Discovering The Ark Encounter: A Kentucky Hidden Gem [2024]
After years of living close to the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum, we finally embarked on an adventure that exceeded all expectations. Join us on our journey to The Ark Encounter in Williamstown Kentucky, where beautiful grounds, top-notch exhibits, and a warm atmosphere create the backdrop for an extraordinary day.
Embarking on Our Ark Encounter Adventure: Logistics and Access
Before we set foot inside The Ark Encounter, we took care of the essentials by purchasing tickets and a parking pass online. As of the fall of 2023 parking and ticket admission prices ranged from:
- Adults (ages 18 to 59) – $59.95
- Senior (age 59+) – $49.95
- Youth (ages 11 to 17) – $29.95
- Children (ages 0 to 10) – FREE!
- Parking (standard vehicles) – $15.00
The Ark Encounter offers discounts to families on certain days. For example, moms get in free on Mother’s Day! Military discounts are provided as well as a special offer for local residents! Check out these helpful discount tips directly from Answers in Creation!
One thing to note, though, is that outside food and drinks are a no-go on the grounds, so you might want to savor that jumbo Starbucks Frappuccino before you arrive!
Located conveniently within a mile from the highway, The Ark Encounter is a breeze to get to. The parking facilities are impressively accommodating, welcoming not only cars but also larger vehicles like RVs. Parking was a cinch, and the lot provided plenty of spaces to choose from. After parking, the next leg of our journey involved a quick 5-minute shuttle ride to the actual Ark Encounter—a much more convenient option than hoofing it, as walking doesn’t seem to be on the menu.
Revealing The Ark: A Monumental Discovery
From the parking lot, we could catch distant glimpses of The Ark, a massive structure that defied easy judgment of its scale. It was undeniably big, but its true enormity remained elusive from that vantage point.
However, as the bus dropped us off at the entrance and we passed beneath the vibrant Rainbow entry, the realization of The Ark Encounter’s sheer size can only be described as colossal. A short 5 to 10-minute walk brought us face-to-face with this giant modern-day wonder. The Ark loomed above us, an architectural marvel that left us awestruck.
Along this pathway, we encountered several displays that began to unravel the story behind the great flood. Some signs held our attention, offering insights into the narrative, while others we passed by in our eagerness to explore more of this monumental place.
Madeline and Jack both surprised us with their knowledge of the Great Flood. They are both learning about the ark and flood in their religion classes! So our trip helped bring these long-ago events to life!
Stepping Inside The Ark: No Endless Lines Here!
Ever been to an amusement park with lines that wind around barriers, seemingly stretching to infinity? Well, here, at The Ark Encounter, a line does exist, but during our visit, we lucked out—it was a line-free day. Thankfully, we did not have to wait in a never-ending line just to “board” the Ark!
According the to Park’s owner and operator, “over 1 million visitors flock to the Ark each year”. WOW! By comparison, Disney Land pulls in over 18 million visitors per year.
During our visit, the Ark Encounter was busy. I can imagine that during peak season, this place draws crowds that could rival those famous theme park lines!
What is the layout of the Ark?
Technically, the Ark has 4 levels:
- Ground Level – Entry to the Ark
- Level 1 – Exhibits including an introduction to the animals on the Ark, Ark Storage, and Model of the Ark (including the size)
- Level 2 – Pre-flood World Exhibit, Animal Kinds, Examples of the Workshop & Blacksmith Shop, Ark Door
- Level 3 – Living quarters, Arks around the World, The Biblical Authority
Level 1
Uncover the scientific and historical context of the Great Flood. Dive into geological displays, study the flood’s impact on the Earth, and learn about the biblical narrative that inspired this monumental vessel. Level 1 invites you to explore the Ark’s spiritual significance and the enduring story it represents.
On this level of the Ark, visitors see the world that Noah lived in. This definitely seemed like the time of YOLO (you only live once) and the people were living it up! At times, I wondered if our cultures have reverted back to YOLO. Maybe we have a day of reckoning coming?
At other times, I tried to place myself in the shoes of Noah’s neighbors. I can’t imagine looking out of the door of my grass hut and seeing the “crazy” neighbor building this giant boat.
The conviction that Noah and his family had to take on this project is simply amazing!
Level 2
Explore Level 2, where you’ll find a captivating array of exhibits that delve into the logistics of the Ark. From ancient tools to innovative displays on how the animals were cared for, this level offers a deeper understanding of the practical aspects of Noah’s incredible journey.
As we explored Level 2, I was amazed at what some of the animals might have looked like. Since visiting the zoo as a kid, I have certain ideas of exactly what an animal should look like. Seeing slight variations was eye-opening to me.
Level 3
The 3rd level illustrates what Noah’s living quarters may have been like. While this looked nice and I’m sure was better than clinging to driftwood for 40 days of rain, it is a long way to the amenities of a modern cruise ship! As I processed the living conditions I was grateful the Ark Encounter was air-conditioned and had electric light. During Noah’s adventure, the Ark must have been hot, smelly, and dark.
