Be Amazed at the Ark Encounter
Experience the Biblical Story of the Ark Encounter
Be amazed as the Bible comes to life! Step inside the awe-inspiring Ark Encounter located in Williamstown, Kentucky. Here you’ll experience and tour the life size model replicating the massive proportions of the Ark. Located near Cincinnati, Ohio this 7 story tall Ark has hands on interactive exhibits answering many science and historical questions from the biblical account of Noah and the Great Flood.
Massive Ark
Our family of 6, recently visited the ark while vacationing on spring break. To split up the return drive home, our family decided to plan a surprise stop. Overall, we were highly impressed by the Ark Encounter, which we visited with 4 children ranging in ages from 4-10. Here is our full review with tips and recommendations to help plan your visit.
What To Expect When Visiting The Ark Encounter
Inside the Ark
We allotted at least 3-5 hours to explore the Ark Encounter. Depending on if you visit during the week or weekend, you may experience some lines. Although we visited on a Friday afternoon in April and had no wait.
Besides featuring the enormous ark with three levels, the park also has a number of other interactive experiences including the Ararat Ridge Zoo, an impressive kid’s outdoor playground, ziplines, many food venues, and a virtual experience. Did I mention kids 10 and under are free in 2023!
Parking Fee
$15 vehicle/ $20 oversized vehicles
The entrance gates open 30 minutes before the Ark Encounter opens. After parking in the spacious parking area, you will get in line at the ticket counters to purchase entry tickets. Next to the ticket booth area, the buses are waiting to transport visitors to the park entrance. Upon arriving, we immediately purchased our tickets, with no line whatsoever! With tickets in hand we quickly loaded onto the bus where the friendly driver took us the short distance to the entrance road for the ark encounter. The bus system was efficient and the process went smoothly. Make sure to bring whatever you need with you because you won’t want to go back to your vehicle till you are exiting.
Ark Encounter Pricing
One of the best deals currently for 2023 is that children under 10 are free! This was a huge incentive for our family, since all 4 of my children fall into this category. They also have a deal that 1 child ticket is free with 1 paying adult ticket. Plus there are special rates for certain days like Father’s Day/ Mother’s Day.
General Admission to the Ark
Adult (ages 18–59): $59.95
Senior (ages 60+): $49.95
Youth (ages 11–17)” $29.95
Children (10 and under): FREE
Getting There
Driving to the Ark
The Ark is located off 1-75 which is easily accessible. It also makes it a great stop on a road trip. We used it as a fun adventure to break up the long drive on the way home from a Family Trip to the Smokey Mountains, Tennessee while returning home to Michigan.
Closest Airport to the Ark Encounter
Planning to fly in and rent a car. There are several options of nearby airports.
Lexington Airport(LEX) Approx. 55 miles away.
Louisville International Airport (SDF) Approx. 90 miles away
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport (CVG) is about 35 miles from the Ark and is the larger airport.
Lodging/ Nearby Places to Stay
The Ark Encounter has minimal lodging next to the park. Cincinnati is the closest large city, about 40 minute drive which offers tons of lodging options.
We stayed at the Home 2 Suites by Hilton, which had an indoor pool and a great open area near the lobby with TVs and large tables, which we took advantage of. Included in our stay was a nice selection for their continental breakfast with omelets, bacon, and chocolate waffles (the highlight for my kids!) Check for the best deals at Booking.com
Family-Friendly Nearby Hotels to the Ark:
Hampton Inn & Suites Williamstown Located near the ark, it’s a family-friendly hotel featuring an indoor swimming pool and continental breakfast.
America’s Best Value Inn & Suites Williamston This nearby hotel is budget-friendly with an outdoor pool and an onsite Mexican restaurant, for those loving authentic Mexican food.
The Ark
Okay okay, so let’s get to the main attraction, THE ARK! The show stopper of the entire park, the ark is definitely the reason for journeying to visit. I was highly impressed with the big reveal. While you are being bussed to the park entrance, the ark is obscured behind trees, which really heightens the anticipation. As you exit the bus a wall spans the outer area and an arched towering rainbow marks the entrance.
