tours to noah's ark

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4 Days / 3 Nights

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Ark Encounter & Creation Museum, KY & OH

A group bus tour, this package includes:.

• 3 Nights Lodging
• 3 Breakfasts
• 3 Dinners, including a Riverboat Dinner Cruise and a German Dinner with Entertainment at the Hofbrauhaus
• Admission to the Ark Encounter
• Admission to the Creation Museum
• Guided Tour of Cincinnati
• Gift for All
• Luggage Handling
• All Taxes and Meal Gratuities
• 2 Comps Per Bus of 40 or more

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Ark Encounter & Creation Museum Trip

Experience the bible like never before on this ark encounter vacation package that brings you face to face with genesis, the life-size recreation of noah’s ark and the creation museum..

Why you’ll enjoy this trip:

Day 1 - arrive cincinnati, oh, day 2 - ohio amish country, day 3 - ohio amish country - creation museum, day 4 - ark encounter, day 5 - depart cincinnati, tour details, marriott cincinnati airport, transportation, trip highlights, upcoming departures, if you like this tour, you may also like..., myrtle beach & charleston, tour to canada's niagara falls, music cities usa tour featuring memphis, nashville & the biltmore.

“We had an amazing time! Loved the trip. It was relaxing knowing that all the details were taken care of. My husband drives professionally so to take a trip where he could relax was awesome!! I would like to do it again!! Thank you!”

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Rt. Motorcoach Transportation

Sit Back in Comfort and enjoy the ride on our safe, Luxury Motorcoaches which offer reclining seats, Restrooms, and Windows offering panoramic views.  Our Drivers are the safest drivers in the Industry and adhere to our tough standards of excellence.  Enjoy peace of mind knowing that we will get you there safely.  

2 Nights Deluxe Accommodations

Enjoy clean, comfortable accommodations right in the heart of all the action!   We offer Spacious rooms, Friendly staff, and outstanding Customer service.  We can’t wait to welcome you to the Ark Encounter & Creation Museum 

2 Great Breakfasts

Enjoy a continental breakfast which typically includes items such as bagels, toast, and condiments, pastries, fruit, juice, cereals, beverages, warm and cold selections, and possibly eggs and meat.  Of course, each hotel offers different selections.

2 Great Dinners

Enjoy Great dinners at the most popular restaurants in the Area.  You will enjoy some great Choices at each restaurant and have a chance to enjoy the Local Flair.  Your group will enjoy dinner one night right inside the ARK!

Full Days Admission to the Ark Encounter

Ark Encounter features a full-size Noah’s Ark, built according to the dimensions given in the Bible. Spanning 510 feet long, 85 feet wide, and 51 feet high, this modern engineering marvel amazes visitors young and old. Ark Encounter is situated in beautiful Grant County in Williamstown, Kentucky, halfway between Cincinnati and Lexington .   Ark Encounter is three exhibits in one—the massive Ark structure itself, the incredible craftsmanship, and the beautifully fabricated teaching exhibits. The combination of all three will amaze and inspire you to think differently about the biblical account of Noah’s Ark.

Full Days Admission to the Creation Museum

The history of the Bible vividly comes to life at the world-class Creation Museum. On your walk through biblical history, you’ll encounter a realistic Garden of Eden, animatronic Noah, Flood dioramas, stunning video displays, and much more. Prepare to believe!

Explore the idyllic Garden of Eden alongside Adam and Eve. You’ll see Adam naming the animals, the creation of Eve, the tree of life, and the serpent cunningly coiled in the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.

During the year of the Flood, the ocean waters picked up plants and animals on the land and buried them in sequences of mud and sand layers where they became fossils. The Flood left behind layer upon layer of rocks and fossils in the present, spread right across continents. 

Admission to the Air Force Museum

Welcome to the official website of the National Museum of the United States Air Force -- the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world -- located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, near Dayton, Ohio. This site is provided as a public service by the National Museum of the United States Air Force, Public Affairs Division.

The National Museum of the United States Air Force collects, researches, conserves, interprets and presents the Air Force's history, heritage and traditions, as well as today's mission to fly, fight and win ... in Air, Space and Cyberspace to a global audience through engaging exhibits, educational outreach, special programs, and the stewardship of the national historic collection. 

All Taxes and Meal Gratuities

Rest assured that Meal Gratuities and all taxes are included in every Senior Excursions Tour.  We have done all the work to make sure that you are not hassled with extra charges while you are on vacation.

2 Complimentary Trips

On Every Senior Excursions tour, the Group leader is rewarded to 2 free trips for every 40 Paying passengers. This is our way of showing how much we appreciate the hard work that group leaders do.  

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Ark Encounter & Creation Museum

Bring the Bible to life!

