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Radisson Hotel Cincinnati Riverfront

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How much are Ark Encounter packages?

Vacation packages to Ark Encounter vary in price. They are priced per person and include discounted hotel and flight costs. With Hotwire, you can score a vacation package for as low as $350.

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Hotwire partners with some of the most reliable car rental companies in Williamstown to bring you the best car rental deals in Ark Encounter for as low as . Select a rental from Hotwire’s extensive inventory of cars for every travel style. If you plan on bringing friends or family along, opt for a spacious SUV. If you’re visiting on business but still plan to make time for off-the-clock adventures, Hotwire offers sleek luxury and convertible rentals.

Is it safe to travel to Ark Encounter now?

With recent COVID-19 closures and reopenings, many people are wondering, “Is it safe to travel to Ark Encounter right now?” When it’s time to book your vacation, check out the most up-to-date information on all safety measures, any restrictions, and  guidance on traveling during the coronavirus  pandemic.

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Visit Ark Encounter

There's a fee to visit this architectural marvel, which is situated in Williamstown . But there's more to see around these parts than just Ark Encounter. Dry Ridge Outlet Mall, Ararat Ridge Zoo and Williamstown Lake are also worth checking out.

Plan a trip to see Ark Encounter

Graduate Cincinnati

Reviewed on Apr 18, 2024

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Reviewed on Apr 16, 2024

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Reviews of Ark Encounter

5/5 - excellent.

We should have visited the Creation Museum the first night and the Ark Encounter the next day. Instead we did them both in one day, it was a lot of walking, and we missed out on the lights at the museum.

Words cannot describe the awesome experience at The Ark Encounter. Plenty to.see and their restaurant has great food at an affordable price. Will come back.

Wear comfy shoes and take lots of pics because it was a blast!!!

Great experience. Very handicap accesible.

This is a MUST see!

make sure you ware good walking shoes

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Book a ark encounter vacation package.

Stop dreaming and start traveling. If you’ve always wanted to see Ark Encounter, now is the perfect time. Book your getaway to Williamstown with Orbitz and get ready to tick this attraction off your bucket list. Plus when you lock in your package with us, you’ll have plenty of cash leftover to splash out on other amazing Williamstown sights. Because travel is all about investing in experiences, not things!

If you’re hoping to stay close to Ark Encounter, we’ve got you covered. Choose from a great range of hotels not far from this attraction. Roll out of bed, slip on your walking shoes and you’ll be there within moments. What could be more convenient than that? You won’t just be close to all the action — you’ll save money on transportation, and a hot shower and cozy bed will be within reach after a big day of exploring. Now that’s what we call a stress- free, full-of-fun getaway.

Orbitz has your ticket to a rewarding Ark Encounter vacation. Book your Williamstown package with us and you’ll be able to access Orbitz Rewards. Earn Orbucks when you reserve your flights, hotels and activities with Orbitz and redeem them at over 385,000 hotels worldwide. $1 Orbuck = $1 off your next hotel. Join, earn, redeem — just like that! When you join Orbitz Rewards, you’ll also instantly unlock exclusive deals and save on thousands of properties with Insider Pricing.

We believe the best reward that you can give to yourself or others is the gift of travel. So, don’t put off exploring Ark Encounter any longer. Save a bundle and book your Williamstown escape with Orbitz today.

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4 Days / 3 Nights

Departure from your location may require en route lodging. Call for details.

Ark Encounter & Creation Museum, KY & OH

A group bus tour, this package includes:.

• 3 Nights Lodging
• 3 Breakfasts
• 3 Dinners, including a Riverboat Dinner Cruise and a German Dinner with Entertainment at the Hofbrauhaus
• Admission to the Ark Encounter
• Admission to the Creation Museum
• Guided Tour of Cincinnati
• Gift for All
• Luggage Handling
• All Taxes and Meal Gratuities
• 2 Comps Per Bus of 40 or more

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Ark Encounter & Creation Museum, KY

March 15, 2024

March 16, 2024

STAY TUNED FOR 2025 DETAILS

Pickup Locations:

Morgantown, clarksburg wv.

