad to see it go? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
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