Ark Encounter features a full-size Noah’s Ark, built according to the dimensions given in the Bible. Spanning 510 feet long, 85 feet wide, and 51 feet high, this modern engineering marvel amazes visitors young and old. Ark Encounter is situated in beautiful Grant County in Williamstown, Kentucky, halfway between Cincinnati and Lexington Bible history comes to life at the Creation Museum! This family-friendly attraction near Cincinnati explores creation science with stunning exhibits, dinosaur bones, fossils, botanical gardens, a planetarium, zoo, zip line course, and more.

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Creation Museum & Ark Encounter

This 4-day tour to Northern Kentucky features both the Creation Museum and the Ark Encounter allowing you to experience the pages of the Bible brought to life!

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Ark Encounter

Creation Museum

3 Meals Included

Motorcoach Transportation

Hotel Accommodations

Requires Extended Amounts of Walking

Today we travel to Grove City, OH for our overnight lodging at the Drury Inn & Suites. Dinner is on your own. You can enjoy the free Kickback dinner at the hotel at 5:30 PM or you can venture out to one of the restaurants nearby.

After breakfast at the hotel, we will travel to the Ark Encounter, a one-of-a-kind historically themed attraction. In an entertaining, educational, and immersive way, it presents a number of historical events centered on a full-sized, all-wood ark, which is the largest timber frame structure in the USA. Dozens of exhibits within the ark will bring to life the biblical account of Noah's Ark. Enjoy the day learning how and why Noah built the ark from Noah himself, see what the animals in Noah's time looked like, and visit with modern day animals at the petting zoo. You've probably seen pictures of Noah's Ark in children's books, complete with giraffe heads sticking out of the top. The real Noah's Ark, the one described in the Bible, was huge. It was amazingly seaworthy - a ship that kept the occupants safe during a year-long worldwide flood. Prepare to be astonished as you explore the life-sized reconstruction of Noah's Ark! Lunch will be on your own while at the Ark Encounter at Emzara's Kitchen or one of the other available on-site eateries. After our visit, we will depart for Dry Ridge, KY, for our overnight accommodations. Dinner is on your own this evening.

Following breakfast, we will travel to the Creation Museum. This huge state-of-the-art facility brings the pages of the Bible to life, casting its characters and animals in dynamic form and in familiar settings. You can also take in a theatre presentation with special effects which takes you on a fantastic quest to find the real purpose and meaning of life. Lunch is on your own and available at Noah's Cafe. You can visit the Petting Zoo, Botanical Gardens, and Bookstore. There is so much to do at the Creation Museum! Our lodging for this evening will be at the Drury Inn & Suites in Grove City, OH. Dinner is on your own. You can enjoy the free Kickback dinner at the hotel at 5:30 PM or you can venture out to one of the restaurants nearby.

This morning we will check-out and depart for home. With stops for rest and lunch, arrival home is scheduled for later this evening.

Please note

Our intention is to run each tour as originally planned and published. However, if deemed necessary to do so, Perkiomen Tours reserves the right to make changes to tour components, schedules or itineraries without prior notification. Tips for Perkiomen motorcoach drivers and tour escorts are not included in the price of this tour. We feel that these gratuities should be extended on an individual basis and dictated by the level of service provided. Motorcoach seating is assigned at the time of reservation but cannot be guaranteed. Although we do our best to keep each traveler in the seat assigned at the time of reservation, there are times that it is necessary to move seat locations. Please be sure to verify your final seat number(s) with your driver at the time of boarding. Historically, daily seat rotation was practiced on most multi-day tours. We have suspended this practice for a period of time. Seat rotation will be explained by your driver or tour escort if reinstated. Perkiomen Tours recommends that you consider purchasing Travel Insurance for your tour. Travel Insurance is purchased directly by you from a third-party of your choice. One option is Travel Safe Insurance. You can purchase insurance directly from Travel Safe through our website. www.perkiomentours.com. To fully participate in this tour may require extended amounts of walking. There may be steps, inclines, uneven surfaces or extended periods of standing. Participants with physical limitation should take this into consideration.

CB=Continental Breakfast, B=Full Breakfast

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Tour Itinerary

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1 WEST VIRGINIA / KENTUCKY / CREATION MUSEUM

Today we travel through West Virginia on our way to Kentucky. We will spend the next three nights in Florence, Kentucky

2 CREATION MUSEUM

This morning we will spend the day enjoying all the exhibits and attractions the Creation Museum has to offer. Along with your self-guided tour of the museum you can also enjoy the Stargazers Planetarium, Petting Zoo, Botanical Gardens and Zipline Tours. This day is sure to be filled with educational fun.

3 ARK ENCOUNTER

Prepare to be blown away as you explore the life-sized reconstruction of Noah’s Ark. Built according to the dimensions given in the Bible, Ark Encounter is a jaw-dropping structure you’ll want to see. The encounter presents a number of Historical Events centered on Noah’s Ark as recorded in the Bible. As the largest timber-frame structure in the world, the 510 foot-long, over 7 stories tall, full-size Ark is designed to be historically authentic.