Unearthing Secrets Within: Tailoring Your Ark Encounter Experience
The time you spend on each level of The Ark Encounter is entirely up to your curiosity. Are you the meticulous ‘sign-reader’ or the selective explorer? We fell into the latter category, opting to uncover the museum’s intriguing interpretations.
No matter what type of museum visitor you are, take time to dive into the intriguing aspects of Noah’s life on board, including how he might have managed the animals and waste. Witness lifelike depictions of creatures from Noah’s era, reconstructed from ancient fossil records. We think you too will be amazed by the imagination of the museum designers, as they breathe life into this historical and spiritual voyage.
Our total visit lasted about 3.5 hours from arrival to departure. During our time we felt like we saw everything and certainly had plenty of time to re-visit exhibits that we particularly interesting. We did not, but we could have.
Deciphering The Ark’s Gigantic Proportions
The Ark’s size is nothing short of awe-inspiring. As documented, it stands at a remarkable 300 cubits, each cubit spanning around 20.5 inches. This calculation yields a mind-boggling length of roughly 510 feet!
What if the carpenter responsible for that 20.5-inch forearm had been injured or under the weather? It’s a fascinating thought that highlights the incredible precision required to create this monumental Ark, making you marvel at the craftsmanship behind this ancient marvel.
Truth Traveler: Navigating Noah’s World in Virtual Reality
With excitement running high, our crew dived into the virtual reality experience, eager to step into Noah’s shoes. However, my adventure came to a screeching halt due to vertigo – a setback for the ages.
Our kids and Sara soldiered on, but their verdict was a bit of a rollercoaster. The VR setup featured rooms equipped with four ride-style chairs and VR headsets. Sara and the kids all commented the VR headsets were heavy, clunky, and uncomfortable. It all began with a message from the CEO, which, missed the mark with our crew.
When the Truth Traveler officially got underway, the chairs moved in sync with the video, reminiscent of a budget-friendly Soarin’ at Disney World. Unfortunately, the ‘ride’ turned out to be a bumpy experience that left much to be desired.
In our books, it is rated as ‘just okay.’
At $15 per adult and $10 per child, the value proposition left us with mixed feelings.
What other Experiences should I see at the Ark Encounter?
Definitely take a walk around the grounds. The flowers and landscaping a beautiful!
Ararat Ridge Zoo
The Ararat Ride Zoo was a well-done zoo. Especially for a private park. Now, you will not be confused that this is the Cincinnati Zoo, but the displays are nice, and zookeepers are located on the grounds to answer questions.
Throughout the day zookeepers offer talks about different animals. They frame these discussions through the lens of the Bible. Everything here is through the lens of the Bible. If you are looking for science, this is not your place.
There is no additional charge for Ararat Ridge Zoo! If you wander to the back of the zoo, camel rides are offered and these do have a small fee per rider.
Adventure in the Kids’ Playground: Free Zip Lines Galore
When it comes to adventure, Jack had his sights set on one thing – zip lines. And guess what? He uncovered a hidden gem right in the playground – free zip lines!
But first, let’s talk about the playground itself; it was nothing short of incredible! With super cool slides that promise endless fun and a spongy, soft floor that’s sure to cushion most falls. This playground was designed with one mission in mind – FUN!!
As for those free zip lines, they were the icing on the cake, adding an extra layer of thrill to our visit.
Enjoy the Thrill of the Carousel: Journey of the Animals
Unfortunately, we skipped the carousel. I had to skip because of my vertigo, but it’s too bad we passed on this feature. The carousel opened in 2022 and is included at NO EXTRA Charge.
The Journey of the Animals accommodates up to 43 riders and is even wheelchair-friendly. Pictures of the animals on the carousel are just as wild and creative as the animals inside the Ark!
Take a couple of minutes and check out this one-of-a-kind carousel!
Picture-Perfect Moments Await!
Don’t miss out on fantastic photo opportunities with the Ark! The sheer size of The Ark provides tons of great spots for photos of the wonder!
Make sure to carve out a moment for that epic selfie with The Ark as your backdrop. It’s not just a photo; it’s a memory in the making!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the operating hours of the Ark Encounter?
- Monday through Saturday 9 AM to 6 PM ET
- Closed on Sunday
- Parking opens 30 minutes before the Park opens
What is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
- Visiting on a weekday or early in the morning is a good way to avoid crowds. During our Ark exploration, the Ark felt crowded. We didn’t have to wait in lines, but there were a lot of people on the Ark. We visited on a Saturday afternoon!
Are there any special events or exhibits that change seasonally?
From November through December, the Ark Encounter has special seasonal exhibits for Christmas!
Is The Ark Encounter suitable for all ages?
The Ark is a fantastic destination for guests of all ages! Parents may wish to bring a stroller for younger guests. The 3 levels of the Ark plus the zoo add up to a lot of walking!
