Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit: Ultimate Guide & Ride Secrets [2024]
Is the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit a roller coaster worth braving? For thrill-seekers visiting Universal Studios Florida in Orlando, the answer is a resounding yes, despite some minor drawbacks in the ride experience itself.
The Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, a prominent fixture in the New York area of Universal Studios Florida, presents a unique roller coaster experience, setting itself apart from the more commonplace rides found elsewhere. From the moment you spot its imposing structure from the parking garage, to the instant you're strapped in, ready to select your soundtrack, the ride promises an unforgettable adventure. This steel coaster, which officially debuted on August 19, 2009, offers a musical twist that amplifies the thrill: as you prepare for the launch, you choose the song that will accompany your screams.
The coaster's initial climb is a defining feature: a breathtaking 167-foot vertical ascent at a 90-degree angle. This upward journey, accomplished at a rate of 11 feet per second, propels riders to a height of 17 stories, making it the highest coaster in Orlando. Following this climb, the descent begins, sending riders plummeting at speeds up to 65 mph. The ride incorporates seven maneuvers, three of which were original at the time of the coaster's creation, and it's designed to handle a high capacity, theoretically accommodating around 1,850 riders per hour, due to its ability to run multiple trains simultaneously.
But how does it stack up against the competition, and what can you expect when you step onto the set of your own music video? Here is a deeper look at the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit:
| Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit: Essential Facts | |
|---|---|
| Location: | Universal Studios Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA |
| Type: | Steel Roller Coaster |
| Opening Date: | August 19, 2009 (Officially) |
| Height: | 167 feet (51 m) |
| Speed: | Up to 65 mph (105 km/h) |
| Drop Angle: | 90 degrees |
| Ride Duration: | Approximately 1 minute, 30 seconds |
| Track Length: | 3,800 feet (1,158 m) |
| Manufacturer: | Premier Rides |
| Unique Features: | Vertical lift hill, on-ride music selection, unique maneuvers |
| Height Requirement: | 48 inches (122 cm) |
| Inversions: | None |
| Capacity: | Approximately 1,850 riders per hour (theoretical) |
| Location in Park: | New York area |
| Featured Music: | Riders choose their own music from a variety of genres |
| Official Website Reference: | Universal Orlando Resort |
The Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit story began in March 2008 when Universal Studios Florida announced its construction. Originally planned to open in the spring of 2009, the debut was slightly delayed. Technical rehearsals for the ride began on the evening of August 15, 2009, with the official opening occurring a few days later. The coaster was designed to compete with other large-scale roller coasters globally, aiming to provide guests with a unique and thrilling experience.
What truly sets the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit apart is the integration of music. As you wait in the queue, you're introduced to the wide range of music genres available for selection. This allows each rider to customize their ride experience, creating a personal soundtrack to their adventure. This element makes the ride unique; the music selection isn't just a background element but an integral part of the overall thrill.
The ride's unique elements don't stop with music. The layout incorporates a variety of dips and curves, delivering a dynamic experience without inversions. It's this design that allows the ride to deliver its adrenaline rush. You're strapped in, ready for a climb that culminates in a nearly 90-degree ascent before the drop at 65 mph.
The question of how intense the drop is on Rip Ride Rockit often arises among potential riders. The general consensus is that the drop itself, while significant, isn't the most extreme aspect of the ride. Many find the initial burst of speed during the launch phase, at the beginning of the ride, to be the most intense experience. The moment at the peak of the drop, some riders have stated, provides a momentary respite before the remainder of the ride.
Compared to other roller coasters, such as Mako at SeaWorld Orlando or the Velocicoaster in Universal's Islands of Adventure, Rip Ride Rockit provides a different flavor of thrill. The drop on Rip Ride Rockit is not as high as that of Mako, which has a 200-foot drop. However, the overall experience is intense.
To prepare yourself for the ride, it's advisable to empty your pockets and store all loose belongings in a locker, as required by the attraction. A metal detector is present at the entrance to ensure safety and compliance with the rules. This attention to detail helps ensure a secure and enjoyable ride for everyone.
Many find the initial launch and the high speeds more challenging than the drop. When you get on, observing those who are getting off the ride can help manage any psychological concerns. The ride is designed to be a fun coaster, and the lack of inversions is often a comfort for some riders. The Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit's height of 167 feet, along with its speed reaching 65 mph, positions it as a significant attraction.
The Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is considered a major attraction at Universal Studios, known for its twists and turns and the option to choose your own music. The ride is nearly impossible to miss, being visible from the parking garage and throughout the theme park. It is a steel coaster with dips and curves, offering a thrilling experience without the need for inversions. The attraction's location in the New York area of Universal Studios adds to the immersive experience.
Although many consider Velocicoaster to be more intense than other Universal rides like The Mummy or Hagrids, the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit offers a thrilling experience in its own right. It's a divisive ride, and possibly in Orlando. Some find the drop on the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit not very intense. The ability to choose your music, the unique maneuvers, and the ride's overall design contribute to an unforgettable experience.
The coaster has seven maneuvers, three of which were innovative for the time. These maneuvers combined with the height of 167 feet make for a rollercoaster experience unlike anything else.
For those considering the ride, it is essential to meet the height requirements (10+) to enjoy the experience. Although the drop might be the most talked-about aspect, the intensity of the ride is more profound in the initial launch phase.
Ultimately, the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit offers a ride filled with twists, turns, and a unique musical experience. It fills several needs at Universal Studios, providing thrill and fun for all. So, sit back, enjoy the ride and don't be concerned about inversions!