4 HOMEWARD BOUND

We make our way home today traveling through West Virginia remembering all our fun and adventure at the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter.

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The Ark Encounter & Creation Museum Tour

April 1 - April 5, 2024

Move 2 by 2 through the Ark Encounter, venture through biblical history at the Creation Museum. This trip is full of history!

The Concept

These cross country trips are designed so that you can see and do a lot of things in a relatively short time. We use custom built full size touring coaches which are designed to accommodate 21 passengers very comfortably with a lot of special amenities. Some of these amenities include card tables for the avid players, a kitchen, Wi-Fi, 110 volt outlets, and a couch in the back. Just being able to get up and walk around or lie down and take a nap is a great advantage. We also prepare hot lunches on board and carry our own tables and chairs so we can have picnics at some of the most beautiful places in America. The idea is to create a “family” atmosphere which is easy to do with so few people on each tour. These are not ordinary bus trips.

On all the trips, except those with special exclusions, we have vans pick up passengers within 130 travel miles of Rolla and then meet up with the motorcoach to head out toward the destination (see next section for more details). Each day we will typically see or do one thing in the morning and then another in the afternoon. Since there is so much to see and do, we usually depart by 8:00 am and arrive at our destination city around 6:00 pm that evening. Dinner is on your own; however, we will drive to a neighborhood restaurant if there’s not one very near the hotel. On the last day, we arrive back in Missouri in the early afternoon. If we picked you up, we will take you back home, and everyone else will go to Rolla to get their car.

The price of each trip includes the motorcoach, lodging, hotel breakfasts, lunches and the cost of all venues shown. It also includes the shuttle to and from your home if you live within 130 travel miles from Rolla (if there are several people at the same location, this 130 mile criteria will be extended). If you live outside the 130 miles and you drive to Rolla, everyone in the car will receive a $100 discount. If you live inside 130 miles and choose to drive to Rolla, you will receive a $50 discount.

The price is based on 2 persons per room. If 4 people share a room, the cost will be reduced by $30 per night each person. If you want a single room, the additional cost is $70 per night. To reserve a seat, you must send a $200 deposit per person. The remainder is due 45 days prior to the trip. The price does not include gratuity for the driver and hostess; however, you can include this with your final payment if you like.

Cancellation Policy

If you cancel more than 45 days prior to the beginning of the trip, you will receive back all but a $50 per person processing fee and any credit card fees that may apply. If you cancel between 45 and 15 days prior, you will receive a 50% refund. If we are able to fill the spot you vacated, you will receive back all of your money except credit card and processing fees. If you have to cancel less than 15 days prior or have to leave during the trip, you will receive a refund of any hotel costs and venues we are able to cancel. If you want a cancellation waiver to cover the potential loss if you have to cancel inside of 45 days, the cost is $100 per person (or $75 for the 5/6 day tours). Our cancellation waiver provides no coverage however, once the trip begins.

**Itineraries and arranged sightseeing are subject to change at any time due to circumstances beyond our control. Every effort will be made to operate tours as planned, but alterations may occur after the itinerary has been published.**

Tour Price: $1450

Tour Length: 5 Days

George Rogers Clark National Historical Park

Ark Encounter

Creation Museum

Unique Horse Farm

Conrad-Caldwell House

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Ark Encounter

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Ark Encounter - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Mon - Sat 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
• (0.15 mi) Hampton Inn and Suites Williamstown Ark Encounter
• (0.24 mi) Sunrise Inn Williamstown
• (0.33 mi) Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Williamstown
• (0.46 mi) See why everyone loves it here! 1.5 miles to Ark.
• (0.49 mi) Ezekiels Getaway Side 1 - near Ark Encounter with gameroom
• (0.33 mi) El Jalisco Mexican Restaurant
• (0.81 mi) Emzara's Kitchen
• (4.07 mi) Beans
• (2.24 mi) Edwardo's Pizza & Subs LLC
• (4.09 mi) LaRosa's Pizza Dry Ridge
• (0.03 mi) Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures
• (1.53 mi) Stage Right Theatre Company
• (1.21 mi) Patriots Landing Kentucky
• (0.88 mi) Frank Webb Memorial Park
• (4.19 mi) Brad Brown Comedy Magic Show

How Did Noah Build the Ark?

The Ark would have been designed for strength, comfort, and stability. Generations before Noah we read in the Bible that people were working with bronze and iron. We don’t know what kind of technology Noah had available. Noah could have used metal, machinery, planking, and wooden nails in addition to the pitch and gopher wood materials we read about in the Bible.

