tour of noah's ark

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4 Days / 3 Nights

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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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Rt. Motorcoach Transportation

Sit Back in Comfort and enjoy the ride on our safe, Luxury Motorcoaches which offer reclining seats, Restrooms, and Windows offering panoramic views.  Our Drivers are the safest drivers in the Industry and adhere to our tough standards of excellence.  Enjoy peace of mind knowing that we will get you there safely.  

3 Nights Deluxe Accommodations

Enjoy clean, comfortable accommodations right in the heart of all the action!   We offer Spacious rooms, Friendly staff, and outstanding Customer service.  We can’t wait to welcome you to the Ark Encounter & Creation Museum 

3 Great Breakfasts

Enjoy a continental breakfast which typically includes items such as bagels, toast, and condiments, pastries, fruit, juice, cereals, beverages, warm and cold selections, and possibly eggs and meat.  Of course, each hotel offers different selections.

2 Great Dinners

Enjoy Great dinners at the most popular restaurants in the Area.  You will enjoy some great Choices at each restaurant and have a chance to enjoy the Local Flair.  Your group will enjoy dinner one night right inside the ARK!

Full Days Admission to the Ark Encounter

Ark Encounter features a full-size Noah’s Ark, built according to the dimensions given in the Bible. Spanning 510 feet long, 85 feet wide, and 51 feet high, this modern engineering marvel amazes visitors young and old. Ark Encounter is situated in beautiful Grant County in Williamstown, Kentucky, halfway between Cincinnati and Lexington .   Ark Encounter is three exhibits in one—the massive Ark structure itself, the incredible craftsmanship, and the beautifully fabricated teaching exhibits. The combination of all three will amaze and inspire you to think differently about the biblical account of Noah’s Ark.

Full Days Admission to the Creation Museum

The history of the Bible vividly comes to life at the world-class Creation Museum. On your walk through biblical history, you’ll encounter a realistic Garden of Eden, animatronic Noah, Flood dioramas, stunning video displays, and much more. Prepare to believe!

Explore the idyllic Garden of Eden alongside Adam and Eve. You’ll see Adam naming the animals, the creation of Eve, the tree of life, and the serpent cunningly coiled in the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.

During the year of the Flood, the ocean waters picked up plants and animals on the land and buried them in sequences of mud and sand layers where they became fossils. The Flood left behind layer upon layer of rocks and fossils in the present, spread right across continents. 

Admission to the Air Force Museum

Welcome to the official website of the National Museum of the United States Air Force -- the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world -- located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, near Dayton, Ohio. This site is provided as a public service by the National Museum of the United States Air Force, Public Affairs Division.

The National Museum of the United States Air Force collects, researches, conserves, interprets and presents the Air Force's history, heritage and traditions, as well as today's mission to fly, fight and win ... in Air, Space and Cyberspace to a global audience through engaging exhibits, educational outreach, special programs, and the stewardship of the national historic collection. 

All Taxes and Meal Gratuities

Rest assured that Meal Gratuities and all taxes are included in every Senior Excursions Tour.  We have done all the work to make sure that you are not hassled with extra charges while you are on vacation.

2 Complimentary Trips

On Every Senior Excursions tour, the Group leader is rewarded to 2 free trips for every 40 Paying passengers. This is our way of showing how much we appreciate the hard work that group leaders do.  

Ask Your Tour Consultant About Optional Add-Ons

Ask your tour consultant about optional add-ons to enhance your trip with unique experiences like guided tours, special activities, or accommodation upgrades. These extras can help personalize your journey, offering memorable moments tailored to your interests, all while keeping you informed about additional costs and options.

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Ark Encounter & Creation Museum

Bring the Bible to life!

Ark Encounter features a full-size Noah’s Ark, built according to the dimensions given in the Bible. Spanning 510 feet long, 85 feet wide, and 51 feet high, this modern engineering marvel amazes visitors young and old. Ark Encounter is situated in beautiful Grant County in Williamstown, Kentucky, halfway between Cincinnati and Lexington Bible history comes to life at the Creation Museum! This family-friendly attraction near Cincinnati explores creation science with stunning exhibits, dinosaur bones, fossils, botanical gardens, a planetarium, zoo, zip line course, and more.

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Ark Encounter & Creation Museum

Williamstown, KY, USA

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About this trip

Experience the Bible like never before on this bus tour that brings you face to face with Genesis and the life-size recreation of Noah’s Ark and the Creation Museum.  Cruise through charming lifestyle of Amish Country in Ohio on this enriching trip of a lifetime.

Why You'll Enjoy This Trip

♦  ark encounter tour - a full-size noah’s ark, built according to the dimensions given in the bible., ♦  go back to simpler times in ohio amish country and experience amish hospitality with dinner at a local amish farm., ♦  walk through biblical history and encounter a realistic garden of eden, animatronic noah, flood dioramas, and stunning video displays throughout your journey, what’s included.

• Roundtrip Motor-coach
• 4-Nights Accommodation Berlin Grand Hotel | Marriott Cincinnati Airport.
• 10 Meals 4 Breakfasts | 2 Lunches | 4 Dinners.
• Creation Museum
• Ark Encounter
• Full-Time Tour Director Professional Tours of Distinction Tour Director.
• All Gratuities Tour Director, Driver & Local Guides.
• Amish Ohio Locally Guided Tour of Ohio's Amish Country.
• Hotel Baggage Handling

What’s not included

• Personal Items Items of a Personal Nature You Wish to Purchase.
• Travel Insurance Optional.
• Alcoholic Beverages
• Roundtrip Airfare

Available Packages

Arrive in Cincinnati* today and from there we continue to the Ohio Amish Country and spend two nights at the Berlin Grande Hotel. Tonight, we have a tour of the David Warther Museum, where the artist himself will take us on a tour of his masterpieces. A fifth-generation carver of Swiss heritage, who creates his works from antique ivory, ebony wood, and abalone pearl. After the tour, we have the pleasure of joining David and his wife for dinner in the Museum. (D)

*Please arrive no later than 1pm

After breakfast, we head out on a full day of sightseeing in Amish Country. Our guide knows all of the scenic byways and the human-interest stories, legends and lore tied to Ohio’s Amish country. This will be a relaxing day of sightseeing and shopping and tonight we sit down to dinner with an Amish Family. (B, D)