As you walk through the rainbow, your first glimpse of the ark comes into view. I’ll admit it gave me all the emotions, especially as I read the verse etched into the stone at the rainbow arch. The promise of Genesis 9:13, “I have set my rainbow in the clouds.” declares his faithfulness to mankind.
If you’re like me, you might have grown up being told the ark was a football field and half in length. But my finite mind struggles to fathom something that size. As we approached and stood under the stern of the boat the sheer enormity was quite astonishing. The ark towers at 51 feet high, spanning an impressive distance of 510 feet long and 85 feet wide. Pictures can’t quite show the magnitude compared to when you’re standing in front of the massive structure. Whether you’re a religious person or not, everyone will admittedly be impressed while beholding the largest wooden framed boat in the world.
Upon entering the ark, a long inclined ramp leads up into the main level. At this point you have multiple options since the Ark is divided into three levels. Luckily, the wooden ark has modern day conveniences, with heat and air conditioning, so it can be comfortably enjoyed in all seasons. Restrooms and drink stations are also available inside.
1st Level The main entrance is on the first floor. Inside they have simulated thundering rain noises and dark lantern lit interiors to help create the ambience of stormy seas. Here you will see life-like animals in cages as well as the ark storage system. A miniature replica of the Ark is also quite interesting to see on this level.
Kids Spooky Animal Encounter
2nd Level
A great place to get an overview of the Pre- flood world through interactive exhibits that walk you through the biblical events leading up to the flood.
My kids especially loved the exhibit, Kid’s Spooky Animal Encounter, which allows you to imagine what it would be like at night with all the animals eyes peering out amongst the dimly lit interior. This level also features a gift shop, Who was Noah, his study, and the Fairy Tale Ark Exhibit.
3rd Level This level showcases the Days of Noah Theater and holds the representations of the living quarters for Noah’s family. On the third level the exhibits delves into answering common historical questions, the flood geology and legends.
A Deeper Spiritual Experience Inside the Ark
The longer I live, the fewer things tend to awe and inspire me. Yet as we walked through this lantern lit, massive wooden boat with simulated storm noises reverberating off the walls, I couldn’t help but allow my imagination to wander. As a young child reading the biblical story of Noah and the ark in Genesis, I’d often imagine Noah trying to gather all the animals. I honestly never stopped to contemplate what would have been like inside the ark.
This unique experiences does just that! It heightens your imagination and offers you the wonder of stepping into a world thousands of years ago to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of what it would be like to live on the ark for 40 days.
I challenge you to envision the heavy gates closing with a resounding finality, and contemplate what thoughts were running through Noah’s mind. As rain pounded down and the ark began to lift, what emotions surged inside.
For years and years, Noah toiled away at one monumental task, and when it finally came to fruition what did he feel; excitement, fear, trepidation? What gut wrenching agony he must have experienced as the voices of so many perished. Did he feel an overwhelming gratitude at God’s mercy for his family and faithfulness to keep his promises?
Interior of the ark
Then day after day of relentless rocking followed, the moaning and creaking of the wooden vessel, the storm raging around as the waves barraged the wooden structure. When the storm slowly subsided, the noises were replaced by the constant melee of animals braying, roaring and barking.
Could I have been so faithful to work for years constructing this massive boat and then in the midst of the flood, faithfully trust in God? Can I trust Him in the midst of the storms I face in my life now? Maybe this experience can propel you to reflect on God’s undeserved favor in your life as he remains with you even as the storm rages.
Yes, the experience may meet your expectations of interesting facts and enjoyable activities. Just a one time event that helps answer some questions or gets you pondering. Or maybe, just maybe, it could be a spiritual experience and time to connect with the all-knowing, all-powerful, loving God. I’d highly recommend before visiting take the time to really seek Him. Hopefully the experience will deepen your faith as you walk in the sandals of Noah and his family.