God Shuts the Door

God’s Word doesn’t tell us exactly where the door was on Noah’s Ark, but we do know that God was the one who shut it. After it was closed, the opportunity for anyone else to be saved from the Flood was over.

God Brings a Flood on the World

God shut the Ark’s door and unleashed the Flood upon the earth. The waters rose until they covered the highest mountains of the pre-Flood world. All of the people and land-dwelling, air-breathing animals that weren’t aboard Noah’s Ark died. That’s why we find so many fossils all over the world today.

Noah and His Family Offer Thanks to God

After the waters finally receded, Noah, his family, and the animals got off the Ark. God promised Noah that He will never again flood the whole world. Learn what changed for Noah and the generations to come at the Creation Museum.

Noah and the Animals

We read that God brought the land-dwelling and air-breathing animals to Noah in pairs, one of some and either seven or seven pairs of others . God would only have needed two representatives from each animal kind because they could have reproduced according to their kind after the Flood. And yes, God also brought dinosaurs on board as well as many other animal kinds that went extinct after the Flood.

Visit a Life-Size Noah’s Ark

Want to see more than just one percent of the Ark? You and your family can tour the life-size Noah’s Ark at the Ark Encounter, located in Northern Kentucky. Combo ticket packages allow you to visit both attractions for a lower price than if purchased separately!

Prepare to Believe

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• Museum Hours
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• Daily Events
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• Eden Animal Experience
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Winter Hours

Sunday: Noon – 6 PM Monday - Saturday: 9 AM - 6 PM

All hours are Eastern Time. Last admission 1 hour before closing.

Sister Attraction

Creation Museum Location

place 2800 Bullittsburg Church Rd.   Petersburg, KY 41080 ( see directions ) Seven miles west of the Cincinnati Airport

 2024 Answers in Genesis. All rights reserved. | Privacy Policy | Content Policy | Attraction Rules

Spend Your Vacation at the Ark Encounter

It was quite cold and snowy here in Northern Kentucky last month, as it was in much of the United States, but it’s beginning to warm up! As we anticipate the warmer weather, we also anticipate the return of our spring and summer guests to the Ark.

And you might even be starting to look ahead to spring break and summer vacations. We invite you to consider taking a trip to the Ark Encounter— where kids 10 and under enjoy free admission for 2021 with one paying adult who accompanies them.

So, what can you do when you visit the Ark Encounter for your spring break or summer vacation? Find out below!

Tour the Ark

The history of the Bible vividly comes to life at the world-class Ark Encounter. Scores of teaching exhibits about the flood, Noah, and the animals are designed to answer your questions about the biblical account of Noah’s ark.

Visit the Ararat Ridge Zoo

The Ararat Ridge Zoo at the Ark Encounter features a wide variety of remarkable creatures (that help teach the concept of created kinds), including kangaroos and a wallaby that you can walk with, ring-tailed lemurs, camels, exotic birds, a zorse and zonkey, and so much more.

Take in a Concert

Enjoy concerts from our resident artists at the Ark Encounter, Steve Hess & Southern Salvation, performing in the 2,500-seat Answers Center. And, happening this summer, sit back and enjoy over 80 different gospel artists during 40 Days and 40 Nights of Gospel Music , the world’s largest Christian music festival taking place August 2–September 10, 2021. Each day’s concerts are included with a general admission ticket, and an annual combo pass gets you access to all 40 days and 40 nights at no extra cost.

Learn During a Presentation

Our researchers and speakers present each day on various topics, such as creation and evolution, only one race, biblical kinds, and more. We also offer fascinating animal encounters—these are very popular with guests of all ages who love getting up close with some of our ambassador animals from Ararat Ridge Zoo!

Travel Back in Time

Get seated in your personal four-seat bay in the Truth Traveler time machine and journey back to the time of Noah in our immersive virtual reality experience ,* A Flood of Reality. Pod, the lovable robot, will be your guide as you witness the building of Noah’s ark, experience the flood, venture inside the ark with the animals, and more—including some exciting surprises along the way!

Enjoy a Thrilling Zipline Ride

Soar down thousands of feet of zip lines, reaching up to 50 mph and 15 stories in the air. Ten of these mega zip lines are 1,000 feet or longer! Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures offers packages for casual joy riders, thrill-seekers, and everyone in between.*

Play on the Playgrounds

Our cutting-edge playground has been specially designed for children of all abilities. This means it’s inclusive of children with various disabilities. We’re excited that all children will now have yet another activity to enjoy during their visit—and their parents and grandparents can join the fun too!

Ride a Camel

The Ararat Ridge Zoo also features camel rides.* Where else can you ride a camel with a life-size Noah’s Ark in the background?

Mine for Fossils

The mining sluice at the Ark Encounter provides fun for all ages and is located behind the Ark by the Ararat Ridge Zoo. Purchase your bag of dirt for $10 (including tax) and head over to the panning sluice. Each contains a large number of real fossils from around the world. You might even uncover amber, horn coral, petrified wood, or shark teeth.

