Ark Encounter Tactile Experience Request

We are so pleased to offer Tactile Experiences to our guests who have low vision, are blind, or are on the Autism Spectrum. The immediate family or assistant of the individual requesting this experience is welcome to attend. Please indicate the number in your party below.

Two Tactile Experiences are available at the Ark Encounter. The first is offered by our Guest Service staff at 2:00 p.m., and the second by our Ararat Ridge Zoo staff at 2:30 p.m. Please note the Ararat Ridge Zoo Tactile Experience is not available on Sundays.

1. The Ark Encounter Tactile Experience gives guests a hands-on experience with a variety of items representing various exhibits throughout the Ark. The Guest Service staff will give detailed descriptions of each item as well as answer commonly asked questions related to the Ark and the flood of Noah’s day.
2. The Ararat Ridge Zoo’s Tactile Experience allows guests to “tour” the zoo’s animal collection. The shapes, textures, sounds, and smells of the animals come to life with fur, feathers, scales, bones, eggs, and other biofacts. Guests can even meet some of the zoo’s live ambassador animals.

The Ark Encounter Tactile Experience will be closed January and February 2023, as our team uses this time to enhance the Tactile Experience. The Ararat Ridge Zoo Tactile Experience will remain open during this time.

Please submit your request below at least two weeks before your visit to ensure the availability of these unique, complimentary experiences!