Enjoy breakfast before we head to Petersburg, KY to visit the Creation Museum. A state-of-the-art Museum that allows you to venture through biblical history, see stunning exhibits, and so much more! A lunch voucher is included for your convenience. Our overnight this evening will be at the Marriott Cincinnati Airport . Dinner is included. (B, L, D)

From breakfast we board the bus for Williamstown, Kentucky to tour The Ark Encounter. What a sight as we approach Noah's Ark! It’s over 50 feet tall (about the height of a 4-story building). It’s 510 feet long (nearly 2 football fields) and 80 feet wide. This is a full-size Noah’s Ark, built according to the dimensions given in the Bible. It’s a modern engineering marvel that amazes all who see it, and makes you wonder how Noah ever did it. From the moment you turn the corner, the towering Ark comes into view, to the live animals and the jaw-dropping exhibits inside the Ark, you will experience Biblical times like never before. Dinner is included this evening. (B, L, D) 

After breakfast, we transfer to the Cincinnati Airport for your flight onwards. (B)

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Everything You Need To Know About Visiting The Ark Encounter, Kentucky

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Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

Visiting the Ark Encounter is an unforgettable experience. Nestled in northern Kentucky, this biblical theme park is one of the most unique places to visit in America, regardless of your religious beliefs or background. The Ark offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of Noah and the Great Flood. The site features a full-size replica of Noah’s Ark, interactive exhibits, restaurants, and other attractions.

I visited the Ark Encounter with a group of six other people. We had all heard about the Ark and wanted to see and experience it for ourselves. One of the group members had been to the ark several times and acted as our guide. We found the experience fascinating and it far exceeded our expectations.

In this article, we cover everything you need to know about visiting the Ark Encounter, so read on if you’re looking for tips and advice on planning your perfect trip!

What Is The Ark Encounter, Kentucky?

The Ark Encounter is a one-of-a-kind theme park attraction that showcases a life-size Noah’s Ark replica, the vessel that saved his family and all the animals during the Great Flood, according to the biblical story. The ark is an impressive sight to see. Built according to the specifications described in the Bible, it spans 510 feet in length, is 85 feet wide, and towers 51 feet high. The ark is the largest wooden timber frame structure in the World and an engineering masterpiece. 

The Ark is a popular tourist attraction and a magnificent display of craftsmanship, as it was designed to be as historically accurate as possible. The inside of the Ark features multiple exhibits illustrating the story of the Great Flood and its aftermath. Visiting the Ark Encounter is a unique experience and a great way to learn about one of the most iconic stories in the Bible.

Whether you’re religious or simply curious about history, the Ark offers an unforgettable experience. Visitors can explore the impressive structure and learn how Noah and his family saved animals from the flood. There are also various theaters where you can watch movies about the ark and the Bible. It’s a fascinating piece of history and engineering that will leave you in awe of what humans can achieve.

But there is more! Besides the ark, there are several other attractions, such as the Ararat Ridge Zoo located behind the ark, a zip line, and a virtual reality experience, “The Truth Traveler’s A Flood of Reality.” I enjoyed the petting zoo and the virtual reality experience was great fun. It was like being in the ark during the flood.

If you’re into biblical sites, be sure to check out the lost city of Petra .

Where Is The Ark Encounter?

This modern engineering marvel is located in Williamstown, Kentucky , about 40 miles south of Cincinnati, Ohio, and north of Lexington, right off Interstate 75. The site is easy to reach by car and ample parking is available. 

The site is open year-round, but the hours vary depending on the season, so check their website before you go. Generally, the Ark Encounter opens at 9 a.m. and closes between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., depending on the season.

How Long Does It Take To Tour The Ark Encounter?

A common question that many visitors ask is, “How long does it take to tour the ark?” The answer to that question is, “It depends!” You’ll want to make sure you clear your schedule for a good chunk of the day! While the exact amount of time you’ll need will depend on your pace and level of interest in biblical history, most visitors spend around 4–6 hours exploring the various exhibits, shows, and activities.

The Ark is a massive structure that’s over 500 feet long with multiple levels to explore. Many people spend the entire day there. We were there from the time it opened until evening, and we still missed a few things.

There are three decks to view. Deck 1 provides an overview of the biblical ark’s size and teaches where and how items were most likely stored on the ark and how the animals were cared for.

Deck 2 highlights the pre-flood world and focuses on Noah and how God may have prepared him for building the ark. 

Deck 3 shows plausible living quarters for Noah and his family, although I doubt they were as lovely as depicted in the Ark Encounter. It also reviews flood geology, what happened after the flood, and a Museum of the Bible exhibit.

There’s just so much to see, from the exhibits and petting zoo to the zip lines and dining options. They even give camel rides. One thing’s for sure — you won’t be bored at the Ark Encounter!

The Exhibits Inside The Ark Encounter

After you are welcomed by a thunderstorm, you enter the spectacular inside of the Ark which consists of three decks, each one stacked with exhibits. On the first deck, you can see exhibits of animal cages and how the animals were cared for. 

The next two decks feature numerous exhibits of life on the Ark and also life after the Flood Decks 2 and 3 have short video presentations that you can stop and watch in the provided seating area. 

Each exhibit has such detail and an enormous amount of information to read, that you could spend hours taking it all in. 

Admission To The Ark Encounter

To enter the Ark Encounter, you need a ticket, which you can purchase online or at the ticket counter on arrival. We bought our tickets in advance to avoid the line waiting to purchase. 

The ticket includes access to the Ark Encounter exhibits, restaurants, and other attractions. 

The prices vary depending on age, with discounts available for children, seniors, and groups. Kids under 10 are free for 2023. Some attractions like “The Truth Traveler’s A Flood of Reality” have an additional fee. 

Dining At The Ark Encounter

The site has several restaurants and food options, ranging from fast food to sit-down dining. You can find typical American fares, such as burgers, fries, and pizza, as well as healthier options, like salads and vegetarian dishes.

When I visited, we ate at Emzara’s Kitchen , a two-story family buffet-style restaurant. The prices were reasonable, and the food quality was excellent. There is also a snack stand near the Ark, where you can grab a quick bite. 

