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Ark Encounter Hours

Current Hours

Monday to Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Sunday: Closed

Hours vary on select ChristmasTime nights.

Parking lot gates open 30 minutes before the Ark Encounter opens.

See Seasonal Hours

November 29, 2024 – January 4, 2025*

Monday to Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday Closed

*Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, December 24–25, 2024.

Christmas Program Hours

Celebrate Christmas during our free holiday exclusive event on select days, ChristmasTime at the Ark.


January 5, 2025 – March 8, 2025

Wednesday to Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday to Tuesday Closed

March 9, 2025 – May 24, 2025

Monday to Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Sunday Closed

May 25, 2025 – September 6, 2025

Monday to Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Sunday 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

September 7, 2025 – November 26, 2025*

Monday to Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday Closed

*Closed Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 2025


All hours are Eastern Time. Operating hours are subject to change.

The Ark Encounter is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.

Gates for incoming traffic close 30 minutes prior to closing.

Emzara’s Buffet

To see when Emzara’s Buffet and other food venues will be open during your visit, please visit the dining page for more information.

Zip Lines

Availability varies throughout the year. Find out more at arkencounterzip.com or call (859) 824-2901.