Rumors can ruin a Disney trip before you even get there.
You may have heard whispers that Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is already closed for its big reimagining. That’s not true — yet. In fact, you can still ride it for a while longer, and if you’re visiting before 2026, you absolutely should keep it on your plans. Here’s the scoop on what’s really happening and how to make the most of your time before the big change.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Isn’t Done Rockin’ Yet
For months, fans have been bracing themselves for the day Disney shuts down Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster for its highly anticipated transformation. Disney has announced the Aerosmith version will remain open into 2026 before closing for its reimagining into Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets.
This means if you’re visiting in 2025, you still have time to step into that iconic stretch limo and blast off through Hollywood at 60 mph with Steven Tyler and the gang. The ride is not on borrowed days just yet — it still has, at least, the rest of this year left to thrill guests before the soundtrack changes from classic rock riffs to Muppet mayhem.
What’s Changing in 2026
Here’s what’s confirmed: Disney has set the ride’s closure for sometime in 2026, with the new Muppet version opening later that year. We’re anticipating the reimagining to take about six months (though projects like this sometimes take longer). If all goes as planned, Aerosmith will play its final show in early 2026, and the Muppets will premiere by the end of the year.
This timeline is important for trip planners because many people have been scratching the ride off their itineraries in the later parts of 2025, thinking it’s already gone — but they’d be missing out on one of the park’s top thrill rides.
Why You Should Still Ride the Original
There’s a reason Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster has held its spot in Hollywood Studios for over two decades. The launch is still one of the most intense in all of Disney World, the upside-down loops are unexpected for a Disney park, and the ride’s indoor track means you can escape Florida’s heat while getting an adrenaline rush.
The Aerosmith theming may feel a little dated for some younger visitors, but the combination of high-speed thrills and music blasting in your ears is timeless. Plus, with the closure officially pushed back, it’s a rare chance to enjoy the original knowing exactly when its encore will be.
Planning Tips to Maximize Your Ride Time
Since Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is still a headliner, it regularly pulls long wait times, especially in the afternoon. If you want to ride without spending 90 minutes in the queue, rope dropping the ride is one of the best strategies. That means arriving before park opening and heading straight there.
You could also try riding late in the evening before park close when wait times tend to drop. Another option is to watch the weather — rainy afternoons can sometimes lead to shorter lines for indoor coasters.
Even though Lightning Lanes for this ride can sometimes be hard to snag, they’re worth grabbing if available. With no single rider option, standby is your main alternative, so a little strategy goes a long way.
Enjoy It While It Lasts
Whether you’re an Aerosmith fan or not, riding the original Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster before it transforms is like catching the final season of a classic TV show before a reboot. You get to experience it as it’s been for years while looking forward to the excitement of what’s next.
For long-time visitors, this is also your last chance to relive the version you’ve known for decades. The stretch limo launch, the neon street signs, and the familiar soundtrack will all be part of Disney history soon enough.
The Bottom Line
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is NOT closed yet. We’re expecting to hear that its closure date will be in the first half of 2026, with the Muppet version opening later that year. That gives you plenty of time to work it into your Hollywood Studios day, but don’t wait too long — a year and a half can fly by faster than a 0-to-60 launch.
So if you’re booking your trip for the next year or so, keep this ride on your list. Don’t let a bad rumor rob you of one of the most thrilling rides Disney World has to offer.
Keep following AllEars for more Disney news and updates!
Land Hopping Is About to Get COMPLICATED in Hollywood Studios
Will you be riding the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith before the end of the year? Tell us in the comments!
October and December trips plan to ride as many times as we can wish Disney would open there eyes why mess with something that works muppets really