A fan-favorite ride from Universal, the Rip Ride Rockit (RRR), was initially introduced to the public on Aug. 19, 2009, and has recently been closed down to be reconstructed on Aug. 18, 2025. Universal announced its plans to revamp the RRR into a new experience for future visitors.
Although there isn’t an exact reason for its removal, fans suspect that the closure might have been due to technical issues, the ride’s maturity, and visitors’ feedback. Universal has taken this feedback and decided to replace the RRR with another roller coaster that will offer a more scenic view of the park, providing guests with a better experience.
Pembroke Pines Charter High School (PPCHS) sophomore Maya Hansford expresses, “It’ll be better to remove [the ride] because of complaints and safety hazards. [Its removal] is sad, but I’m sure it’s [necessary].”
In 2013, a technical issue 140 feet up in the vertical lift raised concerns about rider safety. Fortunately, Universal engineers and the fire department safely evacuated everyone after being stranded for two hours. In 2025, right before closure, the coaster became stuck again at the top of the hill for roughly 10 minutes. This final incident convinced Universal Studios that it was time to announce the ending of the RRR.
Universal likely intends to build a greater rollercoaster to attract many more guests, only this time it will be more modern, better maintained, and more enjoyable. However, this wouldn’t be the first time Universal has closed down a fan favorite experience; Jaws, a beloved attraction based on the 1975 movie, was replaced by the Wizarding World’s Diagon Alley.
Others will mourn the demolition of Rip Ride Rockit, remembering it as one of the most exciting rides in the park. PPCHS sophomore Ellie Lopez says, “I’m upset because it was a thrilling ride and it had a rush, which made it fun, and [I don’t recall] it being bumpy or unsafe.”
When the RRR broke records upon its release, standing at 167 feet tall and gliding at 65 mph, it made it the fastest ride in Florida at the time. Additionally, riders had the option to select their own exclusive soundtrack from a variety of music genres, ranging from rock, hip-hop, country, and pop.
Although multiple students have expressed their opinions, it’s clear that this ride left a strong impression on various visitors at Universal. With its speed, height, and unique music, the ride allowed visitors to have fun in their own creative way.
Despite its closure marking the end of an era, the anticipation of what will replace it shows that fans are ready for Universal to revamp this ride into something better, bringing a new memorable thrill and delivering another unforgettable experience.