Experience Bible history at the life-size Noah’s Ark! Meet Noah, his family, and the animals on the Ark. The Ark Encounter theme park also features a zoo, zip lines, and timber-frame restaurant. Bible history comes to life at the Creation Museum! This family-friendly attraction explores creation science with stunning exhibits, dinosaur bones, fossils, botanical gardens, a planetarium, zoo, zip line course, and more.

Taking advantage that these attractions are so close to Cincinnati we will be able to visit Findlay Market, Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public farmer’s market.

Departure and Return:

Morgantown WV- 75 Retail Circle, Morgantown WV 26508

• Pick up: March 15, 2024, at 5:00a.m.      
• Drop off: March 16, 2024, at 11:00p.m.  

‍ Clarksburg WV- 330 Emily Dr., Clarksburg WV 26301

• Pick up: March 15, 2024, at 6:00a.m.      
• Drop off: March 16, 2024, at 10:30p.m.  

Drop off times are approximate and can be affected by unforeseen conditions. 

What's Included

Tour includes:  2 days visiting attractions in ky and discovering cincinnati, oh. .

• Round trip transportation from Morgantown, or Clarksburg, WV on a deluxe motor coach with a bathroom and electrical outlets on every row. 
• 1 night/ 2 days lodging at Hotel in the Cincinnati area.  
• 1 hot breakfast.
• Transportation and admission ticket to the Arc Encounter and the Creation Museum.
• Transportation to the Findlay Market.  

Basic cost per person based on number of travelers per room: Single $395 / Double $355 / Triple $315 / Quad $285

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Travel Tips

Add travel insurance.

Almost Heaven Tours does not offer Travel Insurance but if you are interested in covering your Tour we have partnered with Trawick International, who offers Travel Insurance. Insurance is entirely separate from Almost Heaven Tours and costs additional.

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Reclaiming Wonders

Ark Encounter: Everything You Need to Plan a Trip {2023}

Let’s head on a family road trip to see the Ark! The  Ark Encounter in Kentucky is a Bible-based museum inside a full-sized reproduction ark. Associated with  Answers in Genesis , this experience is based around Noah building the Ark as per the specifics in the Book of Genesis. With three floors of museum, it’s a beautiful, state-of-the-art museum full of science and learning opportunities as the realities of living on the ark come to life. This is a trip you will continue thinking about for a long time afterward.

Affiliate disclosure: When you click and purchase a link in my post, I may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. I promise to only recommend products or places that I have personally want, used, or researched. Thanks in advance for the gallon of gas. 😉

How to Plan a Day at the Ark Encounter What Do You Do at the Ark? How Much Does It Cost to Visit the Ark? What Can You Eat at the Ark Encounter? Tips for Parents Visiting the Ark Where Should We Stay Near the Ark? Can I Visit the Ark if I Have Different Beliefs? How Much Walking is at the Ark? Education at the Ark

What is There To Do at the Ark Experience?

Visit the ark.

With three floors of the Ark to explore, there is a lot to take in here. On a crowded day, you may have to wait outside to enter – think a pathway separated by metal railings like at an amusement park.

The entrance to the Ark on the first floor is designed to show you how the Ark might have been set up with animal cages and food and water supplies. As each kind of animal is stored, you learn about modern day animals as well as some extinct including dinosaurs. There are cages on exhibit as well as showing how food and water would have been stored and distributed.

The second and third floors are devoted to the living on the ark, the Flood, Evolution, and lots of science. If you have already visited the Creation Museum , some of this will be repeat. There is also a small Bible museum on exhibit from the Museum of the Bible which adds in lots of history with actual centuries old manuscripts of the Bible to look at.

Hear a Lecture

These aren’t boring lectures! Think of them more as educational shows for the whole family – some with live animals! I love showing the kids in-person learning that doesn’t require the reading; bonus that we get to learn from someone who is passionate about the topic.

Check the online schedule or reference the paper version you get upon admission to learn about the different in-person lectures as offered in the very large auditorium. Some shows are only offered one time a day, so plan your visit around these as a highlight. If you have multiple days to choose from, look at this calendar ahead of time to see if one day appeals to you more than another.