Be aware that the restaurants at the Ark Encounter tend to get crowded during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

The Ark Encounter’s Ararat Ridge Zoo

If you grew up near a large zoo in a big city, then Ararat Ridge Zoo will come across as really tiny. Nonetheless, it is another fun option at the Ark Encounter and your family will like it.  You can walk through the area to see kangaroos and several other animals.

There’s a petting zoo, camel rides, and additional attractions. Your kids will also love the large playground area. The Ark Encounter also took the extra steps to include a fossil find and camel rides and feedings.

Let’s move on to our Ark Encounter tips for to help you make the most of your visit!

Tips For Visiting The Ark Encounter in Williamstown, Kentucky

If you’re planning a trip to the Ark Encounter, you’re in for a treat! Our Ark Encounter tips will help you prepare and best use your time. 

Plan A Visit During Off-Peak Times

Try to visit the Ark Encounter during off-peak times. Mid-week and off-season will help you avoid large crowds and make your experience more enjoyable.

Visit The Ark Encounter Website 

Before your trip, verify the days and hours of operation before your trip. Check for special pricing options and special events that might make the ark extra crowded on the day you plan to attend. 

Plan For A 4- To 6-Hour Visit

Plan to spend at least a half-day at the Ark Encounter. There is much to see and do with various galleries and exhibits, plus an outdoor area. You don’t want to rush through and miss things. We visited for an entire day. 

Purchase Tickets In Advance

Purchase tickets online to save time and money. 

Wear Comfortable Shoes And Clothes

Wearing comfortable shoes is a priority. You will be doing a lot of walking both inside the ark and outside. The Ark Encounter is wheelchair accessible. There are wheelchairs, scooters, and strollers available for rent. There is a lot of movement, so comfortable clothes are essential. 

Beat The Crowd

The Ark Encounter opens at 9 a.m., so arrive early to explore all the exhibits before they become crowded. We arrived around 9 a.m., and there was already a line, but we had purchased tickets in advance, so we didn’t have to wait. 

Download A Map

Download the Ark Encounter map ( PDF ) or pick one up when entering the ark. It provides helpful information and provides instructions for downloading their app. 

Bring A Camera 

The Ark Encounter has several great photo opportunities.

Bring Sunscreen, Sunglasses, And A Hat

If you plan to be outdoors in the zoo or ziplining, be sure to bring sunscreen and remember to apply it, and wear your hat and sunglasses when heading outdoors.

Consider A Combo Ticket 

Consider buying a combo ticket that includes access to the nearby sister attraction, the Creation Museum .

Pro Tip: I highly suggest the combo ticket for both the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter. Go to the Creation Museum (and the Creation Museum gift shop) on the first day and then the Ark Encounter on the second. The Creation Museum lays the groundwork for the Ark information. 

Most importantly, remember to have fun! You’re visiting a great place to learn about Noah’s adventure, ride the zipline, pet the animals, and spend time with family and friends. 

Visiting the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum is an educational, engaging, and awe-inspiring experience. The site has something for everyone with its stunning full-size Noah’s Ark, fascinating exhibits, and diverse attractions including the museum gift shop.

Whether you are a believer, a skeptic, or somewhere in between, the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum offer a unique and thought-provoking perspective on one of the most intriguing stories in the Bible. So, pack your bags, gather your family or friends, and head to Kentucky for a memorable adventure at the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum.

Who Owns The Ark Encounter and Creation Museum?

Ark Encounter is operated by Answers in Genesis, a YEC organization that also operates the Creation Museum 45 miles away in Petersburg, Kentucky. The park was founded by Australian Ken Ham, founder and CEO of AiG.

How Big Is the Ark Encounter?

At 800 acres, the Ark Encounter is bigger than Disneyland. Ark Encounter features a life-size replica of Noah’s Ark, constructed according to the dimensions specified in the Bible. The recreation of Noah’s Ark is one of the biggest tourism draws in Northern Kentucky.

Was The Ark Encounter Expensive to Build?

It was expensive, yes. For all phases, the entire Ark Encounter cost over $100 million, including $62 million from the Williamstown bond offering and $36 million from individual donations from AiG through its supporters. The average donation was $230 from 42,000 small donors and it took a little more than one year to build. 

Is the Ark Encounter Close to the Creation Museum?

Yes. The two locations are just under an hour away from each other. While the Ark Encounter complements the Creation Museum, it is a special destination and both attractions could hold the interest of guests for the better part of two days.

Is the Ark Encounter Open the Year Round?

Yes. The Ark site and the Creation Museum are open year-round, with slightly reduced hours during the winter months. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. The attraction can be quite busy, particularly on holidays and weekends. Children 10 and under get free admission.

Robin O’Neal Smith is a freelance and travel writer. A young baby boomer, Robin and her husband have traveled throughout North America, many of the Caribbean Islands, and Europe. She loves cruising and inspiring others to live their dreams of travel. Follow her travels on her personal site where she discusses travel, food, and more!

Ark Encounter & Creation Museum Trip

Experience the bible like never before on this ark encounter vacation package that brings you face to face with genesis, the life-size recreation of noah’s ark and the creation museum..

Why you’ll enjoy this trip:

Day 1 - arrive cincinnati, oh, day 2 - ohio amish country, day 3 - ohio amish country - creation museum, day 4 - ark encounter, day 5 - depart cincinnati, tour details, marriott cincinnati airport, transportation, trip highlights, upcoming departures, if you like this tour, you may also like..., myrtle beach & charleston, tour to canada's niagara falls, music cities usa tour featuring memphis, nashville & the biltmore.

“We had an amazing time! Loved the trip. It was relaxing knowing that all the details were taken care of. My husband drives professionally so to take a trip where he could relax was awesome!! I would like to do it again!! Thank you!”

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The 12 Most Helpful Tips for Visiting the Ark Encounter

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Want to be ready for an amazing day at the Ark? Read on for 12 helpful tips for visiting the Ark Encounter – plus a detailed inside look at the ark layout!

Hands down my older son’s favorite stop on our two-week road trip , the Ark Encounter is a full scale replica of Noah’s Ark and an unforgettable visual presentation of the history of the Christian faith. 

Step inside the largest timber-frame structure in the world, measuring longer than a football field – this is a stop you won’t want to miss!

There’s much in store for your time at the Ark. Check out these tips to make the most of your day!