Browse our Gifts Shop

The Ark Encounter also features a gift shop, including a large fair trade section offering handmade gifts from around the world that help support missions work. It’s a great way to build your creation apologetics library, find souvenirs and apparel, and more.

Savor Delicious Food

Relax with your friends and family on the scenic deck of Emzara’s Buffet, our two-story casual restaurant with a spectacular view of the Ark. We also have a variety of specialty outdoor dining options that are available seasonally in Noah’s Village at the Ark Encounter.

Snap a Selfie with New Cutouts

Coming soon will be cutouts of our mascots Grace and Junior, two members of the giraffe family that you may have seen on our television ads for the Ark Encounter. People will love getting their photo taken with these fun giraffes! Here’s a mock-up of what these will look like:

We will also be adding cutouts of Noah’s Family so you can pose as one of them in a photograph, with the Ark in the background.

Don't Miss Our Spectacular Sister Attraction, the Creation Museum

In addition to visiting our life-size Noah’s Ark, be sure to make plans to take a trip to our sister attraction, the Creation Museum , while you are in town. 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 Discover Programs that will help you explore God’s creation in an exciting way while making great memories.

Take in Local Attractions

When you plan your vacation to the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky area to enjoy the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum, you can extend your stay and enjoy some of the other local attractions in the Tri-state area, such as BB Riverboats on the Ohio River, the Newport Aquarium (Newport, Kentucky), the National Museum of the US Air Force (Dayton, Ohio), Kentucky Horse Park (Lexington, Kentucky), or the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (Cincinnati, Ohio), among many others.

Kentucky has many natural attractions as well. You can also enjoy God’s creation in incredible places like Red River Gorge (a favorite hiking spot of our astronomer Dr. Danny Faulkner), Mammoth Caves National Park (the world’s longest known cave system), or Cumberland Falls State Resort Park (one of few places where you can see a “moonbow,” a nighttime rainbow) within just three hours’ drive of our attractions.

Book Your Hotel on ArkEncounter.com

If you need a place to stay during your visit to the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum, you can now book your hotel right on ArkEncounter.com . Choose from a variety of vetted hotels conveniently located near our life-size Noah’s Ark and our sister attraction, the Creation Museum, and receive a special rate when you book through our site. Start planning your trip today!

*A separate ticket is required for these attractions. All photos from previous years.

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• Charter Boarding Passholders
• Helpful Tips & FAQ
• Attraction Rules
• Bring a Group

Places to Stay

• Partner Hotels
• Unique Stays

Plan Your Visit

• Family Dining
• Ararat Ridge Zoo
• Virtual Reality

About the Ark

• Ark Encounter Map
• Accessibility

Winter Hours

Sunday: Noon – 7 PM Monday - Saturday: 9 AM - 7 PM

All hours are Eastern Time. Last admission 1 hour before closing.

Sister Attraction

Ark Encounter Location

place 1 Ark Encounter Drive   Williamstown, KY 41097 ( see directions ) Just west of the intersection of KY-36 and I-75 (at exit 154).

 2024 Answers in Genesis. All rights reserved. | Privacy Policy | Content Policy | Attraction Rules

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• Departure Points

  “An Adventure of Biblical Proportions!”

** THE ARK ENCOUNTER:    A full-sized replica of Noah’s Ark, this magnificent structure is 510 ft. long and more than 50 ft. tall – and that’s before the “fin” is added (dimensions as in Genesis 6)!!  Built in large part by Amish craftsmen, this massive wooden structure is the largest wooden timber structure IN THE WORLD, and considered an architectural and engineering wonder containing 3 decks of world-class exhibits!  *(Fun fact:  NASA could lay 3 space shuttles, nose to tail, on the Ark’s roof alone!)  But seeing it from the outside is just the beginning… Inside, the Ark includes hundreds of fascinating displays, Noah’s study, living quarters, cages, storage vessels, recreations of how Noah and his family may have lived, animals… and even an animatronics version of Noah that will answer questions.  Learn about such things as “How long is a cubit?” and “Was Noah’s Ark really found on Mt. Ararat?… and also visit a petting zoo, view many excellent amphitheater shows and additional educational productions throughout.  ~ Absolutely stunning!!

** THE CREATION MUSEUM :  This 70,000 sq. ft. “walk thru history” museum is an alternative to the evolutionary natural history museums.  See how its interpretation of the Bible – “the history book of the universe” – provides an account of the beginning of all things.  As you enter the Time Tunnel, be transported back 6,000 years to the dawn of time.  Encounter a realistic Garden of Eden, flood dioramas, and a multitude of stunning video displays thru-out your journey.  Exploring this world-class museum, you’ll see fossils, holograms, a full-size Allosaurus skeleton, plus lovely botanical gardens.  Relax in the 4-D Special Effects Theater as you watch Genesis 1 come to life – really neat!  SO much to see & do here.  Privately funded with over 140 state-of-the-art exhibits, this journey proves how science confirms Biblical history, no surprise to us!