As the founder of Answers in Genesis, Ken Ham’s in-person presentation was excellent and worth seeing. Despite being an hour and a half long, it is varied and keeps everyone entertained and interested in the subjects. Additionally, we loved the animal comparisons with live animals as we were talked through what animal “kinds” truly means. They were even allowed to get up close to the animals after the show.

There are also videos shown on the big screen explaining the building of ark and other subjects as varies per day. There is a snack bar and snacks are welcome in the building; this is a great time for an afternoon snack. The bookstore in the building has all kinds of material as published by Answers in Genesis and recommended.

Visit the Ararat Ridge Zoo

The Ararat Ridge zoo is outside zoo and a great way to get those little bodies moving freely again. Interact with kangaroos, pet the goats, and walk through the many different animal exhibits. While this is near the exit to the Ark, you could also hit it first thing upon arrival if the line for the Ark is long. For an additional fee, you can also ride the camels.

For extra wiggly kids, there is an impressive playground between the ark and the lecture hall which could entertain for hours.

The Ark Encounter Basics

🧭where is the ark:.

Northern Kentucky, approximately 45 minutes south of Cincinnati, Ohio

⏳How Much Time Do I Need at the Ark?

Plan for an all day experience. If you have smaller kids and know you won’t make it all the way through, I suggest you come after lunch for fewer crowds. Unlike the Creation Museum, there is a lot more freedom here for kids to touch and explore. However, prepare to not be able to see everything in the Ark before they want to leave and run.

If visiting in the winter after Thanksgiving, the hours are extended in the evening allowing more time to explore the videos and bookstore. The holiday lights are the focus as the garden is lit up and offers a live nativity, activities, and extra snacks.

🚙Parking at the Ark:

$10 parking in their large parking lot. There is a portion for oversized vehicles and RVs. You will line up at the ticket building in the parking lot for a short five minute drive in a bus to the Ark complex.

~~> Whoa there! If you’re already feeling stressed at the idea of a road trip with the family, make sure you check out “10 Tips to a Family Road Trip with Less Stress” .

How Much Does It Cost to Visit the Ark?

General admission ticket to the ark.

• 2023 ticket prices online are Adults $59.95, Youth (11-17) $29.95
• Kids 10 and under are currently free in 2023 but you still have to get them an online ticket
• Look for a combo ticket with the Ark Encounter to save a bit of money
• The tickets are not for a specific day and can be used up to a year after purchase.
• While you can purchase tickets online and show them digitally, the line for buying tickets was actually shorter. This might save time on a very busy day.

What’s Included in the Ark Encounter Ticket?

• Entrance to the Ark
• Guest speakers, presentations, and video viewing

What’s Not Included in the Ark Ticket?

There are plenty of extra opportunities to spend extra money; prepare yourself. Although Answers for Genesis is a non-profit, there will be plenty of places for you to spend more money. While the prices for food and extras aren’t as high as you would find at Disney World, extra events and opportunities will be advertised in the lectures and everywhere. The fast food seemed reasonably priced but the buffet is quite expensive; I’ve been told Emzara’s is worth the cost though!