1. Money Saving Tips – Kids Get in Free and More!

The Ark Encounter offers a kid discount – ages 10 and under get in free! This is a fantastic deal and pretty significant, since a kid ages 5-10 used to require a $15 ticket – multiple kids plus the adults and that can add up fast! Adult tickets are $59.99 and kids over 10 are $31.99.

If you’re planning on also visiting the Creation Museum, purchase a combo ticket . Doing so will save you an addition $5-10 per ticket. And yes, kids 10 and under also get in free at the Creation Museum.

There’s also a 3-day Bouncer Pass , which gives you three days of unlimited visits to both attractions within one week.

Parking is $15 ($20 for oversized vehicles). If you’re a nearby resident, you can get a Local Ultimate Bouncer Family Pass , which gives you FREE PARKING (in & out privileges) and unlimited admission to both museums for a year.

They also offer military discounts and specific free days for moms and dads. Check it out here .

The food is expensive. If you’re not wanting to stay the whole day, you can plan your excursion between an early lunch and late dinner.

Ordering drinks from Noah’s Cafe inside the Event Center is a win! You can order milkshake smoothies for the kids to share and they’ll split the drinks for you. They’re quite generous! (Just be prepared to wait) 

2. Visit on a Weekday

Weekends can get pretty busy at the Ark Encounter, as families are typically off of work and school then.

If you’re able, plan to visit on a weekday to avoid crowds.

Even better, come during the school year, if you can. We went on a Friday in early June and found it not crowded at all.

3. Don’t Arrive Too Early

We timed our visit to fit in right after lunch and before dinner, to avoid a pricey meal for six. The line to purchase tickets and get on the shuttle bus was a breeze and extremely quick. This was around 1 or 2 o’clock.

At opening time of 9 o’clock, an Ark employee reported the line wound completely through the roped pathway to ticketing counter and out into the parking lot. Plan to come no earlier than 1 hour after opening to avoid this!

If you’re really intent on starting your day as early as possibly, plan to arrive 20-30 minutes before opening time to beat the rush as much as possible.

4. Use the Bathrooms at the Ark, NOT at the Ticketing Counter

A shuttle bus conveniently transports you on a short ride to the Ark Encounter grounds; it will drop you off right at the Answers Center with large, aptly cleaned, air-conditioned bathrooms. 

The options before you board the shuttle bus are port-a-johns…adequately kept, but hey, they’re port-a-johns – unpleasant conveniences, and notoriously odoriferous and stifling if it’s a hot day. Unless you have kids that just can’t hold it, plan to wait a few minutes until after the ride.

5. Plan for LOTS of walking 

The Ark Encounter is a whole day event. Little did we know before we came, the Ark Encounter is not just the museum, but a huge grounds of different activities and exploration. Particularly if you have kids, plan on spending hours reveling in all the Ark Encounter has to offer!

The grounds are a bit spread out. You’ll be dropped off at the event area, the Answers Center, at the front. Past the Answers Center are the zipline course, playground, plenty of places to eat, a fossil find, and a zoo at the back. See the map here for more details.

If it’s a hot day, there’s not too much shade, expect in the eating areas – I’d plan the outdoor time for the coolest part of the day.

6. The Ark Encounter is VERY Accessibility Friendly

You can rent wheelchairs, strollers, and electric scooters for a fee at guest services in the Answers Center. Buses are wheelchair friendly, as are the grounds and museum – there are HUGE aisles both inside the museum and outside on the grounds. Ramps take you inside the museum and from deck to deck, plus the museum has an elevator.

The buses are also stroller friendly, with a rack above to store strollers, should you bring one.

There is even assistance given for the deaf, those blind or with low vision, and those sensitive to loud noises.

7. Don’t Skip the Video Before You Enter the Ark

If there’s no wait, like we experienced, you may be temped to breeze through the ground level and enter the museum right away – don’t! Take 5 minutes and catch the pre-show time lapse video shown outside that chronicles the building of the museum over a period of 1 1/2 years. It’s a fun watch!

8. Plan Lots of Time to See the Museum

The museum is said to take 2-3 hours to get through – I would say 3 hours is more accurate, if you’re wanting to do more than just breeze through the exhibitions. And if you’re super excited to read up on all the information being presented, you could easily spend 4 hours in the museum alone.

The Ark itself is split into three decks:

Deck 1 – 

Contains the stories of Creation and The Fall leading up to flood, information on the Ark, including what it held and how it did so, the smaller animals, and the animal provisions.

The artwork throughout the museum depicting the stories is simply gorgeous. There are also intricate dioramas here and there, plus a small, fascinating replica of the ark.

We loved learning about the ways that could have been employed to care for the animals and all the thought behind which animals would have been on the ark. Dinosaurs are included and there are numerous replicas of the animals on display. 

Deck 2 – 

Consists mainly of the larger animals, plus a look at the person of Noah. There’s also a small kid area that’s super fun for them to run through. The doors of the ark are on this level and provide a perfect photo opportunity. A video, set in Noah’s time, runs on a loop at one end and is worth checking out.

Deck 3 – 

Contains details on adult life in the ark, living quarters, and food storage. They acknowledge they’ve taken creative liberties with imagining the specifics on Noah and his family, as there’s only so much given in the Bible.

There are also many sections giving an extensive look on the validity of creationism, the flood and the ark as evidenced in creation, even comparing the Biblical account to flood stories from other cultures.

These areas are really worth looking at! If you get overwhelmed with info or run out of time, take phone shots to read up on it later. 

Another video runs on loop at the end and mirrors the video on the second level, but is set in modern times.

There is much to see! And many families will also want to visit it’s sister museum, the Creation Museum. Be aware this is north of the Ark Encounter by 45 minutes and should be visited on a separate day or two.

9. Check Out the Gift Shop

The gift shop is the largest I’ve seen and also has an ice cream counter inside. I love that there’s a sizeable fair trade market area at the back.

10. If You Have Younger Kids, Don’t Miss the Playground and Zoo

The Ark Encounter is extremely kid friendly. Kids have the opportunity to encounter many different animals in the zoo, plus they offer camel rides in the back (make sure to check times on this, as their hours differ from Ark hours). 

The playground boasts bright colors and lots of ways for kids to run, climb, ride, and play. There are two small zipline type rides for them to enjoy, a tunnel for hiding and climbing, musical instruments, and more. Shade and tables are provided on the side for waiting parents.