** PRIVATE DINNER CRUISE & GOSPEL MUSIC :  Enjoy a 2-hr. cruise on Ohio River aboard one of the Queen City Riverboats with yummy food and feet-tappin’ music!  Did you know Gospel Music means “good news”?!  Sing along to “Go Tell It On the Mountain”, “How Great Thou Art”, “I Believe” and so many other favorites.  (* This event requires 30 to run – if less than that, there will be a substitution ).

**ERNIE HAASE & SIGNATURE SOUND: This year during our time at the Ark, they’re holding the “World’s Largest Christian Music Festival” for 40 days and 40 nights – how appropriate, You’ll have opportunity to hear one of the most popular and beloved quartets in all of Southern Gospel music.  This Grammy-nominated and GMA Dove Award-winning quartet has traveled all over the world offering energy, excitement and encouragement, and it’s your turn to be inspired! *Note: The concert is optional -if you prefer to continue perusing the Ark’s Exhibits, you are free to make that choice!

**PATRIOTS LANDING:  A new addition this year, we are very excited to support this Veterans Complex and Training Center giving our wonderful Vets a chance at a real future.  Shop in the “Products with a Purpose” store, talk to the veterans and know that 100% of any purchases go back into the program!

. ~~ Please Note:  Both Museums Require Extensive Walking ~~ You can walk at your own pace,

 A TRULY GREAT TRIP!!  ‘Twould be hard to find a more meaningful, enlightening and inspirational 3 days

Just Don’t Wait Too Long To Call!

** 2 B, 2 D **

$598 per/person, double occupancy

* $578 p/p, triple or quad occupancy

* $748 single

Please note: The following are TLC's general polices and procedures that cover all of our tours, so some of these may or may not be applicable to this particular tour.

Age Requirements:

All ages are welcome to join a TLC Tour beginning with age 5 years old and up.   Because our goal is to provide a relaxing, enjoyable ride for all when on our coach, we must ask that adults plan appropriate, quiet entertainment for their younger ones in order to not disturb the others aboard.  There may be a reduction in cost for the younger children, but no guarantees, especially on Day Trips.

On all overnight tours, we use a daily seat rotation. The first day of a trip, you choose your seat when you board, and rotate from there. We feel this is fair to all. If the coach is not full, a less formal rotation may be used at the Escort’s discretion. Persons traveling single or with uneven amounts in their group may need to sit with other like-travelers. We cannot guarantee that small groups will be seated together. We welcome single travelers, but the single rate does not include two seats on the coach. * We cannot accept doctor’s notes regarding requests to sit in the front seat/s. Please consider boarding at the first pickup location if your seat location is of concern. It is also recommended to see your doctor for motion sickness medication, if this should apply.

Smoking/Drinking:

We make regular stops for restrooms and for the convenience of smokers; however, we have a NO SMOKING (or vaping) policy aboard all coaches. If someone violates the non-smoking policies of places we are staying or visiting while on tour, it is the sole responsibility of that person should there be any penalties and/or fines for not adhering to their rules and regulations. Consumption of alcoholic beverages is not permitted at any time on the coach.

Transportation:

All of our tours use beautiful modern, deluxe wide-body motorcoaches from Campbell Bus Lines . Campbell has received the highest possible rating with the Dept. of Transportation. The motorcoaches are equipped with air-conditioning, reclining seats, public address system, DVD player, outlets for each passenger, and emergency restrooms. Our intent is for all overnight tours to be professionally escorted. Upon occasion, in order to avoid canceling a trip with a low passenger count, our Driver may serve both positions of Driver and Escort, and all are professionally trained to do so. ~ Also, on air trips with low passenger counts, we will not be able to provide an Escort from our company. However, once you arrive at your destination, a guide from our connecting company will be with you throughout the entire tour.

Lodging and Meals:

Your lodging is included on all overnight tours. All hotels are AAA rated. We never use second rate hotels, restaurants, or activities on any tour, to the best of our ability to make that determination. If you need two beds in your room, please state this when making your reservation. Generally, some meals are included on overnight trips (see individual tour inclusions); however, we cannot guarantee any special dietary requirements.

Border Crossings:

As of June 2009, a Passport or Passport Card is required for border crossings. Either of these travel documents may be obtained through your local courthouse. The Passport Card is limited but is sufficient for Canadian border crossings and is good for 10 years – it is also very easy to apply for. Your Driver and/or Escort will be asking to see one of these documents before boarding the coach for trips with this requirement. We cannot be responsible if you are unable to travel due to failure on your part to obtain the proper documentation. Please begin the process early enough to ensure that you will have it in time for your tour’s departure. Click here for for more information .