Additional experiences: fossil find, zip lines, snacks, meals, fudge shop, coffee shop, ice cream… And then there’s the Ark store conveniently located right at the end of the ark, so you have to pass through it to exit. The virtual reality experience is a separate cost as well.

~~~~> Headed to the Creation Museum next? Make sure you check out my post on “Everything You Need to Know about the Creation Museum.”

What Can You Eat at the Ark Encounter?

There are many food opportunities around the ark. A full buffet is available in the Emzara Restaurant in a huge separate building to the side of the ark; although we didn’t eat there, I was told by multiple people that the food is really good. For smaller choices, there are hamburger and snack stands as well as a fudge counter in the Ark store.

Because of the bus ride and amount of time it would take to get back to your car, I do suggest that you eat at the Ark Encounter instead of planning to leave or go get your picnic. It is doable with your admission bracelets to get back to your car, but this trip would eat up quite a bit of your day – especially on a very busy day with long lines.

While the museum site states no outside food, our bags were not checked, and you could easily bring in a granola bar for a mid-afternoon snack to tide over a kid; I saw some doing this. We took in refillable water bottles in our bags without difficulty.

How to Plan a Day at the Ark Encounter

• Check the schedule online to have an overview of scheduled videos, speakers, and events – mark these and plan around these. Plan to be at the theater at least 15 minutes ahead of time; more if you want to go to an animal experience.
• Get to the parking lot at opening after a big sit down breakfast.
• Be flexible with your plan for the day depending on the crowd. There is plenty of other stuff to do if 1,000 people are headed straight to the ark first thing.
• Plan to have an ice cream snack or hot dog at lunch time; we pushed through lunch to go have a big meal in Cinicinnati.
• When the kids are done, accept that they’re done. There’s only so much reading and learning a brain can do.

Tips for Parents Visiting the Ark

• Be reasonable! You won’t be able to read everything. Your kids will give out. Go when they’re done. You’re just making everyone (including yourself) miserable. Been there; done that.
• Plan to go to the Creation Museum before the Ark if you can – but it isn’t essential. While much of the information is repeated in both, there is a lot of new information. I feel our Ark Encounter was faster because we had already familiarized ourselves with their theories and information.
• Prioritize. Make the lectures a priority of your time. While the videos may be offered several times a day, the lectures are not. Don’t miss these.
• Meeting place. Apart from inside the ark itself, there is so much space here that it feels very spread out. With that in mind, I would suggest a meeting place on the grounds incase you get split up.
• Match! With kids potentially running off in the Ark to dart to the other side of an area, you could easily misplace a kid inside. This might be a good day for matching T-shirts.

Can I Visit the Ark if I Have Different Beliefs?

• This is a fully Christian-based experience completely based on a six-day creation plan. Please don’t use that as a discouragement to go. Even if your creation beliefs don’t align perfectly with this museum, there still is so much for you to take in – just attend with an open mind. Not to mention, seeing what others believe will only stand to strengthen your own beliefs as your see other viewpoints. If nothing else, walking through and seeing the scope of the Ark is person is so impressive.
• The creators of this museum, Answers in Genesis, is a Christian company with the goal to preach Christ. Part of the exhibits and presentation are “preachy” and may not line up with your religious beliefs.
• This Ark experience uses a fictionalized account of Noah and his family to tell the story and hypothesize about their life including naming the family members. While addressed briefly at the beginning, I strongly encourage you to have a debriefing with your kids after the trip to discuss which facts are Biblical and which are “creative license”. I hate to think the kids go to church and talk about Emzara, Noah’s wife, or how Noah lived with his inlaws for his ship-building training.

How Much Walking is at the Ark?

• The Ark has a lot of walking. Depending on the day’s crowd, it may be a hike to the ticket station in the parking lot or a long wait to get on the bus. The Ark Encounter itself is a huge area and very spread out.
• There is a lot of walking. The parking lot is huge, the ark is huge, and the park is huge. Don’t plan to run quickly over to the lecture and then go back on the Ark. Plan to stay on the Ark when there.
• There are ramps leading up to each of the different floors of the Ark so strollers or wheelchairs shouldn’t be an issue. The incline is very slight – benefit of giant boat.
• If you can’t walk far or have difficulty standing for periods reading or waiting in line, you might need to plan ahead. Wheelchairs, both manual and electric, are available for rental at the Ark on a first-come first-served schedule.
• If you are a parent juggling multiple littles, I wouldn’t hesitate to bring a single or double stroller. There is plenty of space to use it, and you’ll wish you had it for resting and managing the crowds.

Education at the Ark

• Top tip: Just coming to the Ark, the kids will learn a ton. Be okay with not adding anything extra!
• Look at the entrance for detailed, full-colored workbook for kids to complete during their visit based on their age. These are only $2; it is also available online to print ahead of time if you want. Honestly, we were so overwhelmed by the information that reading extra and filling out worksheets was undoable. I do plan on working through them at home using the book of signs that we got at the bookstore. This is also available to download through the website if you want to prepare ahead of time.
• This is an excellent educational experience for Bible, science, and history. Terms like evolution, natural selection, and Darwinian are everywhere and will challenge or strengthen your beliefs. Biblical and ancient history are juxtaposed allowing for a review of both with archeological findings. Prepare to have plenty to discuss at home!
• The bookstore. You’ve been warned. The bookstore here and at the Creation Museum have many of the same books, so feel free to go home and think about your purchases. They are also available through the webiste if you change your mind later.
• Grab the Ark book detailing all the placards you didn’t have time to read at the Ark. These could be used to guide further discussions at home.