You’ll have a chance to snap a few funny shots in their Noah and family cut-outs. Those things always give us a few giggles. 

On top of this, the Ark Encounter also has a virtual reality experience (we didn’t try this), a fossil sluice, and a zipline, aerial course, and free fall tower (last three for a separate fee). I would recommend choosing a zipline elsewhere – the fees are pretty pricey and the zipline isn’t high enough off the ground to satisfy the kid who’s truly a thrill seeker.

11. Check Out the Available Videos, Presentations, and Shows

When you first arrive, you’ll be given a schedule of the day’s events. The Answers Center offers videos, live presentations, and even concerts. The zoo also provides live animal presentations. We attended a theatrical presentation performed by the students of BJU and really enjoyed it!

You can also check out the daily program in advance online here .

12. Plan for Kid Conversations After 

Enjoying the experience of the Ark Encounter as a family opens a door to have some worthwhile conversations with kids, both as you walk through and once time has been given to process everything. 

Just getting their narrative and impressions of what they took in is valuable and could lead to some wonderful conversations!

I hope you’ve gotten a good feel of what the Ark Encounter is and how to prepare for it to maximize your time and experience 🙂. If you’ve visited the Ark or have a desire to make the trip, feel free to leave a comment below!

My Can’t-Do-Without Travel Products

If you’re taking a trip this year, here are some of my favorite products I always take with me! These are affiliate links, so if you do decide to use one of them, I’ll earn a commission. But in honesty, these are the exact products I use and recommend to everyone, even my own friends and family 😊…

~ Compression Packing Cubes – If you’ve never heard of these, do yourself a favor and take a look! These cubes compress and hold your clothes, leaving room for other items in your bag or suitcase. If you love being organized, you’ll love these as they fit nicely and keep everything neat and orderly. The reason I love this particular brand is because they have a card slot on each cube where you can write what’s inside (instead of having to guess every time or try to peer through muddled mesh). In all my research, these are the only cubes I’ve found that have these labels – they’re a game changer and a head above other compression cubes. Several colors to choose from!

~ Honey House Naturals Bee Bar Lotion – This was a lifesaver out in the dry Arizona heat that almost killed my skin! Easy to pop in your purse, they come in both travel size and full size. Amazon even has a value pack where you can get one of each. Hawaiian scent is amazing and my favorite by far. I picked up a travel size in a gift shop in Nevada’s Valley of Fire State Park and just about cried for joy. My son gifted the full size to me for Christmas and I use it year round now!

~ Crocs Women’s Swiftwater Sandals – These are my everything shoes in the summer. No, they’re not the clunky Crocs that you’re used to seeing. These are cute and feminine and so comfortable they pass the day-long amusement park test. I always make sure to pack them when I know there will be warm weather days. There are many different color options – we always have at least 2 pairs in our house!

This post was originally published on June 29, 2021 and has been updated.

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Are support animals allowed?

Good question! Service animals only are allowed.

Do the “extras” cost extra, such as the zip lines, camel rides and virtual reality experience? Thank you!

Hi Lisa! Some of the extras are included in the ticket price – the carousel, Ararat Ridge zoo, children’s zoo, playground, and Ark resident concerts. Other activities, such as mining and fossil find, the zip lines, camel rides, and VR, are an additional cost. For detailed info, check out (bottom of the web page): https://arkencounter.com/plan-your-visit/#explore

Hope you have a fabulous visit!!

This would be worth traveling for! Thanks for sharing.

Definitely worth it 🙂

My son and d-i-l and grandson visited this and loved it. Thanks for all the great details and tips!

You’re welcome, Barbara! So glad you had a good time!

What a cool experience! I’ve never heard of this place before, where is it?

Hi Anita! The Ark Encounter is located in Williamstown, Kentucky, which is northern KY. It’s halfway between Cincinnati and Lexington.

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Learn about a biblical story or live out your 'Evan Almighty' dreams at the Ark Encounter

You might remember "Evan Almighty," the comedy film starring actors Morgan Freeman and Steve Carell that shows the modern tale of Noah's Ark. Freeman, who plays God, challenges Carell's character to build an ark and bring two of each animal species aboard prior to the flood.

While the ark featured in the film is located in Virginia, there's something pretty similar in the Bluegrass State, allowing Kentuckians to see inside the Biblical tale.

Noah's Ark in Kentucky: Religious tour of Kentucky: Faith Trail offers a new way to see the Bluegrass State

Ark Encounter, located in Williamstown, is less than two hours from Louisville. Here's what we know:

What is Noah's Ark?

Noah's Ark is a Biblical story from the Book of Genesis in which God commanded Noah and his family to build an ark to escape a dangerous flood he would send to wipe out the land, according to churchofjesuschrist.org. Noah was asked to put two animals of each species on the boat so they could repopulate once the flood water receded.

What is the Ark Encounter in Kentucky?

Kentucky's Ark Encounter primarily features a full-size replica of Noah's Ark from the Biblical story on its grounds, as well as a zoo, restaurant and zip lining courses.

Stretching more than 500 feet in length, 80 feet in width and 50 feet in height, the creation attracts a diverse range of visitors.

The ark itself features three floors. The first discusses the size of the ark itself, in addition to the types of animals aboard, while the second looks at "the pre-flood world, animal concerns, and an exploration of Noah and how God could have prepared him for his monumental task." The third floor showcases living quarters for Noah and his family, flood geology and a special exhibit.

Where is Ark Encounter?

Ark Encounter is located in Williamstown, in Grant County, halfway between Cincinnati and Lexington, and right off I-75. The address is 1 Ark Encounter Drive.

Ark Encounter 2024: 'Glamping' makes comeback near Kentucky's Ark Encounter

What are the hours for the Ark Encounter?

Ark Encounter is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday to Saturday. It's closed on Sunday.

How much are tickets to the Ark Encounter?

Different ticket types are available for purchase, according to Ark Encounter. Parking is not included. See below:

• General Admission (for Ark): Before tax, prices begin at $59.99 for adults ages 18-59, $49.99 for seniors ages 60+, $31.99 for youth between 11 and 17 and free for children ten and under.
• General Admission (Ark and Museum: To be used within a week): Before tax, prices start at $99.99 for adults, $89.99 for seniors, $59.99 for youth and free for children ten and below.
• 3-Day Bouncer Pass (unlimited visits to both within a week of purchasing): Before tax, prices begin at $114.99 for adults, $104.99 for seniors, $69.99 for youth and free for children.

