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    Ark Encounter

    4.2 (727 reviews)
    Closed 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
    Updated 2 months ago

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    These were the photos we received instead of putting them in the magnet as advertised-- bottom row "Encounter" is cut off. Smh
    Trish B.

    It took me a while to write this because I was conflicted with my experiences throughout my visit to The Ark Encounter. Although, it was a good experience over all there is definitely potential to be better as there are some improvements needed. The Ark itself is beautiful outside as well as in AND the presence of GOD is there. It's a lot of info to take in so on-goers should arrive early. Wish they had a guided tour option and have it led by a staff to walk you through --that would be dope! It was super crowded which was very overwhelming and overstimulating for me (on a Saturday -- so perhaps the weekdays are less of a crowd. (2) reasons I took off stars has to do with the photo situation we experienced (FOTOFX) and gift shop at the bottom of the Ark before you exit: With the 'FOTOFX' it's like they force you to get certain packages just to get 1-2 background you may want. We wanted to get the magnet and the background of The Cross and were told we had to get that particular package in order to get the magnet and pic of The Cross. We had already taken pics at the entrance with the Ark & the rainbow so with their packages the backgrounds are: + x2 different backgrounds of The Ark +The Rainbow (GOD's covenant to not flood the entire Earth) +The Cross (JESUS's promise of Salvation) If people have already taken their photo op's infront of the Ark and the Rainbow but you're forcing them to get these in order to get what we really wanted -- which was the photo of the cross behind us and the magnet then like what are we doing here!? I don't think it was very CHRIST like, tbh. Granted the folks who were there I know they were just doing their jobs but this should be CHANGED, ASAP. People should be allowed to get the photos of their choosing not strong-armed into getting picture packages. Then you give us the magnet with the pictures BUT you don't put the picture into the magnet??? That's false advertising. We were told "Oh, we don't have scissors". So you tell us this after we pay... though. THEN "Encounter" is missing from the bottom half of our pictures... This was NOT COOL! Price of picture package: (4) prints + magnet (that was suppose to have the picture inside - $49.82 Next: the gift shop at the bottom of The Ark -- I didn't see enough staff walking around to assist guests who may have had questions or needed to be pointed into the right direction. Customers walking around aimlessly looking for what appeared to be one register. The line was crazy folks were jumping the lines. There was a lady who got infront of us while we were in line and her excuse was "I'm ready to check out". We turned our head for not even a minute to see a journal that was right next to the register -- that was crazy. Once we got rung up who stood out for me was Desmond -- so sweet, meek and mild. Desmond shared, "I saw what happen" and "I'm sorry about that". He had nothing to be sorry about but he was so gracious and kindhearted. Please Employ More Staff like Desmond -- that's a great staff you have on your team! Ultimately, there are some things to be aware of as stated above and also if you get a Uber or Lyft there it's hard to get one leaving as we tried and it was over $100 just to bring us 11 miles to our AIRBNB. So, if you're from out of town PLEASE get a rental car! I would like to come back during a weekday and recommend that everyone experience it for themselves at least once. This review is reflective of my visit on: 10/18/25 Duration at Ark Encounter was: 3.5 hours

    Birthday present from my Sis!
    Michelle D.

    WOW the ark at the Ark Encounter, in Williamstown, Kentucky, was massive! The pictures do not do it justice. It was created to the same specifications of the Ark in the Bible. We went the Tuesday after Labor Day which was wonderful as there were no crowds and hardly any children since school recently started back. Don't get me wrong, I love kids, but it added to the peaceful experience. I suggest buying all your tickets online as you will save some money. We parked in the lot and caught a bus up the hill to the ark. We bypassed the Answer Center and grabbed some pics of the ark as there weren't many people there yet. Then we headed to the virtual reality theater, Truth Traveler. If you purchase your tickets online you must see the attraction before 1:00 PM. We walked right in and were seated immediately. The virtual show lasted roughly 10 minutes and included large bursts of air blowing on you and the seat moved a little. But you aren't strapped in so don't worry. We both enjoyed the show! Our next stop was the ark. Leading up to the ark stop at each monument to see the creation story both written and carved on stones. You start on the ground level and walk up ramps to each deck. Each deck, except the ground level, has restrooms and a water fountain. The exhibits were nice and there were two theaters on two decks. Lastly we checked out the zoo which included a sloth, camel, alpaca, anteater, and several other animals and birds. Don't forget to walk into the kangaroo and wallaby exhibit. Get up close and personal with these animals. But don't get too close LOL. Everyone working at the park truly seemed to love their job and were willing to offer help when needed. I highly recommend taking the time to experience the Ark Encounter!