~~~~> Are you a homeschool family? Check out more of my homeschool posts . It might just be the encouragement you need for this journey!

Where Should We Stay Near the Ark?

The Ark Encounter is located halfway between Lexington, Kentucky and Cincinnati, Ohio. Surrounded by mostly small towns and forty minutes south of Cincinnati, visiting the Ark Encounter means you will most likely have to drive half an hour to visit. During our Kentucky road trip to see the Ark, we chose to stay in about thirty minutes south in Georgetown, Kentucky – just north of Lexington – as we were driving up from that direction.

Home2 Suites by Hilton is my go-to hotel because there will be a bed for all six, a kitchenette (even compete with a dishwasher and full-sized fridge), and a great breakfast in the morning. We have stayed in probably about ten different Home2 Suites over the last several years, we know what to expect, and they have everything we need to eat at the hotel (and do laundry!).

~~~~> Check out Home2 Suites in Georgetown, Kentucky , and let’s start planning your next road trip.

What is Near the Ark Encounter?

Make sure you check out my post “Creation Museum: Everything You Need to Know” . If you are very pressed for time, you could see both the Creation Museum and the Ark in one day with a thirty minute drive between the two sights. However, you would miss out on a lot of both experiences.

If you have time for a day of exploring, drive an hour east of the museum to the Daniel Boone National Forest. The Red River Gorge Scenic Byway is a circle with multiple stops to hike to natural arches. It’s a full day trip to break up the museum leaning.

Staying in nearby Cincinnati would provide the opportunity to explore this city and visit the Cincinatti Zoo ‘ s most famous resident, Fiona the Hippo. I wish we had time to see the museum or the National Underground Railroard Museum . I’m saving that for our next trip.

Thanks for stopping by my little corner! Here’s to your next adventure.

I’m Bobbie. As transplants from Texas, my family of six is on a mission to discover all of Georgia’s amazing places , experience amazing road trips across the United States , and create a homeschool life along the way.

Want to adventure like me? Reach out! I’d love to chat . Stop by my Instagram or Pinterest page to discover more of our adventures.

Want to work with me ? I’d love to work with your destination and tourism board to help other family travelers see all you have to offer.

Share this post with a friend!

Published by Bobbie || ReclaimingWonders

Travel mom. Homeschool mom. Creating Mom. I'm here to help you create a life of learning for your family. View all posts by Bobbie || ReclaimingWonders

4 thoughts on “ Ark Encounter: Everything You Need to Plan a Trip {2023} ”

Hey! I don’t know the answer but maybe this will help. Hope you have a great trip. https://arkencounter.com/rules/service-animals/

We have a service dog, she rides in a stroller, will she be allowed?

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Tour the Life-Size Noah’s Ark at the Ark Encounter

Sponsored Content

Get ready to encounter the wonder! The Ark Encounter features a jaw-dropping, 510-foot-long reconstruction of Noah’s ark, built according to the biblical dimensions. Inside, guests tour three decks of world-class exhibits, including sculpted animal pairs, animatronic people, Noah’s family living quarters, and more. This life-size Ark is the largest timber-frame structure in the world and an architectural marvel. And in 2023, children age 10 and under receive free admission!

Outside the Ark, guests explore the gorgeous grounds and meet exotic animals such as sloths, a binturong (bearcat), lemurs, camels, and more at Ararat Ridge Zoo. Or they can “meet” the animal kinds journeying to the Ark with free rides for all ages on a custom indoor carousel.

The indoor carousel at the Ark Encounter

Throughout the day live presentations and concerts take place in the state-of-the-art, 2,500-seat Answers Center auditorium. Guests enjoy tapping their toes to resident artists TrueSong, learning from dynamic Answers in Genesis speakers, meeting ambassador animals during engaging zoo presentations, and so much more.

Delicious food and drinks can be found throughout the grounds, particularly at Emzara’s Kitchen, a 1,500-seat restaurant featuring a cafeteria-style buffet loaded with guest favorites such as fried chicken, roast beef, fresh salads, creamy mac and cheese, garlic potatoes, and mouth-watering desserts. Guests can also enjoy smoky meats, wraps, paninis, freshly made fudge, cookies, specialty coffees, and more.