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all photos courtesy the Ark Encounter

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 2022, children age 10 and under receive free admission!

The Ark Encounter features a 510-foot-long reconstruction of Noah’s ark built according to the biblical dimensions.

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.

The Ararat Ridge Zoo

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 Grammy-nominated gospel group Southern Salvation, the Ark Encounter’s resident artists, 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, the 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 over the trees in the stunning valley beside the Ark with 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.

Kids love the Ark Encounter’s accessible playground.

November 25-December 30, 2022, the Ark Encounter will host ChristmasTime.

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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Noah's Ark & Patriarchs Tours: From Noah's ark to Job, Abraham & Jacob

**Tour reservation form at the bottom of this web page**

Embark on a captivating 12-day, 13-night journey of sites associated with the book of Genesis in eastern and southeastern Turkey. We also offer 5-day and 3-day shorter tours of just the Noah’s Ark sites. Explore the legendary site where Noah’s Ark is believed to have come to rest and the historical landscapes of the ancient Kingdom of Urartu (Ararat). Walk in the paths of the biblical Patriarchs in southern Turkey, as they made their way to the Promised Land. Visit both the Euphrates and Tigris Rivers. Marvel at the majestic mountains of Urartu and the lush Harran plains. Conclude your adventure with a visit to the  enigmatic Göbeklitepe and Karahantepe archaeological sites . This unforgettable tour is an ideal experience for individuals, families, friends, or church groups—a true Biblical journey of a lifetime!

12-Day Noah’s Ark to Abraham Tour Dates Available ($3600/adult & $2400/child)

• September 24-October 6 (Arrive in Istanbul September 23. Depart October 6.) *Cappadocia optional pre-tour available.
• October 29-November 10 (Arrive in Istanbul October 28. Depart November 10.) *Cappadocia optional pre-tour available.

5-Day Complete Noah’s Ark Only Tour Dates Available ($1800/adult & $1200/child)

• September 24-September 29 (Arrive in Istanbul September 23. Depart September 29.) *Cappadocia optional pre-tour available.
• October 29-November 3 (Arrive in Istanbul October 28. Depart November 3.) *Cappadocia optional pre-tour available.

3-Day Short Noah’s Ark Only Tour Dates Available ($1100/adult & $750/child)**

**Domestic flights are NOT included.

• September 24-September 27 (Arrive in Istanbul September 23. Arrive in eastern Turkey, September 24. Depart eastern Turkey, September 27.) *Cappadocia optional pre-tour available.
• October 29-November 1 (Arrive in Istanbul October 28. Arrive in eastern Turkey, October 29. Depart eastern Turkey, November 1.) *Cappadocia optional pre-tour available.

12-Day, 5-Day & 3-Day Daily Tours Itineraries*

Touch the plus sign + below to expand a specific day’s details including photos of the sites.

* The itinerary can be changed by NoahsArkScans.com based on ground conditions and other factors. If you have any questions you may contact us at [email protected] or you can call us at +1-916-258-7092. Or write to us at: NoahsArkScans.com, ATTN: Andrew Jones, 3032 Verwood Place, Roseville, CA 95747, USA.

12-Day Patriarch Tour Itinerary ($3600/adult & $2400/child)

• Arrive anytime on Day 1. You will stay overnight in Istanbul before flying to eastern Turkey the next day.

• Fly from Istanbul to Igdir (IGD) or Agri (AJI) airport. Domestic flight is included in the tour price.
• Possibly see the ark site for the first time depending on the flight schedule.
• Overnight in Dogubayazit.
• Visit the fossil bed site showing evidence of the global flood.
• Next we will visit the Noah's ark visitor center and the ark site. Spend the rest of the day exploring the site, watching videos about the history of the research including the latest geophysical scan results and listening to lectures about the Durupinar Noah's ark site.
• We will then visit the possible landing site of the ark further up the mountain and the nearby stone that looks like a giant altar.
• Finally we will end the day by driving back via one of the branches of the old Silk Route that Marco Polo took on his journey to China when he mentioned the ark. See small villages and rolling green hills with ship.

• We start the day with a trip to the nearby "Anchor stone village" or "Village of 8" known today as Arzap. Here are found the giant stones with holes that many believe to be the drogue stones used on Noah's ark! We will explore the area including the site Ron Wyatt thought was the burial site of Noah and his wife and the giant altar like stone at the base of the hills.
• Next we will visit the ancient Urartu fortress above Dogubayazit. The ancient Kingdom of Urartu is where we get the name Ararat from and it was in this mountainous kingdom that the Bible says the ark landed.
• Nearby we will visit the Ottoman era Ishak Pasha palace with it's magnificent view of Dogubayazit below and Arzap in the distance.

• We will journey to the start of the Euphrates River (Murat) and learn how Noah's descendents left this area and arrived on the Plains of Shinar to built the Tower of Babel and the first cities.
• If time permits we will also visit the nearby natural Fish Lake where Dogubayazit gets its water and have a picnic in this beautiful mountain lake.

• We will drive 2 hours south to the city of Van which sits on the beautiful Van Lake. Van was the ancient capital of Urartu where we get the name Ararat today.
• First we will visit the regional archaeological museum of Van which houses important artifacts for different time periods especially during the Urartu period.
• Next we will visit the ancient capital for the Kingdom of Urartu that was a fortress on a rock outcrop near the present day Museum. You will be able to explore the fortress and experience some amazing views of Lake Van and the area.
• Finally if we have time we will stop by a Van Cat House where you can pet and feed the famous Van cats a special breed from this area with white fur and blue and green eyes.
• Overnight in Van.

• We will head east to the Urartu castle at Çavuştepe. Here you will see examples of their cuneiform writing and food storage system in a beautiful valley setting.
• Finally we will spend the rest of the day taking a ferry out to Akdamar Island on Lake Van where there is a ruined Armenian monastery. You will see examples of Armenian standing stones called khachkars used as grave markers. Some try to claim the Arzap stones with holes are khachkars. You will get to compare them first hand.

• Today we will leave the Van area and head south towards SanlUrfa (Urfa - a proposed site for Ur). We will see the Malabadi Bridge built over 800 years ago. We will end up in Batman by the end of the day.
• Overnight in Batman.

