Ark Encounter
Biblical History
Prepare to be blown away as you explore the life-size reconstruction of Noah’s Ark.
Overview
Willianstown, Kentucky
The Ark Encounter is a one-of-a-kind, historically themed attraction in Williamstown, Kentucky. In an entertaining, educational, and immersive way, it presents a number of historical events centered on a full-size Ark, which is the largest timber-frame structure in the world
The Ark Encounter demonstrates that the Bible is scientifically accurate, and it also serves as an evangelistic experience. Ken Ham, president and CEO of Answers in Genesis, the Creation Museum, and Ark Encounter, has stated, “It’s called Ark Encounter because people will encounter the Ark, and then encounter God’s Word, and then encounter Jesus Christ.”
Points of Interest
How Big Is the Ark?
You’ve probably seen pictures of Noah’s Ark in children’s books, complete with giraffe heads sticking out the top. But the real Noah’s Ark, the one described in the Bible, was huge. At 510 feet long, 51 feet high, and 85 feet wide, this modern Ark shows that Noah’s Ark was no dinghy. It spans over 1.5 times the length of an American football field. It was wholly seaworthy—a ship that kept the occupants safe during a yearlong, worldwide flood.
Recreating this massive ship at Ark Encounter has been an engineering feat. While the Ark is a full-scale model, it was originally designed as a ship but constructed like a building to meet structural codes and requirements. The enormous logs were either standing dead timbers or timber harvested from renewable forests. In board feet (laid end to end), there is enough timber in the Ark construction to go from Williamstown, Kentucky, to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Its roof is long enough for NASA to park three space shuttles nose to tail on it!
Exhibits
At the Ark Encounter, you’ll see a variety of exhibits that will show guests what life might have been like for Noah and his family on the Ark, including the Living Quarters and Noah’s Study. Learn about the animal kinds that were on the Ark, and how Noah and his family might have cared for all of the creatures. Scores of animal sculptures, furniture, and props have been designed following extensive research.
Bring all of your questions about Noah, his family, the animals, the Flood, the Ark, and the culture of the pre-Flood and post-Flood worlds, because you’re sure to get answers when you visit.
Ararat Ridge Zoo and Petting Zoo Area
The Ararat Ridge Zoo and petting zoo area are fun places where both children and adults will enjoy a hands-on experience with some of God’s amazing creatures. See kangaroos, yaks, zebras, and more in this ever-expanding zoo. Don’t miss the live animal programs throughout the day. Camel rides are available.
Restaurant and Zip Lines
The Ark Encounter’s snack stands and 1,500-seat restaurant feature a variety of delicious food offerings, including options for special dietary needs.
While you are visiting, make sure to set aside time for the huge zip line course.
Helpful Tips
- Before visiting, check out ArkEncounter.com to help plan your visit.
- Visit the Creation Museum in nearby Petersburg, Kentucky, while you are in the area. Creation Museum/Ark Encounter combo tickets are available and can help you save money.
- Ark Encounter is conveniently located just off I-75 in Williamstown, Kentucky. You may want to look at the park map for an idea of what to expect when you arrive.
- Find the perfect place to stay during your visit to Ark Encounter. Start with this list of recommended nearby hotels and lodging.
- Before planning your visit, check out other helpful tips on the Ark Encounter website, including finding out about other family-friendly attractions in the Northern Kentucky/Cincinnati region.
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