Playground
Playground at the Ark Encounter
WOW! The outdoor playground was next level. One of our family’s favorite parts of the entire trip was the expansive, modern playground. A large two-tier play structure is the focal point of the playground. Add several zip-lines, slides, saucer swings, tunnels and even a handicap accessible swing helps foster play for everyone
A colorful maze for kids and a separate play structure for younger children make it ideal for all ages. A whale formed into the ground with a tunnel underneath adds to the ark theme. After an hour of playing, I finally had to drag my children away so we could head to the actual ark. My children begged to head back to the playground after touring the ark and zoo.
Ararat Ridge Zoo
Included in your ticket price is a separate area that is home to 200 live animals. Families can venture right into the outdoor Ararat Ridge Zoo and view a variety of animals from camels, ostriches, zebras, donkeys, and llamas. Allow ample time to see all of the animals during your stay. Want the full experience, for an additional fee you can even ride camels.
Ararat Zoo
During our visit, I had my kids try to imagine the smells and noises of all these animals from the zoo on an enclosed boat.
Zipline at the Ark Encounter
Truth Traveler: A Virtual Reality Experience
This multi-sensory experience shows the ark getting built, depicts the flood experience and people loading into the ark. Take note this virtual experience is an additional cost and is not included with the entry fee. Due to time restrictions we did not have enough time for the virtual experience.
$14.99 (11 and up)
$9.99 (10 and under)
Eagel Aerial Adventure Ziplines
Soar across the sky on the screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures which is a fun experience at the Ark Encounter. Featuring Zipline Tours, Aerial Adventures, and Free Falls you are sure to have a memorable time. Trained staff will help you experience this thrilling adventure. Rates start at 17.99+ and go up depending on which experience you choose.
Carousel: Journey Of The Animals
The newest attraction to debut at the ark encounter is the Carousel Journey of the Animals. The indoor themed carousel is included with the cost of admission. Created in Italy, it is a beautiful addition for families to expand their experience! With intricate art work and correlating themes of the variety of animals on the ark. The rides are approximately two minutes in length. Thirty-seven visitors can ride at one time, with standing space for an additional six extra riders.
Creation Museum Newest Addition
If you also visit the Creation Museum during your stay, another new addition is the Fearfully and Wonderfully Made exhibit, which focuses on celebrating the value of life. Detailed infant models, special effects, and biblical and scientific teaching will expand your view of how the Master Creator knit you together in your mothers’ womb.
Food Options
Outside food is allowed inside the Ark Encounter, so pack your own snacks, drinks or even lunch if you want to save money. On each level of the ark you will find drink and snack stands in case you get the munchies during your tour. Of course, what’s a gift shop without tempting treats. Both Uncle Leroy’s Fudge and Kezia’s Coffee offer additional options to satisfy your sweet tooth.
There is a wide variety of food’s available inside the park. Expect elevated prices of a typical theme park. Hours vary for each restaurant. As far as seating there is ample picnic tables located on the grounds.
Emzara’s Kitchen
Next to the ark, the main indoor restaurant is Emzara’s Kitchen. This 2 story themed restaurant offers a buffet with a variety of delicious entrees, salads, drinks and desserts (including dietary restriction options).
Hours: Mon - Sat 11- 6 pm, Sun Closed.
Prices
Adult and Youth (ages 11–59)
$16.99 Senior (age 60+)
$14.99 Child (ages 5–10)$8.994 and
Under (ages 0–4)Free
Seasonal Outdoor Eating Options
The Village Smokehouse
The place to go if you desire smoked beef sandwiches and delicious pulled pork.