Are there guided tours available?
Yes and no. The Ark offers printed guide-along books that can be purchased in advance. Tour companies design specific religious tours that involve the Ark and Creation Museum. These look to be expensive. Our view is you can have a fantastic experience without a guide. The Ark’s design allows for excellent self-guided tours.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the Ark.
Outside of the Ark are several food options!
Emzara’s Kitchen is open for lunch and dinner. Food offerings are served buffet style. Prices range from FREE for kids up to 4 to $16 for Adults. Seniors and Youth are priced slightly lower. With 2 floors for seating, there are plenty of places to grab a table and refuel.
The Village Smokehouse offers pulled pork and BBQ chicken sandwiches.
Southwest Grill has tacos, taco bowls, and churros
Zofar’s has a menu full of typical American grub! Burgers, hot dogs, breadsticks, etc.
Answer Center has a coffee bar. If like me you have vertigo and must skip the Truth Traveler VR, treat yourself to coffee!
Each level of the Ark includes food options. In addition, there are several food options within the park. We did not purchase any food but it all smelled delicious!
What type of clothing is best for the Ark Encounter?
Comfy shoes are a must! Your step count is going to be huge, so keep your feet happy.
Wear comfortable clothing. Keep in mind the Ark Encounter is a mix of indoor and outdoor exhibits. Inside is air-conditioned, but can be warm with all the visitors! Pro-Tip: Layers are always a good option. The long-sleeved shirt can be tied around your waist when visiting the outdoor exhibits!
Does the Ark Encounter have a gift shop?
We love buying tee shirts or other mementos from places we visit. While we dislike going through gift shops, we find they are necessary to help us find the perfect item to remember our experience!
The Ark Encounter has a gift shop at the end of the tour that visitors walk through before exiting. Gifts included the standard tee-shirts, coffee mugs, and other branded items as well as books about the Ark, the history of the Great Flood, etc. You are sure to find the perfect item to remember your visit to the Ark Encounter!
What are the Best RV Campgrounds near the Ark Encounter?
- Great question! We love RV camping and recently wrote an article about the 5 Best Campgrounds near the Ark Encounter!
How close is the Ark Encounter to Large Cities?
- Are you planning a trip to Louisville Kentucky, Cincinnati Ohio, or nearby Lexington Kentucky? Make sure the Ark Encounter is on your list of must-see venues!
- The Ark Encounter is conveniently located near many major cities including:
- Cincinnati – 45 minutes
- Lexington – 45 minutes
- Louisville – 90 minutes
- Indianapolis – 2.5 hours
- Knoxville – 3 hours
- Nashville – 4 hours
Explore Great Attractions Near the Ark Encounter
- Creation Museum:
- Located just a short drive from The Ark Encounter, the Creation Museum offers a captivating exploration of biblical history and the origins of life. Visitors can delve into interactive exhibits, dinosaur displays, and a planetarium, making it an ideal companion visit for those interested in a deeper understanding of biblical narratives.
- Big Bone Lick State Historic Site:
- Approximately 30 minutes north of The Ark Encounter, Big Bone Lick State Historic Site is a fascinating destination for history and paleontology enthusiasts. This site is renowned for its significant fossil discoveries, including the remains of ancient mammoths and other Ice Age creatures. Visitors can explore the museum, hiking trails, and outdoor exhibits that shed light on prehistoric Kentucky. Take a read through our recent article about camping at Big Bone Lick State Historic Site.
- Cincinnati, Ohio:
- For those looking to venture a bit further, Cincinnati, Ohio, is a vibrant city with a range of attractions. Explore the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, home to a diverse array of animals and lush gardens. Additionally, the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal offers interactive exhibits and historical insights. Cincinnati is also known for its scenic parks, riverfront views, and delicious dining options, making it a great day trip or extended visit for Ark Encounter travelers.
Other Resources
Are you looking to visit Kentucky? Louisville is a great place to call your home base for your vacation. Check out our ultimate resource on 27-Day Trips from Louisville that You Will Love in 2024.
Wrapping it Up: Discovering the Ark Encounter Was a Day Filled with Family Fun!
Discovering the Ark Encounter was an awe-inspiring journey filled with wonder and enlightenment.
From the moment we stepped onto the enchanting grounds to our exploration of the colossal Ark, many aspects of this hidden gem exceeded our expectations. As we uncovered the secrets within and ventured through its levels, we marveled at the craftsmanship and historical significance.
Our exploration experience left us with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for Noah’s journey and the Ark Encounter. If you seek a remarkable adventure, consider discovering the Ark Encounter in Williamstown, Kentucky, and embark on a voyage of biblical proportions.
About Us:
Our Campfire Unplugged is written by Mike and Sara about our adventures as we travel around our great country in our 5th-wheel RV! Our goal is to share the hidden gems America has to offer and to inspire our readers to explore the world around them!
