The Noah’s Ark Encounter is a huge attraction in Williamstown, Kentucky that features a full-sized ark based on the dimensions given in the Bible. This massive 510-foot-long biblical vessel is the largest timber frame structure in the world and explores the account of Noah’s Ark from the book of Genesis.
With three decks filled with exhibits and activities, it’s easy to spend a good portion of the day exploring the Ark Encounter. But exactly how long does it take to fully tour this biblical attraction? There are a few factors to consider when estimating the time needed to experience everything the Ark Encounter has to offer.
The Size of the Ark Encounter
The Ark Encounter is absolutely massive, which means it takes quite a bit of time just to walk through the entire ark structure. Here are some key details about the sheer size of the Ark Encounter:
– It is 510 feet long, 85 feet wide, and 51 feet high.
– It contains three decks, with a total floor space of approximately 121,000 square feet.
– The ark structure itself contains approximately 3.3 million board feet of timber.
– It is the largest timber frame structure in the world in terms of square footage.
With dimensions like those, it’s clear that visitors will need to allot ample time just to wander through the three expansive decks of the ark and see all of its features. The size and scale of the ark itself is one factor that contributes to the total time needed to fully experience the attraction.
Number of Floors and Exhibits
In addition to the sheer size of the ark structure, the number of floors and diversity of exhibits also impacts the total tour time. Here’s an overview of what’s included in the Ark Encounter:
– There are 3 total floors or decks – the Lower, Middle, and Upper Decks.
– The Lower Deck contains extensive exhibits about the Flood, fossils, and biblical history.
– The Middle Deck contains detailed animal exhibits, including cages and life-size animal models.
– The Upper Deck focuses on Noah’s family and living quarters with lots of interactive activities.
– In total there are approximately 130 exhibit bays and over 100 animal kinds represented.
With hundreds of detailed exhibits spread across three expansive floors, visitors could easily spend hours just looking at the displays and dioramas. The variety and quantity of exhibits directly contributes to the total time required to see everything.
Shows and Attractions
In addition to the three-deck ark structure and exhibits, there are several other shows and attractions at the Ark Encounter. These include:
– The Christ-centered “Facing the Altar” musical drama performed on the 5,000-seat Ark Encounter Theater.
– The Noah Interview 10-minute film showcasing an interview with Noah at the end of his life.
– Emzara’s Kitchen, offering themed snacks and drinks.
– The expansive and upscale Emzara’s Buffet restaurant with hand-crafted meals.
– Stargazer’s Planetarium for learning about God’s amazing cosmos.
– Ararat Ridge Zoo with exotic animals like emus, camels, and sloths.
Touring these additional shows and attractions can easily add an hour or more to a visit. Factoring in these supplementary entertainment offerings is key for estimating total tour time.
Average Tour Times
Now that we’ve looked at the key details and factors that contribute to the total tour time, what is the typical time needed to fully experience the Ark Encounter? Here are the average times:
At a Minimum: 3 Hours
If you move quickly and only briefly stop at each exhibit, it is possible to do a highlights tour of the Ark Encounter in approximately 3 hours. This would include:
– Walking briskly through the three decks
– Quickly glancing at key exhibits on each floor
– Little time spent at animal exhibits or interactive features
This hurried highlights tour hits the key attractions but misses out on details or immersive experiences. It gives you a flavor of what the Ark has to offer without deeply diving into any one part.
More Realistically: 5-7 Hours
For most visitors who want to fully experience the key exhibits and attractions, plan on spending 5-7 hours at the Ark Encounter. This allows time for:
– Leisurely touring all three decks of the ark
– Viewing the detailed animal cages and life-size models
– Interacting with activities and exhibits on the Upper Deck
– Seeing shows like the musical drama and planetarium
– Enjoying the Emzara’s Kitchen and Emzara’s Buffet
– Shopping in the extensive retail store
With this time frame, visitors can immerse themselves in different parts of the ark at a reasonable pace. It allows you to see the highlights and also delve into key exhibits that interest you most.
For a Truly Extensive Visit: 8+ Hours
To really dig into all the exhibits, shows, and activities at a relaxed place, plan for a full 8 or more hours at the Ark Encounter. This extended time frame allows for:
– Reading all exhibit signage in detail
– Interacting with all activities and features in each exhibit bay
– Asking questions of staff members in exhibit areas
– Watching every show and performance
– Enjoying a leisurely meal at Emzara’s Buffet
– Taking the Zip Line and doing the Ropes Course
– Visiting every animal at Ararat Ridge Zoo
– Shopping without time constraints
With 8+ hours, you can fully immerse yourself in this world-class biblical attraction and leave no stone unturned. You’ll get your money’s worth and have time to revisit favorite exhibits a second time.
Factors That Impact Time Needed
While 5-7 hours is average, the exact time you’ll need can vary based on several factors:
Time of Year and Crowds
The Ark Encounter is most crowded during peak summer months and holidays. The biggest factor impacting tour time is how long you’ll wait in lines. These line wait times can vary:
Time of Year | Expected Line Waits |
Spring and Fall Weekdays | 5-15 minutes |
Summer Weekdays | 15-25 minutes |
Spring Break or Holiday Weekdays | 25-35 minutes |
Summer, Holiday & Weekend Days | 35-45+ minutes |
As you can see above, waits of 30+ minutes in peak seasons can add hours to your time to tour. Choosing a non-peak time will allow you to tour efficiently and optimize your time.
Number of People in Your Group
Touring with a large group or family will understandably take longer. Trying to maneuver a big group through crowds in the ark will slow down your pace. Also, visiting exhibits with many people means taking more time for everyone to have a look. Optimal groups of 3-5 people will be able to tour most efficiently.
Dining Time
The on-site Emzara’s Kitchen and Emzara’s Buffet provide excellent dining options. But your choice to dine and the pacing of your meal will impact tour time. Quickly grabbing a snack could take 30 minutes, while having a relaxing buffet lunch could take 90+ minutes. Plan your dining time accordingly so you can tour at your desired pace.
Time at Additional Attractions
Don’t forget about nearby attractions like the Ararat Ridge Zoo and Zip Lines. Building in time for these extends your total experience. You don’t want to feel rushed at the end of your ark tour and have no time for these bonus activities.
Tips for Maximizing Your Time
Here are helpful tips for making the most of your Ark Encounter visit:
Arrive Early
Get to the Ark right at opening time – even better if you can do early check-in the day before. You’ll beat crowds and lines and can maximize your first few morning hours touring.
See Animal Exhibits First
The animal exhibits on the Middle Deck draw big crowds later in the day. Tour this deck first to have animals to yourself.
Use a Map
Pick up a map to orient yourself and plan the order you’ll visit each deck. This helps you be purposeful and strategic with your time.
Catch the Musical Early
Schedule the “Facing the Altar” show first to avoid long lines later in the day. Eat lunch during a matinee show.
Stay Until Closing
Take advantage of less crowds in the afternoon and evening before closing. You can revisit favorite spots.
Save Retail Shopping
The gift shop stays open an hour after the rest of the Ark closes. Shop at the end so you maximize sightseeing time.
Conclusion
The massive scale and extensive exhibits of the Ark Encounter mean you’ll need a full day to really experience everything this world-class biblical attraction has to offer. While a quick 3-hour highlights tour is possible, plan for a more immersive 5-7 hour visit to fully explore the ark. Using smart tour tips to minimize lines and maximize your time is key. With advanced planning, you’ll be able to make the most of your visit to this impressive life-sized Noah’s Ark.