For an additional ticket purchase, guests can ride or feed a camel or mine for fossils or gems in the Fossil Sluice. Guests can also travel back in time and experience the building of the ark, loading of the animals, and the rainbow after the flood at Truth Traveler, the Virtual Reality Experience. Special seats full of surprises and state-of-the-art VR headsets wow guests as they enter a spaceship for their epic journey.

The most adventurous can zip over the trees in the stunning valley beside the Ark with Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures as they soar down thousands of feet of zip lines and reach up to 50 mph and 15 stories in the air. Ten of these mega zip lines are 1,000 feet or longer! Make a leap of faith off the 80-foot free fall tower or climb the aerial adventure course. Tours may be booked in advance or upon arrival.

Zip line at Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures

Kids love the unique playground, designed with children of all abilities in mind. Towering slides, climbing surfaces, swings, a rainbow maze, a zip line, and more delight children of all ages.

The outdoor playground at the Ark Encounter

August 1­–September 9, 2023, the Ark Encounter will host 40 Days and 40 Nights of Gospel Music, the world’s largest Christian music festival. Award-winning gospel music artists will perform over 120 concerts, and all concerts are included free with general Ark admission.

The Ark Encounter is visited by thousands of guests every day and they leave raving reviews. It’s truly an experience like no other!

The Ark Encounter is fully wheelchair accessible (with wheelchair and scooter rentals available) and family-friendly. The Ark Encounter is located in Williamstown, KY, directly off I-75 exit 154. Learn more and get your tickets today at ArkEncounter.com .

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Bounce Between the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter with New Pass Options

We’re excited to announce a whole new way to experience everything the Creation Museum and the Ark Encounter offer—and this new option is available just in time for your spring or summer vacation plans! These attractions offer world-class exhibits, beautiful grounds, hands-on family programs, presentations, concerts, animal encounters, zoo animals, playgrounds, and so much more.*

With all there is to experience at the museum and the life-size Noah’s Ark, families have trouble fitting everything into just two days (one day at each attraction). So we are now offering a new pass to join our other ticketing options .

Bouncer Pass

This new pass is our Bouncer Pass which lets guests “bounce” between the attractions with unlimited access to both the Creation Museum and the Ark Encounter for three days within a seven-day period . You can add special parking options ($30 for standard parking, $40 for oversized vehicles total for all three days) when you choose this pass. It’s a great way for families to come to Northern Kentucky to visit our world-class museum, the life-size Noah’s Ark, and other local attractions. The Bouncer Pass gives you flexibility in planning your visit and ensures you won’t miss anything while you’re here!

Visit All Year Long

The Ultimate Bouncer Pass, which will replace our current annual pass, is even better—it gives an individual, couple, or family one year’s worth of bouncing between our two attractions ! Come enjoy the gardens in every season, take in daily presentations, concerts, and hands-on programs, be the first to experience new exhibits and additions, bring the kids to the playgrounds, get to know the zoo animals and more throughout the entire year. Free parking for the year is also included with the Ultimate Bouncer Pass.

Will You Need a Place to Stay?

If you need a place to stay when you visit, you can book your hotel while your purchase your Bouncer Pass on CreationMuseum.org ! Choose from a variety of vetted hotels conveniently located near the Creation Museum and the Ark Encounter, and receive a special rate when you book through our site.

We’re excited for this new ticketing option that will help families experience even more of what the world’s leading Christian-themed attractions have to offer. Plan your visit today at CreationMuseum.org or ArkEncounter.com .

*Some experiences are an additional charge.

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Winter Hours

Sunday: Noon – 6 PM Monday - Saturday: 9 AM - 6 PM

All hours are Eastern Time. Last admission 1 hour before closing.

Sister Attraction

Creation Museum Location

