New 'Rockit' high-tech roller coaster coming to Universal Studios Orlando in 2009

[MickeyMouse]

Scott Powers |Sentinel Staff Writer March 19, 2008



Universal Studios is about to build a new signature ride: a high-tech roller coaster full of lights, music, loops, twists and turns -- and a quick trip over the heads of people walking through the nearby CityWalk entertainment district.

The Hollywood Rip, Ride, Rockit is planned to be big, bright and brash enough to become the new visual symbol for the theme park when the coaster opens in about a year. Universal Orlando officials said Tuesday that it also will feature enough digital technology to appeal directly to what they refer to as the "YouTube culture."

Universal Orlando officials said the coaster will rise 167 feet into the air and feature numerous loops and corkscrew turns. Rockit -- the first big, outdoor thrill ride for Universal Studios -- is set to open in spring 2009.

It will provide another link in Universal Orlando's recent chain of big new attractions. An overhauled version of an old ride, renamed Disaster!, opened in January. The Simpsons Ride, a 3-D fantasy-simulation ride replacing the old Back to the Future, is set to open in a few weeks. And several still-undisclosed attractions are to open together in late 2009 as the "Wizarding World of Harry Potter" in Universal Studios' sister park, Islands of Adventure.

[mkTink]

oooooooooooo this sounds so good! I love coasters

I hoped Harry Potter was going to be ready sooner that that though

[Jodie]

I am def' looking forward to Rockit! In recent months USF have def' upped thier game which can only be good for the guests!



Jodie

[josh.p.]

I can't wait for Rockit and Harry Potter,

[mainecoon lover]

Will look forward to seeing but not riding it in Nov 09. I hope Harry potter will be open as well.

[josh.p.]

Artists Mock-up:

[TiggerD]

Oh this looks good shame harry potter wont be open when we go in August 09