Jul 25, 2025
Our visit to the Ark Encounter in Williamstown, Kentucky, was unlike any other trip we’ve taken. This life-sized replica of Noah’s Ark combines biblical history, hands-on exhibits, and fun family extras like a huge playground and a petting zoo with camel rides. Whether you’re visiting for faith-based learning or just looking for something unique and family-friendly, the Ark has something for everyone.
What to Expect When You Arrive at the Ark Encounter
You park in a parking lot, then take a few minute bus ride to the top of a big hill. Once you get off, you can go into the gift shop or go through the rainbow walkway and instantly be in awe of the main attraction, the full-size Ark, built to biblical dimensions. It truly takes your breath away.
When you're ready to go inside the ark, you walk up underneath it and wait in line to be let inside. You stop for a quick photo op, then you are free to explore the 3 floors at your own pace. It’s massive and detailed. As you walk through, you’ll find a mix of interactive exhibits, themed displays, and stories that help you imagine what life aboard might have been like.
The Ark is full of realistic animals in the cages that held them as well as displays about food, water and care for the animals and people aboard the ark. It has realistic living quarters where Noah and his family would have stayed. There are videos and readings about the biblical flood and quiet areas for reflection and deeper learning.
Tip: You could easily spend 3+ hours inside the ark. There’s a lot to take in and a lot of reading you could do. If you visit with younger kids, you will go through it much quicker. When we went through the Ark, our kids were more interested in seeing everything than stopping and reading (since they weren't all at reading age yet). We still spent over and hour and a half inside the ark and that was us going through fairly quickly.
Top Things to Do at the Ark Encounter with Kids
Realistic animal models and living quarters
There are many unique animals that were alive during that time, that have since gone extinct that was neat for the kids to see. It was also fun to see the living quarters on how each "room" was set up based on the jobs that Noah & his sons had.
Massive Outdoor Playground at the Ark Encounter
Just outside the Ark is a massive playground designed for kids of all ages. After a morning of walking and learning, this was the perfect place to burn off energy. Our kids loved the maze, slides, climbing areas, unique swing & more.
Tip: If you have younger kids, build in extra time here because they’ll never want to leave!
Animal Encounters at Ararat Ridge Zoo
The zoo is located just outside the Ark and was a great surprise! It’s small but full of friendly animals and up-close encounters. They had some more unique, not as common animals in their zoo, and also the most active sloth we had ever seen!
Camel Rides: What Families Should Know
This was a favorite by our kids! Our younger two kiddos (ages 3 & 4) were able to ride on one camel together, while our 7 year old was able to ride alone. The kids had to wear helmets and sit in a contained area on top of the camel. It was guided by a zoo worker and they did a slow loop around the camel yard.
Tickets are $10/rider. Children must be at least 36" tall to ride. Camel rides are offered on select days throughout the year, weather permitting. Make sure to check the schedule before you arrive.
You can find more information on camel rides and camel encounters here: https://arkencounter.com/events/animals/rides/
Essential Tips for Visiting the Ark Encounter with Young Children
• Wear comfy shoes. There’s a lot of walking.
• Strollers are welcome and easy to navigate.
• Bring sunscreen and hats for the outdoor parts.
• There are restaurants and snack stands on-site.
• There is a carousel with unique ark animals that is free.
• There is VR experience for an additional cost all about how Noah built the Ark.
• Expect to spend a good amount of the day here. We spent around 5 hours here but you could easily spend longer.
Is the Ark Encounter Worth It for Families? Our Thoughts
Would we go again? Definitely. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that combines history, faith, learning, and play. Our kids loved both the educational side and the interactive fun, and we appreciated how well thought-out the whole attraction was for families. It is something we will always remember. We are so grateful to have had a Bible story brought to life for us.
Have questions about planning your visit to the Ark Encounter with kids? Drop them in the comments – I'd love to help!