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Groups Love the Ark Encounter!

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One of the most popular tourist destinations in Kentucky, the Ark Encounter is a unique attraction that draws visitors from all over the world. The imposing timber-frame structure is 510 feet long and 85 feet wide, and its incredible size hints at the world of discovery waiting inside.

As you move through the life-size Ark, you’ll explore three decks of world-class exhibits that show what life may have been like for Noah’s family before, during, and after the flood. These exhibits discuss how the animals could have fit on the ark and how Noah’s family may have cared for them, the impacts of the flood on the earth and climate, how this event changed our world, and much more!

Beyond the Ark itself, nature-loving guests find much to enjoy with our paved trails, luscious gardens, and extensive zoo. The kangaroo walkabout provides a unique opportunity to experience our red kangaroos up close, and other animal encounters and keeper chats provide great ways to learn about and enjoy some of our other exotic animals.

Ararat Ridge Zoo

You can also take a ride on our Italian-made carousel which features animal kinds from the Ark Encounter. This one-of-a-kind carousel sits flush with the floor to allow wheelchair access. It’s perfect for the young and young at heart, and rides are free!

We also have several add-on activities available for an additional cost, such as Truth Traveler, our popular virtual reality experience that brings the days of Noah to life; zip lining above the treetops; and special behind-the-scenes animal encounters that allow guests a closer look at some of our animal friends.

With all there is to see and do, we imagine you’ll probably get hungry during your visit, so we’ve provided a variety of snack and dining options for you to choose from. Gift shops also offer resources available for purchase, souvenirs for all ages, and fair-trade products to help support economically disadvantaged artisans.

Emzara’s Buffet

And when you need to rest your feet, plan to visit the Answers Center and enjoy live presentations by popular speakers, educational videos, or a concert performed by our resident artists—TrueSong. Check our daily schedule to see what’s happening during your visit.

There is something for everyone to enjoy at Ark Encounter. And to make things even more fun, music events, special holiday celebrations, and other unique experiences are scattered throughout the year to add to your experience.

This summer, the 40 Days & 40 Nights of Christian Music festival will run July 30–September 7. This is the world’s largest Christian music festival and features headlining artists from a variety of genres, including contemporary, southern gospel, faith country, and more.  

40 Days & 40 Nights of Christian Music Festival

To wrap up the calendar year, our ChristmasTime event adds a festive glow to the season—with twinkling lights that warm the air, live music and shows, holiday dining, and more. We have some exciting and very special events planned for the upcoming Christmas season, so be sure to check our calendar as you plan your visit.

ChristmasTime at the Ark Encounter

Groups can receive discounted rates and specialized assistance for check-in and ticketing. Learn more and plan your trip today at ArkEncounter.com/visit.