• After sleeping in Batman we will head to Midyat and visit one of the few Assyrian/Syriac Christian churches where they still use a form of Aramaic.
• Next we drive west to the town of Mardin with its narrow and cobbled streets. This historic town is near the Tigris river. Some of the buildings date back to the 14th century. If possible we will also visit the Byzantine fortress of Dara near Mardin.
• We head north from Mardin towards Diyarbakır. Along the way we will visit an ancient tepe or hill that a few have proposed to be the site of the Tower of Babel. Climbing the manmade hill we'll get a view of the small village below. Finally as we approach Diyarbakır we will visit the Dicle Bridge (Ongözlü Bridge) which spans the Tigris River and was built around 1065 AD.
• Overnight in Diyarbakır.

• Starting off we will get to see some of Diyarbakır for the last time as we head further west across southeastern Turkey.
• Noah's ark? Well we will see Mount Karaca (Karaca Dağ), a shield volcano and a proposed location for the landing of Noah's ark by some. So far no ark has been found there!
• We will cross the Euphrates River and continue on to one of the royal burial sites of the Greek kingdom of Commagene near the base of Mount Nemrut. Nearby we will visit the Mameluke fort at Yenikale.
• Finally we will end the day with sunset on Mount Nemrut with the Harran plain in the distance bathin in the setting sun.
• Overnight at the base of Mount Nemrut.

• From Nemrut Mountain we will head south and cross over the Euphrates River again and stop at a vista point to see the famous Atatürk Dam.
• We will drive to the famous Neolithic stone site of Göbeklitepe. A site that is changing our understanding of early history of the world and this region. We will discuss how it could possibly fit into a Biblical timeframe.
• Finally we will end the day in SanlUrfa/Urfa. We will check out the famous Urfa covered bazaar and taste the famous Turkish Kunefe dessert. Yum!
• Overnight in SanlUrfa (Urfa).

• We will spend the morning at the central park where the birth cave of Abraham is located. Here among the trees we will find a spot to discuss the theories about the location of Ur and the possibility that this is the real Ur of the Chaldees.
• Those that want to can climb up the nearby castle and see a great view of the surrounding historical area.
• Finally we will visit the large Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum with its artifacts from Göbeklitepe and other ancient sites.

• On our way to Harran we will make a stop at the traditional cave of Job where he suffered under his trials.
• Next we will drive south near the Syrian border to visit Harran. It was here that Abraham's father Terah passed away after they left Ur for Canaan. We will see the archaeological site of Harran and the traditional beehive style homes.
• Last we will visit the well of Jacob. After fleeing his brother Esau it was at this well that Jacob met his future wife Rachel. Many years earlier it was also at this well that Isaac's future wife Rebecca was at.

• Fly back to Istanbul from SanlUrfa (domestic flight included in the tour).

5-Day Complete Noah's Ark Tour Itinerary ($1800/adult & $1200/child)

• Fly back to Istanbul from Van (domestic flight included in the tour).

3-Day Short Noah's Ark Tour Itinerary ($1100/adult & $750/child)

• Fly from Istanbul to Igdir (IGD) or Agri (AJI) airport. Domestic flight is NOT included in the tour price.
• Fly back to Istanbul from Igdir (domestic flight is NOT included in the tour price).

Tour Registration & Payment Form

• By checking this box I know the visa requirements for Turkey (currently Americans do no require a visa). I agree that I qualify for a visa and that the country that issued my passport is eligible for a visa. See below for links to Turkey's visa requirements. NoahsArkScans.com can advise tour participants on the visa process for Turkey.
• I would like to subscribe to updates about the Noah's ark research and Mount Sinai/Exodus route.
• I understand that the credit card process fee of 2.9%-3.5% will be calculated and added to all the prices of the trip on the final payment.
• I understand that the final payment is due 60 days before the trip's departure date. Cancellation and refund details are in the "Terms and Condition."
• By checking this box I have read and understood and have agreed to the below terms:
• I consent to having this website store my submitted information so they can respond to my inquiry.

Reservation Payment Details for the 12-Day Patriarch Tour

• 1 Person - $650.00
• 2 People - $1,300.00
• 3 People - $1,950.00
• 4 People - $2,600.00

Reservation Payment Details for the Complete 5-Day Noah's Ark ONLY Tour

• 1 Person - $325.00
• 2 People - $650.00
• 3 People - $975.00
• 4 People - $1,300.00

Reservation Payment Details for the Short 3-Day Noah's Ark ONLY Tour

• 1 Person - $200.00
• 2 People - $400.00
• 3 People - $600.00
• 4 People - $800.00

Optional Cappadocia Pre-Tour Dates

• September 20-23, 2024 (Arrive in Istanbul September 19) - We will fly to Cappadocia September 20th and spend the next days exploring underground cities and churches. Hiking beautiful natural scenery and visiting archaeological museums. Balloon ride is optional and depends on weather and wind conditions.
• October 25-28, 2024 (Arrive in Istanbul October 24) - We will fly to Cappadocia October 25th and spend the next days exploring underground cities and churches. Hiking beautiful natural scenery and visiting archaeological museums. Balloon ride is optional and depends on weather and wind conditions.

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• Patriarchs 12-Day Tour (Noah’s Ark to Abraham)
• Noah’s Ark 3-Day Tour
• Mount Ararat Ascent (5-6 Days)
• Mount Nemrut, Mount Suphan and Mount Ararat (9 Days)
• Kaçkar Mountains Trek (7 Days)
• Mount Kaçkar & Mount Ararat Quest (13 days)
• Eastern Turkey
• Southeast Turkey

Patriarchs Tour: From Noah’s ark to Job, Abraham & Jacob (12-day / 13-nights, 5-day & 3-day tours)

Turkey’s most exciting trip.

Join us on an exclusive tour that features sites no other tour will visit relating to Noah’s ark and the path of the Patriarchs and post-flood history!

This tour has you spending more days on the ground in eastern Turkey than other tours! This tour also includes bottled water during the day, all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner), unlike others. Tour price includes all ground transportation during tour dates (to and from hotels and airports), your domestic flights in Turkey and your Istanbul hotel when you arrive in Turkey (it does NOT include any Istanbul hotel at the end of the tour if you decide to stay in Istanbul longer). This is your tour for seeing the real Noah’s ark, the possible birth place of Abraham, Jacob’s well and even Göbeklitepe! If you wish to see the ark in the shortest amount of time and for a cheaper price check out our 3-day tour on this website.

