Potential Reopening Date Revealed for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster; Could a New Theme Still Happen?

One of the most popular thrill rides at the Walt Disney World Resort has been closed for refurbishment since February 21, 2023, with only a vague reopening timeframe confirmed so far.

A new update, however, suggests when the attraction could reopen, though this may not be enough time for it to receive the new theme fans have been asking for.

RELATED: Could This Band Replace Aerosmith at Disney’s Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster?

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith at Disney’s Hollywood Studios has been a hot topic for Guests lately as many have speculated that a new theme is in the works for the attraction. The ride, which takes Guests from 0 to 60 MPH in an exciting 2.8-second launch has been themed to Aerosmith since it opened in 1999, but several rumors and fan theories have continued to push for a replacement over the years.

All Disney attractions close for refurbishments from time to time so Disney can complete necessary maintenance work, and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster was originally scheduled to be closed from February 21, 2023, to a reopening date yet to be confirmed this summer.

As of this writing, Disney’s official website notes:

Beginning February 21, 2023, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith will be temporarily closed for refurbishment. This rocktastic attraction will resume its super-stretch limo rides in summer 2023.

RELATED: Refurbishments Are Underway at ANOTHER Disney Resort

When could Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster reopen?

Officially, Disney has not confirmed when Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster will reopen, but we may have one clue. Inside the Magic pointed out an interesting point in the My Disney Experience app, noting that refurbishments are listed under the Park Hours tab and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster’s refurb is not noted after July 1, 2023.

In the past, we have spotted some reopening dates through this method and through the calendar on the individual attraction page on Disney’s website, before the Resort makes an official statement. As of this writing, hours for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster specifically are not listed beyond June 23. When July hours are added to Disney’s website, if times are noted for July 1, this would support the possibility of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster opening by this date.

What are the possible rethemes for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster?

Remember, Disney has not confirmed that a retheme of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is actually happening. But if you’re up for a change and are curious about what the top contenders seem to be, here’s what we know.

A rumor from Ken Marino, an actor featured in the current attraction’s pre-show has hinted at knowing that Queen might take over for Aerosmith. And while some vans have shared their hopes for a Queen retheme as well, it seems many Disney fans are on board for a Powerline update, too.

Powerline, the pop singer featured in A Goofy Movie (1995) has been included at Walt Disney World more often than ever before in recent years. Max as Powerline opened for Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade at last year’s Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in the Magic Kingdom. And right at Hollywood Studios, Guests visiting the Park today can experience a character meet and greet with Max as Powerline. As such, it is always possible that Disney has been “testing” the character to see how a retheme of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster would be received.

Without official confirmation of both a new theme or an opening date for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, we can only speculate on what the ride will be like this summer at this time. As always though, be sure to check back here on Disney Tips for all the latest updates on Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and other attractions around Walt Disney World.