Southwest Grill
Enjoy Southwest inspired dishes including street tacos, walking tacos, and taco bowls. Open Wed- Sat 11-3 pm, Sun- Tues Closed
Zofar’s
Offering classic American entrees of burgers, hot dogs, pizza, breadsticks, and more. Open Mon - Sat 11-7 p.m. Sunday Closed
Answer’s Center
Located in the Answer’s Center is a selection of breakfast foods in the morning and then afterwards drinks, sandwiches, wraps, salads, and snacks are available at the Olive Leaf Café. Noah’s Coffee provides options for hot and iced coffees, cappuccinos, hot teas, and smoothies inside the Answer’s Center.
Tips for Visiting the Ark
1. Prior to visiting, take the opportunity to read the biblical account found in Genesis 7 to familiarize yourself with the facts, so it’s fresh in your mind. We also enjoyed watching the movies Evan Almighty and Two by Two, which fostered conversations about the facts found in the Bible compared to people’s interpretation or movies based off this event. Before going take time to imagine and discuss with your children what it would be like on the ark? What would it sound like or smell like? What noises would you hear? What would the atmosphere be like inside the boat?
2. Go late or early to avoid crowds. We went on a Friday afternoon at 3:00pm, spending three hours at the museum. We hit the playground first since we were driving on a return trip from Tennessee to Michigan. It made a great stop because it’s close to I-75. If you’re traveling through Cincinnati this is ideal for stretching your legs since there is a lot of walking and activities.
3. Wear comfortable shoes. We walked over 3.5 miles during our visit and close to 8,000 steps in three hours. If you have young children a stroller would be beneficial.
4. Bring snacks and water bottles, which you can fill up inside at the drink stations. There are numerous picnic tables and outdoor seating, as well as, multiple restaurant options from ice cream stores, Mexican, and even Esperanza’s buffet.
5. If you are limited in time, I would visit the Ark Encounter over the Creation Museum. I have been to both and prefer the Ark Encounter, especially with children. Although if you’re staying in the area, there are discounts to visit both.
6. Allow extra time for your children to play on the outdoor playground. It’s one of the best playgrounds we’ve experienced for a wide range of ages, plus it has handicap accessible swings. My children spent over an hour playing on this impressive outdoor playground. It has a large play structure, swings, tunnel slides, ziplines, a rainbow color maze, tunnels and seesaws to play upon, plus a toddler play area designed specifically for younger children.
7. The Ark Encounter has mobility aids, mobility chairs, and even handicap accessible swings for children.
8. Make sure to bring whatever you need with you including jackets, food, sunscreen since it’s not convenient to return to your vehicle. It requires a bit of walking and then you need to take the bus back to the parking area.
9. As of 2023 Kids 10 and under are free to visit the Ark Encounter so this year has quite the incentive to visit.
10. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture unique photo opportunities.
11. On the second level, there is a pop-up zoo that they will bring a variety of animals for visitors to see and pet.
12. If your child is afraid of thunderstorms, you may need to primitively explain that the interior of the ark plays simulated thunderstorm noises.
14. At night the ark is lite with spectacular rainbow lights, and is quite a sight to see.
FAQ’s and Concluding Thoughts
Pre-flood exhibit at the Ark Encounter
Is the ark handicap accessible?
Yes, there are elevators and ramps inside the ark on each floor. Renting scooters is also an option.
How much time do you need to experience the ark?
I would allot at least 3-5 hours for the full experience.
Should you visit the Ark Encounter if you’re not a Christian?
Whatever your religion, the Ark Encounter exposes people to different beliefs and insights into Christianity. In one exhibit specifically they revealed how many other religions and historical documents reference a great flood.
From a strictly entertainment purpose, the exhibits, playground, zoo and ark are well themed and constructed and were thoroughly enjoyed by our entire family. Just like Disney, Sea World, or the zoo this park is highly entertaining and a fun family experience.
Want to see a sneak peek video inside the Ark Encounter, check out this Instagram reel.
Nearby Attractions
Krohn’s Conservatory to see the butterflies
Cabela’s
Newport Aquarium
Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest
Mammoth Caves
Kentucky Down Under
Abe Lincoln’s Birth Place
Red River Gorge and Natural Bridge State Park
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