Visit the Ark Encounter on National Tourism Day

May 7, 2019 is National Tourism Day. We invite you to celebrate this unique holiday with a trip to the Ark Encounter, the Creation Museum (our sister attraction), and the surrounding areas! No matter your interests, check out all you can do when you visit our life-size Noah’s Ark.

Ark Encounter

When you visit the Ark Encounter, you’ll get answers to questions about the global flood, Noah, the animals on the ark, and more! Be sure to visit the Ararat Ridge Zoo, located behind the life-size Noah’s Ark, grab a bite to eat at Emzara’s Buffet, and catch a presentation in our brand-new Answers Center, a 2,500-seat auditorium.

Creation Museum

At the Creation Museum, located 45 minutes north of the Ark, take a walk through the Seven C’s of History and immerse yourself in Genesis chapters 1–11. Enjoy a stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens and get up close to the animals at the Eden Zoo. And don’t forget to take advantage of the opportunity to participate in our free educational programs that will help you explore God’s creation in an exciting way while making great memories.

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

If you’re coming from the South, add a stop at the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park to your trip. Enjoy guided tours, including one through the Gap Cave, and over 80 miles of hiking trails, while taking in the incredible sights and wildlife around you. You won’t want to forget your camera to capture your experience!

Newport Aquarium

Get face-to-face with sharks, rays, fish, penguins, and more when you visit the nearby Newport Aquarium. You can also touch a shark, get an up-close encounter with some aquatic animals, and cross the unique shark bridge.

Kentucky Horse Park

Do you love horses? The Kentucky Horse Park is one of the world’s best equine competition facilities, and it’s just over a half hour south of the Ark Encounter in Lexington, Kentucky.

Image by Nordlicht8, via Wikimedia Commons.

National Museum of the United States Air Force

The National Museum of the United States Air Force is a free museum in Dayton, Ohio, featuring a massive collection of air force planes and memorabilia spread out over several airplane hangars. It’s the world’s oldest and largest military aviation museum, also only a little over an hour away from the Ark Encounter!

Image by Magnus Manske, via Wikimedia Commons.

Red River Gorge

Do you love spending time outdoors? Make a stop by Red River Gorge during your spring break vacation. Much of Red River Gorge is located in the Daniel Boone National Forest in central Kentucky. It’s a beautiful spot for camping, hiking, rock climbing, and more!

Image from Red River Gorge by Seicer at the English language Wikipedia, via Wikimedia Commons.

Other Nearby Attractions

Looking for more places to visit during your stay? Discover other popular tourist attractions near the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum by navigating the map on our Nearby Attractions page. You might be surprised at what you find on the route from the airport, to your hotel, and to the Ark!

Start making your plans to visit the Ark Encounter to celebrate National Tourism Day today! Share your favorite photos of your visit with us Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter using #arkencounter!