    Hannah E.

    Great experience! The Ark is shockingly enormous and the detail and accuracy is amazing. The staff is out of this world nice. Great place to take a family, especially over Christmas!

    Brigitte L.

    This was an absolute amazing experience! You literally don't imagine how big the Ark really is until you experience this. Parking is $15 and fills up fast. We had to park a ways out but wasn't a bad walk to the front. Recommend getting your ticket online before you go because then you won't have to stand in 2 different lines. When you arrive and after you get your tickets and go thru security you'll board a bus that takes you to the Ark. it's probably about a 5-7 minute drive. Not long at all. Not only is there the Ark experience but they also have the zoo and a carousel and a virtual reality experience. There are a few eateries around also. FYI that if you get the combo ticket for the Creation Museum and the Ark that the drive from the Ark to the museum is 45 minutes. We didn't have time to go to the museum so that part of our ticket was a waste. But we really enjoyed the Ark. it's a lot of walking.

    Nazia C.

    Super cool experience. It's a biblical replica of the ark. It's massive and so impressive. Parking is $15 and from there you walk to the ticket center which then takes you on a short bus ride to the ark experience. Children under 10 are free. Inside the ark is a representation of what it would have been like during that time. You'll see so many different animal kinds (in pairs) and how they would've been housed and fed. You also see how Noah and his family would have lived and grew food to sustain themselves. There's clean restrooms inside and some snack stations on each level.

    Summer H.

    Amazing museum gives a great idea of how Genesis could have happened and all its implications

    stork
    Janet T.

    Highly recommend but plan on a long visit with lots of walking. We attended on Labor Day weekend on a Sunday. After parking, we stood in a long line, to progress to another line to take the bus to the event center. The first building is called the event center with a coffee stand, snack stand, bookstore, and theater. There are a few different times of the day that different videos are shown. They are educational and explanatory. I would recommend them. From the event center there is a bit of a walk to get to the entrance of the ark. Along the path are some informational pillars and small animal cages. There is a point you can stop for a nice picture of the ark. Entering under the ark there is an area for very long lines, we did stand in line to get in but thankfully they weren't that backed up. Inside the ark: there are lots of exhibit/dioramas to visit and read. It appears that on each level (of 3 levels) there are short videos to watch. Some areas were backed up with lines. There wasn't much interaction to the exhibits. Some were based on fact, some on speculation. We ate dinner at the buffet. It was full with diners but it never felt busy. The food was fresh, tasty, and we enjoyed the offerings. You enter in to the salad bar and sides, then continue to the entree stations. It was easy to fill our plate and run out of room. There is a small dessert area, and two ample drink stations. Plates, silverware, and cups are all disposable. After our meal and towards the closing time, we walked through the zoo area. While I would say it was a small zoo, it is very enjoyable. Some of the sections didn't have animals but those that we saw were interesting. Note - Sunday hours are shorter than other days and we didn't feel we had enough time to experience everything. We wanted to be able to eat dinner so we had to rush through part of the second floor and the entire third floor of the ark.

    Ark Model
    Michael K.

    There's not much you cannot say about the Ark. It is a must for anyone. I have read the story of Noah more than 100 maybe even 1000 times, I never understood the staggering scope of the immensity and detail that four men accomplished with the help and guidance of God. You will never know, until you step next to the Ark. Think US Navy Aircraft Carrier and your getting close.

    Leslie A.