One suitcase per person is included in the price of your tour. You are also permitted a carry-on, which is your responsibility. Additional luggage may be transported at the cost of $10.00 per bag, per day. It is wise to travel light. Luggage tags are provided and required for hotel identification and are sent with the final letter and phone numbers of your hotels.

Medical Devices:  

Medical devices must be handled by you, the passenger.  They are either to be stored under your seat (not protruding out into the person’s space behind or in front of you), or if too large for that accommodation, they must be placed under the coach by you, and taken off at each place it’s needed by you.  It is not safe for a medical device to ride in an overhead compartment for multiple reasons, nor are our Drivers or hotel personnel allowed to handle it for safety and liability reasons.  If it needs to ride under the coach, please have it in a quality container (as small as possible) to assure it rides safely.

Taxes and Gratuities:

All taxes and gratuities for included meals and activities are included, unless otherwise mentioned by the Escort. Driver and Escort gratuities are not included in the price of your tour. The suggested rate for a “job well done” is a minimum of $4.00-$4.50 per person/ per day for the Tour Escort, and a minimum of $4.00-$4.50per person/per day for the Driver. We request that you express this on an individual basis and let the quality of service received be your guide.

All prices listed are per/person rates. On one day tours, full payment must be made with the reservation. For overnight tours, see “How To Make A Reservation”. Balance of an overnight tour is due 45 days prior to departure (unless otherwise stated/notified). Confirmation will be sent after we receive your deposit. Please call as soon as possible if you should decide not to go.

FYI :  About a week before your overnight trip departs, you will receive from our office a letter packet with updated itinerary, passenger list, departure and return times, luggage tags, hotel phone numbers, and other pertinent information.

1 – Our intent is to have all our tours accompanied by one of our professional Escorts –  However, occasionally a low passenger count may make it necessary to send that tour out as “Driver Only” in an effort to ensure that the trip you wanted to go on does not have to be cancelled.  Please be assured our Tour Drivers are first-class professionals, capable of handling any trip we offer from beginning to end.  You will be in great hands and have a wonderful time!

2- Please Note – We’re truly sorry if we’ve canceled a trip that you wanted to go on.  Sometimes excellent trips with super itineraries are canceled when people wait ‘til the last minute to put in their reservation.  OUR monies are usually due at least 45 days ahead on regular trips, and sometimes 90 on certain ones.  If we don’t have enough signed up at that time, we have no choice but to cancel it.  Then when you call later, it’s already too late… and disappointing for us all!  Please help us and CALL EARLY – Thank you so much.

3- The information about trips on this website (funwithtlc.com) is complete.  It contains the same information that a paper flyer has.  However, if you prefer a paper flyer you can call for Fully Detailed Flyers for Most Trips of 3 Days or More. We’ll gladly send extras for you to pass along to your friends!  We will also happily send a Tour Book to anyone you feel would enjoy receiving one.

Up to 45 days prior to departure date, a full refund will be made. *Air and cruise tours, and some longer tours, may be different—be sure to ask for details when making your reservation. Tours including tickets also generally have earlier non-refundable dates. There are no refunds for cancellations made within 45 days prior to your departure date. However, we will do our best to recover as much as we can, but cannot guarantee anything including prepaid reservations and other costs that are non-refundable to us. There will be a $25.00 per/person charge for this service. There will be no refund, for any reason, for a “no-show” on the day of the tour.

Please Note: Refunds will be made by the same method you paid us, e.g., if you paid by credit card, the refund will be put back on that credit card. No exceptions.

TLC Tours offers a “Refund Protection Plan” for overnight tours that is available at our office at a minimal cost. It needs to be purchased when you book your trip. This insures you a full refund in case of:

• A.) a death in your immediate family (requires a copy of death notice)
• B.) personal illness (requires a doctor’s written note confirming you were too ill to travel)
• C.) Exceptions would be made if an immediate family member’s serious illness necessitates you staying home but would still need confirmed by a doctor’s note. *Immediate family, in these situations, includes spouse, parents or children only.

Call our office for full details about TLC’s RPP. We encourage you to take advantage of the protection plan, or secure insurance on your own if you prefer “cancel for any reason” coverage. Our Refund Protection Plan is not available for Day Trips, nor are there any refunds for Day Trips, with a few exceptions.

Cancellations:

TLC Tours reserves the right to cancel any tour that has not reached a minimum number of reservations. We always avoid changes and cancellations, if at all possible, as we realize the inconvenience to you, our valued customer. We reserve the right to cancel or refuse service to anyone, in our sole discretion. Any person may be dismissed from a tour at any time by the Tour Escort or Driver should their conduct be problematic in any way. No refund will be made, nor will any further responsibility be assumed by TLC Tours or anyone in their employment.

