Universal Studios Hollywood has surprised guests by opening its high-speed roller coaster, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, for technical rehearsals. This new attraction, known for its intensity, can reach speeds of up to 72 mph. It features multiple inversions and vehicles that rotate 360 degrees, making it the fastest coaster designed by Universal Creative.
Currently, the ride is not operating fully. Technical rehearsals, often seen as a soft opening, are ongoing, meaning the attraction is still being evaluated. During this time, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift may not always be operational when you visit the park. Universal has not set an official grand opening date yet, so if experiencing the ride is crucial to your visit, it might be wise to wait for a formal announcement.
“It wouldn’t be your first choice,” says Jon Corfino, Universal Studios Hollywood’s lead creative, referring to the ride’s topography. “But in a way, it makes it more dynamic that we were able to do it.”
The creation of Hollywood Drift has been a decade-long process. It stands out due to its unique placement between the park’s upper and lower lots, traversing the steep terrain and extending over the park’s famous escalators. While the ride’s dynamic nature excites many, some local residents have expressed concerns about noise, likening the screams from riders to unsettling scenarios. Discussions continue between the community, Universal Studios, and Los Angeles County representatives regarding these concerns.
While Hollywood Drift focuses on exhilarating speed and unique features, the ride design adds another layer of distinctiveness. Riders sit in mini cars with detailed aesthetics and sound effects, enhancing the immersive experience. Jon Corfino notes the intensity that riders will feel during the experience. However, speed might overshadow some of these details during the ride.
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Other Theme Park News
At Disneyland, history enthusiasts have a chance to own a piece of the park’s past. Items like a glass slide from the Haunted Mansion’s Medusa portrait are available for auction. The upcoming Disney Experiences Auction by Heritage Auctions will occur during the D23 fan convention next month, with online bidding already open.
As Halloween approaches, Universal Studios Hollywood is preparing for Halloween Horror Nights, starting September 3. The latest addition, a new haunted house titled Dead, Deader, Deadest, draws from original concepts and adds intrigue to the event. It’s set in a funeral home revolving around a “miracle drug.” This continues the tradition of unique Halloween experiences at the park.
In other news, Walt Disney Co. has expanded its partnership with Kraft Heinz, resulting in more products like Heinz and Kraft Mac & Cheese available in their theme parks and cruise ships across the U.S.
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