place 2800 Bullittsburg Church Rd.   Petersburg, KY 41080 ( see directions ) Seven miles west of the Cincinnati Airport

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A Trip Planning Guide to the Ark Encounter

The ark encounter: a trip planning guide for church & senior groups.

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure that combines history, science, and wonder? Look no further than the Ark Encounter, a one-of-a-kind attraction that invites visitors to step back in time and explore the biblical story of Noah’s Ark. This comprehensive trip planning guide will take you on a journey through the incredible wonders of the Ark Encounter, offering valuable tips and insights to ensure your visit is nothing short of extraordinary. Discover the awe-inspiring size of the Ark, which stands at a staggering 510 feet long and provides a fascinating glimpse into the ancient world.

What is the Ark Encounter?

The Ark Encounter is not only a religious attraction but also a scientific one. It presents evidence and research that supports the historical accuracy of the biblical account of Noah’s Ark. Through the use of modern technology and archaeological findings, the Ark Encounter aims to bridge the gap between faith and science, providing visitors with a thought-provoking and enlightening experience.

History and Significance of the Ark Encounter

Location and how to get there.

The Ark Encounter is located in Williamstown, Kentucky, just off Interstate 75. It is easily accessible by car from major cities such as Cincinnati, Ohio, and Lexington, Kentucky. If you’re flying in, the closest airports are Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) and Blue Grass Airport (LEX) in Lexington.

Tickets and Pricing

It’s worth noting that the Ark Encounter occasionally offers discounts and promotions, especially during off-peak seasons. It’s recommended to check the website or subscribe to their newsletter to stay updated on any special offers.

Planning Your Visit: Best Time to Go & Visit the Ark Encounter

Exploring the ark encounter: must-see attractions & exhibits.

On the first deck, you’ll find a variety of exhibits that showcase the construction techniques used in building the Ark. From the massive wooden beams to the carefully crafted animal enclosures, every detail has been meticulously recreated to provide an authentic experience. One of the highlights on the first deck is the stunning replica of Noah’s study, where you can learn more about his life and the challenges he faced.

Dining and Shopping at the Ark Encounter

Tips for an enjoyable and memorable visit.

8) Respect the rules and guidelines: The Ark Encounter has certain rules in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. Be sure to follow these guidelines and be respectful to other guests.

Other Nearby Attractions and Activities

• Wendinger Band

Boat Load of Fun!

July 17 - 22, 2024 * $1,645 per person

Featuring: ark encounter, creation museum, & mississippi river, cincinnati and chicago river cruise.

Your Trip Includes:

• Six days round trip deluxe motor coach transportation
• Five nights accommodations, based on double occupancy
• Luggage handling
• Breakfast each morning
• Lunch in Waterloo
• Dinner at the Machine Shed in Rockford
• Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum
• Mississippi River Cruise from Dubuque to Moline aboard the
• Celebration Belle including breakfast, lunch & dinner
• Ark Encounter with included lunch
• Creation Museum
• Admiral Dinner Cruise on the Ohio River
• Chicago’s Architectural River Cruise
• Fully Escorted

TRAVEL PROTECTION: You will be given the option of purchasing Travel Protection at the time you sign-up for the tour. Plans help protect you and your travel investment and help provide coverage for unexpected circumstances. The plan cost is non-refundable after the 14 day free look period and rates are based on trip cost. Group plans require a minimum participation of 10 travelers. 

For a complete description of coverage and to see all the covered  reasons for cancellation, please call 507-359-3111 or e-mail info @wendingertravel.com . 

Ark Encounter Brochure

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Site created and maintained by Sheila Howk; Copyright © 2018 

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Zipline and Adventure Park at the Ark Encounter

Exciting thrills & aerial fun.

Located at the Ark Encounter in Williamstown, Kentucky, featuring thrilling zip lines, aerial challenge course, and free fall! All of our tours are guided by trained staff and all courses are outfitted with a closed belay system making this a safer tour for your family.