    We only did the ark and the gift shop. There is also a zoo that is included with your ticket but it was so hot we didn't go. Everything thing was clean. Everyone was helpful and nice Beautiful craftsmanship throughout. Lots of information

    Marisol F.

    Where can I begin ! This place is Amazing! We came to visit with my church and it was a total blast . The Ark is huge and well represented . People are so friendly . Is nice to share the experience with people like minded . You need 2 days to really go through at all .

    Amanda B.

    The Ark Encounter was an experience. We flew into Cincinnati and stayed the night there before venturing down an hour to the middle of nowhere for the Ark. We also stopped a bit out of the way at the Big Bone Lick state park (which was small and free) and saw bison and deer and old fossils so that was a treat. The Ark area has some brand name hotels now right on the Ark property. We didn't stay after, just drove through the country estates to Louisville. It was very cold outside and we didn't know what to expect. The bus was fine and the Ark was nice and toasty. Most of the food stands were closed and a lot of the zoo animals were not out because it was cold. (There are maybe only 10 to begin with so 4 of them missing is a lot). The playground looked fun for the kids. We skipped the Answer building and zip line. The whole thing was fine. No one asked about our faith. They made fun of themselves (flood of refill refillable souvenir cups). The gift shop was gigantic and had a little bit of everything. In my opinion it was a costly stop but an experience. It is grand and laid out well. You can go as fast or slow as you'd like. Parking was $15 and that was before you even bought a ticket. They laid it out so you can't see anything from the parking lot. Would I come here again? Not a chance! But am I glad I did? Sure, I came and I saw.

    Aaron J.

    A once-in-a-lifetime experience for believers and non-believers alike. The Ark itself is a modern marvel. One of the most interesting structures I've ever seen. The exhibits are interesting though there is an odd fascination with dinosaurs. Cool for kids but doesn't hold much biblical water. A lot of speculative theories intertwined in some stuff. Not necessarily a bad thing, just odd. There's quite a bit to see between the Ark and the zoo and other attractions. We had an amazing time and highly recommend adding this your bucket list. Some very powerful stuff here.

    Giant aardvark or anteater!! What a face!!
    Grace D.

    What a great place for kids and adults alike! There's a small zoo on site with very interesting animals, like a giant aardvark, and all sorts of side attractions like zip lining, carousel, arcades. But mainly, there's actually a real life size Noah's Ark right in the center! Best get there early as it fills up fast, kids under 10 are free! Parking is not included, but you do get a shuttle ride up to the Ark area. There is coffee on site, and some snacks, but also a buffet! We started early in the zoo and then went to the Ark. We had a full day planned, so took in the highlights in about 2.5 hours, but easily could spend a day here, or partner your ticket with the Creation Museum in Cincinnati proper for wholesome family entertainment, whether or not you are a true believer, there's something to see no matter what!

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    Ark Encounter Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Ark Encounter

    May i bring my own roller walker?

    Yes

    Is it air conditioned?

    Yes!

    How much time do people usually spend here?

    Hi Jason, We recommend planning at least 5-6 hours to tour the Ark Encounter. Here's a comprehensive answer:… Read more

    Anyone remember the 3D Portrait mini figure place in the Arc where you could have your portraits made and they sent you your sandstone figures by mail? I’m desperately looking to replace one of my children that was broken. The Arc wasn’t any help.

    We went there on March 21, 2025 looking for the 3D photo place but apparently it's no longer a feature.

    We are planning to visit the Ark September 5. We are 83 and 82. What is the charge and do we buy the tickets in advance or at the door?

    that depends. If you are going to the also to the Creation Museum then it's best to buy the combo tickets. Because they are even cheaper. Plus being a senior citizen, I too received a senior citizen discount. I was glad that we purchase them online… Read more

    Is all of the ark encounter wheel chair accessible?

    Yes! Absolutely! Based on our experience though, you need to be confident! Run people over if you have to. We got pushed to the side a lot.

    What months of the year do they operate? Open in Oct?

    They are open year round but they have summer and winter hours. You can look on the website or call to find out the hours for October. The outside part such as zip lines, might be seasonal.