Exclusive on this tour:

• Fossil bed site.
• A free book about the Noah’s ark research if available.
• The original landing site of Noah’s ark near the Iranian border.
• Newly discovered drogue stone (aka “anchor stone”) without any markings on it.
• In-depth lectures about the results of recent geophysical surveys from 2014, 2019 & the most recent 2021 scans done by the Turkish government.
• After the tour everyone will receive digital copies of our Noah’s ark presentation, digital photo books of the ark site’s history, etc. that are sold in the Discovered Media online store here .
• The headwaters of the Euphrates River. Near to the ark site is the start of the Murat River one of the main tributaries of the Euphrates. We will learn how Noah’s descendents journeyed from the area of the ark to Mesopotamia by following the river valley system west and then south.
• And this is just the start of what we will see. The journey will take you to Van the capital of the Urartu (Ararat) kingdom and on to southeastern Turkey through Midyat, Mardin, Diyarbikar, Nemut Dagi, SanlUrfa (Urfa/Ur) and Harran including Göbeklitepe.

Come see where mankind restarted after the great global flood. See and hear exciting new pieces of evidence for Noah’s ark and the flood. This tour usually will run multiple times during the late spring, through summer and into the fall.

Please click on the “ Book Now ” button on this page which will direct you to the signup forms and payment options. You will also be able to select the date for your tour on that page. The following dates are being offered:

12-Day Noah’s Ark to Abraham Tour Dates Available ($3600/adult & $2400/child)

• July 16-28 (Arrive in Istanbul July 15. Depart July 28.)
• August 13-25 (Arrive in Istanbul August 12. Depart August 25.)
• September 24-October 6 (Arrive in Istanbul September 23. Depart October 6.) *Cappadocia optional pre-tour available.
• October 29-November 10 (Arrive in Istanbul October 28. Depart November 10.) *Cappadocia optional pre-tour available.

5-Day Complete Noah’s Ark Only Tour Dates Available ($1800/adult & $1200/child)

• July 16-21 (Arrive in Istanbul July 15. Depart July 21.)
• August 13-18 (Arrive in Istanbul August 12. Depart August 18.)
• September 24-September 29 (Arrive in Istanbul September 23. Depart September 29.) *Cappadocia optional pre-tour available.
• October 29-November 3 (Arrive in Istanbul October 28. Depart November 3.) *Cappadocia optional pre-tour available.

3-Day Short Noah’s Ark Only Tour Dates Available ($1100/adult & $750/child)**

**Domestic flights are NOT included.

• July 16-19 (Arrive in Istanbul July 15. Arrive in eastern Turkey, July 16. Depart eastern Turkey, July 19.)
• August 13-16 (Arrive in Istanbul August 12. Arrive in eastern Turkey, August 13. Depart eastern Turkey, August 16.)
• September 24-September 27 (Arrive in Istanbul September 23. Arrive in eastern Turkey, September 24. Depart eastern Turkey, September 27.) *Cappadocia optional pre-tour available.
• October 29-November 1 (Arrive in Istanbul October 28. Arrive in eastern Turkey, October 29. Depart eastern Turkey, November 1.) *Cappadocia optional pre-tour available.

*Optional Cappadocia Pre-Tour Dates

• September 20-23, 2024 (Arrive in Istanbul September 19) – We will fly to Cappadocia September 20th and spend the next days exploring underground cities and churches. Hiking beautiful natural scenery and visiting archaeological museums. Balloon ride is optional and depends on weather and wind conditions.
• October 25-28, 2024 (Arrive in Istanbul October 24) – We will fly to Cappadocia October 25th and spend the next days exploring underground cities and churches. Hiking beautiful natural scenery and visiting archaeological museums. Balloon ride is optional and depends on weather and wind conditions.

Previous Tour

Booking for patriarchs tour: from noah’s ark to job, abraham & jacob (12-day / 13-nights, 5-day & 3-day tours).

Truth Traveler

Get seated in the Truth Traveler time machine and journey back to the time of Noah in our immersive virtual reality experience, A Flood of Reality ! Pod, the lovable robot, will be your guide as you witness the building of Noah’s ark, experience the flood, venture inside the ark with the animals, and more—including some exciting surprises along the way!

A Flood of Reality Virtual Reality Experience

A Flood of Reality VR experience shows throughout most of the day.

Ticket prices are:

• Adult/Senior (ages 11+): $16.50
• Youth (under 10): $12.50

Save $2 when you purchase early access discount vouchers on our website or at the Ark Admissions ticketing counters. This discount voucher must be redeemed for showtimes prior to 1 p.m. Monday–Saturday or any showtime on Sunday (when attraction is open—see hours ) at the Truth Traveler building.

If you choose to purchase tickets without a discount voucher when you arrive at the Truth Traveler building, we recommend purchasing tickets early in the day due to high demand.

About the VR experience

The Truth Traveler’s A Flood of Reality is a totally immersive 4K virtual reality experience that will feel like a “ride,” though you will be comfortably and safely seated in MX4D® Motion EFX Experience seats while wearing a state-of-the-art VR headset. Your seat will move and provide a variety of special effects in coordination with what you see and hear in your VR headset.

Advisory: It is recommended that you be at least 40” tall and be able to sit and support yourself to enjoy this experience. This experience may not be appropriate for people who may be pregnant, have heart, back, head, leg, or neck conditions, other physical limitations, or those that may have reactions to scents, fog, or strobe-lighting effects. Closed Captions or subtitles are not included with this experience. Full advisory and special effects information

Bigger Than Imagination

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About the Ark

• Ark Encounter Map
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Winter Hours

Sunday: Noon – 7 PM Monday - Saturday: 9 AM - 7 PM

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

Sister Attraction

Ark Encounter Location

place 1 Ark Encounter Drive   Williamstown, KY 41097 ( see directions ) Just west of the intersection of KY-36 and I-75 (at exit 154).

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In this program, Rick and the team travel from the ruins of Noah’s Ark toward the original landing site of the Ark in the mountains of Ararat.

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