• Ziplines up to 2,000 ft.
• Bird’s eye views of the Ark
• Fun for the whole family

Featured Adventure

Zip line canopy tours.

• 3 Levels of Intensity
• Soar past the amazing Ark and get a bird’s eye view of the park at 40-150 feet off the ground and on zip lines up to 1,600 feet long! With 3 levels of our Kentucky zip line tours, we have thrills for beginners and adrenaline junkies alike.
• Minimum Weight: 75lbs. Maximum Weight: 250 lbs. for females, 285 lbs. for males. See tour listing for full requirements.

Our Adventures

See What Our Guests Are Saying

Super fun time with amazing views of the fall colors and the Ark! Our group ranged from 14 years to 72 years old!!

This was the best place ever!!! I did level two today with two really nice instructors.

This was my first time on a zip line and this company does it right. From orientation to the end line the quides are with you. What I really loved was the safety that was enforced and the comraderie you developed with the people in the group and guides. We had an amazing time. It couldnt have been better!! Thank you!!

An adventure come true! So awesome! We had such an absolute blast! And having the Ark in the background can't be beat!!!

I didnt ride the ziplines but my 6 year old grandson, Samuel, did the lower level obstacle course and he loved it. A special salute to the young lady named Sam that helped him thru the course. She treated him like he was the only one on the course and she made a friend for life whether she meant to or not.

Super fun! The guides do a great job leading and encouraging you!

For this 80 year old lady from Wyoming riding your zip line was the most exhilarating and exciting experience I have had in many years. That first step off of the tower into thin air was terrifying but then the fun began. Lynzy and Derrick the young woman and man that escorted me down the cables to a safe landing were very well trained, courteous and wonderful. You could not ask for better people to put your trust in. Thanks again Lynzy and Derrick.

The staff was great and this experience really added to our family trip. We split the day at the ark in half with the zip line and made for a great experience.

My daughter, Presley and I completed the course today and can’t wait to do it again. She is 6 and the obstacles were the perfect challenge for her while also a great challenge for me as well. We enjoyed every minute and found our guides and all the other staff very friendly and helpful. We look forward to doing more of your courses at other locations! Thanks for a great day on our mother-daughter adventure date!

Full Five Stars! We had a great time! Our daughter, Emily, did not expect to be spending her 14th Birthday soaring above the treetops! Even my 66 year old husband, Gene, who is really afraid of heights, had a great time zipping along. The guides instilled confidence in themselves and the equipment, making it a thrilling experience for everyone.

This was so much fun!! Beautiful scenery of the Ark and surrounding area! This was my first time zip lining, and I felt really safe. The guides were really good at explaining what to do, and they made it really fun. Definitely doing it again!!!

Location & Hours

Address  1 Ark Encounter Drive Williamstown, KY 41097

Monday – Saturday: 9 am – 5 pm

Sunday: Closed

View available tour times when booking.

About the Ark Encounter

We are proud to be flying above the Ark Encounter in Williamstown, Kentucky!  Where you can experience the life-size Noah’s Ark, zoo, Kentucky zip line courses , and more! You can add an aerial adventure to your park visit, or you can come just for a tour with us.

Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures is in association with The Lodges at Banning Mills Retreat and Conservation Center Inc., a registered 501(c)(3). EIN 30-0279902., We are partnered with the Ark Encounter.

Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures has 11 locations across the southeastern United States! Did you know we also have zipline tours and aerial adventures at The Creation Museum ?

Ready to feel the rush of excitement?

Mon – Sat: 9 am – 5 pm

Sun: Closed

*See available tour times when booking.

Quick Links

• Historic Banning Mills
• Amicalola Falls State Park
• Chattahoochee Nature Center
• Unicoi State Park
• DeSoto Falls State Park
• Lake Guntersville State Park
• Wind Creek State Park
• The Creation Museum

© 2023 Screaming Eagle | All Rights Reserved. In association with The Lodges at Banning Mills Retreat and Conservation Center Inc., a registered 501(c)(3). EIN 30-0279902.