    Discount tickets available anywhere(Groupon, Kroger, etc)?

    https://save.couponsatcheckout.net/arkencounter.com This link has several discounts for days of the… Read more

    What is the difference between Ark Encounter and the encounter museum?

    Do you mean the ark encounter vs. the creation museum? If so, the ark encounter is much bigger and gives basically all of the same information as the creation museum (and much more). If you are choosing between the two, definitely go to the ark… Read more

    Are scooters available for rent?

    Absolutely, get there early to ensure you get one $35 for the day, good quality equipment. They have light duty and heavy duty scooters $35 is heavy duty. Good equipment and excellent maintenance.

    Is there an elevator to the different floors of the ark?

    Yes, The whole attraction is very user-friendly.

    Is it handicap accessible?

    Hello- Yes, it is accessible.

    When is the best day/time to visit?

    Weekdays are less busy and of course off peak times of the year. I went during the day which I think is best to be able to see the size of the Ark! I only visited the Ark. Allow yourself 3+ hours or 2 days to experience everything.

    Can you see the ark from the road without having to pay to go inside? Don’t have time to go in it this trip just want to see the size from outside.

    Yes, you can see it from the road or parking lot.

    What is the average duration of visit?

    Our family spent 6 hours, which included lunch. Our kids, 10, 8 & 7 (boys) were captivated by every floor. Take your time, read, listen and enjoy. If you have a time constraint, postpone your visit.

    How much does it cost to get in to the Ark?

    depends- one day- $40 Adult… Read more

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    Review Highlights - Ark Encounter

    I went with my group to Williamstown Kentucky to see the Ark encounter which is a life-size replica of Noah's Ark.

    Mentioned in 141 reviews

    Read more highlights

    Mary Todd Lincoln House

    Mary Todd Lincoln House

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    If you are even remotely interested in American history, presidential families, or powerful women…read moreahead of their time, stop scrolling and just go. The Mary Todd Lincoln House is a beautifully preserved window into the early life of a complex First Lady and the turbulent times she lived through. We opted for the guided tour, and it was absolutely the right choice. Phillip was our guide, and he didn't just recite facts. He gave perspective. Thoughtful, objective, and deeply knowledgeable, he handled the complicated dynamics of a slave-owning border state with grace and clarity. He was also incredibly kind in his portrayal of Mary Todd Lincoln, helping us see her not as a caricature, but as a layered, resilient, and deeply human figure. Each room is meticulously curated. Not every item was original to the Todd or Lincoln families, but everything was period appropriate and helped tell the story. The artifacts weren't just on display. They became part of the narrative, which made it all the more engaging. What surprised me most was how much the visit made me reflect on grief ... her profound losses, her perseverance, and the emotional weight she carried as First Lady during the Civil War. It gave me a new respect for her. And even better? My wife, who is not a big history buff, was the one who suggested we go, and she loved it. That says a lot. The whole tour ran a little over an hour and was the perfect pace. Despite the unseasonably hot June day, the air conditioning kept us comfortable, and the staff were welcoming from start to finish. Bonus points for the gift shop, it's small, but full of genuinely cool and thoughtful items. Well worth the money. Perfect for history buffs, curious minds, and even the skeptics. Educational, immersive, and honest. This isn't just a house. It is a home full of stories. And thanks to Phillip, we walked out with a deeper understanding of the people and times that shaped a presidency and a nation.

    We wanted to prove to ourselves that we were capable of doing something besides bourbon in…read moreLexington LOL, so we stopped here for a historical fix and were glad we did. For $15 each we could wander through the rooms as long as we didn't touch anything or sit on anything. No guided tour in the morning but there was someone downstairs who cheerily answered our questions. There's a small gift shop. Small but very pretty garden. And everything is nicely air conditioned. Parking lot is small and tight, with overflow parking available next door.

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    Mary Todd Lincoln House
    Mary Todd Lincoln House
    Mary Todd Lincoln House

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    Ark Encounter - museums - Updated May 2026

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