Responsibility:

TLC Tours, LLC is insured. Campbell Bus Lines is registered and insured with the ICC. TLC Tours acts only as an agent. We are not responsible to any person for any loss of time or money due to a change or delay beyond our control. Nor are we responsible for non-performance by those we have contracted with. We reserve the right to change tour prices, inclusions, and itinerary, if so, dictated by circumstances beyond our control. We are not responsible for pricing, typographical, or other errors. Any claims against TLC Tours must be made, in writing within 30 days of the trip.

HOW TLC IS ADDRESSING COVID/VARIANTS FOR 2024

We are so thankful that much of our country has ‘opened up’ and we are back to being able to travel freely, for those who desire to get out & about again.  While rejoicing over such good news, there are still a few things we must remain aware of that are listed below.  We believe these things are a very small price to pay to be “On the Road Again’! ~ Thank you for your gracious understanding and kind cooperation as we wisely embark on wonderful memory-making journeys together this year!

A- There are a few parts of the country that are still enforcing a mask mandate in their particular area. Please tuck a mask in your pocket just in case we should arrive somewhere and find out unexpectedly that we are required to wear one for entrance.  We continue to pledge to be good neighbors and help these establishments stay open by cooperating with whatever they are required to ask of us, and to do it with a good, kind spirit.  If you’re not in agreement with this, please refrain from traveling with us at this time.

B- At this writing, all the places we plan to visit are open for business. However, as mentioned above, that can change by the time we arrive.  Should there be some place that is not able to take us, we will do our very best to substitute an activity or attraction of an equal quality.  We just have to “go with the flow” again this year somewhat – but trust me, every single place we plan to visit WANTS to be open for us and will be doing everything they can to do so.

C- We ask that you take your own temperature before leaving home on the morning of Day One, and if you show any fever at all, please stay home. If you have additional/other symptoms that suggest Covid-19 or a variant, we ask that you please stay home.  If you have been around someone with Covid-19/variant, or highly suspected Covid-19/variant, we ask that you please follow the CDC guidelines according to their timeline, and possibly stay home.  Any of these methods are somewhat dependent on the “honor system”.  We trust that our upstanding TLC customers will “do the right thing” and not put anyone else at risk for contracting Covid or a variant on a TLC tour.

D- Should someone come down with Covid during or after their tour, we assume no responsibility or liability. We cannot control every minute of everyone’s day, nor can we control how people handle themselves when off the coach. We have done our very best to secure accommodations and venues that state the highest sanitation protocols to the best of their ability. If on tour you should come down with Covid-19 or a variant, or strongly suspect it, you would be responsible to quarantine yourself and arrange for transportation home when appropriate. — By traveling with us, you are agreeing that TLC Tours, LLC will not be held responsible for contracting Covid-19 or a variant, nor liable for any expenses involved in any way.

E- If you do need to cancel at the last-minute because of having covid/variant, being exposed to covid/variant, or suspecting a possible case of covid/variant, our normal cancellation policies apply, just as they would to any other last-minute illness that prevents you from going on a tour. See General Information/Refunds in this book.  Without insurance, there is no refund except what we might be able to get back from individual vendors on your behalf.  We highly suggest taking out either our in-house Refund Protection Policy, or another more comprehensive insurance plan of your own choosing.

Overall, please lovingly respect the concerns of others if they differ from yours. 

Some may have health issues that cause them to be more cautions than you may feel is necessary for yourself.

– Here’s the best plan: “Do Unto Others as You Would Have Others Do Unto You!” –

ON THE COACH

( 1) Every Campbell coach is completely disinfected before they depart for a trip. You can be assured that the bus that arrives to pick you up has been thoroughly cleaned with an environmentally friendly solution that is EPA-approved, and not diluted or mixed at our facilities.  The solution is rated on the EPA K-List that supersedes the current EPA suggestion for elimination of Corona Virus and has no harmful properties.  It has received the Green Seal certification.  The solution is applied with electrostatic sprayers to increase coverage to eliminate all pathogens on hard surfaces.

(2) We have upgraded all air filters and increased the frequency that we change the air filters on the coach to reduce contamination.  Our motor coaches refresh the air on the coach every five minutes, and combined with the upgraded filters, will reduce stale used air in the coach.

 ( 3) We have UV lights in our HVAC system to eliminate any airborne pathogens.

( 4) Disinfecting wipes available for the Driver & Escort, and hand sanitizer on board for your use.

( 5)  Should the situation regarding pandemic conditions rise during the year, we are prepared to increase the level of our procedures accordingly.

Ohio Departure Points:

Our departure points are as follows:

• Akron:   Home Depot, 2811 S. Arlington St, Akron – just up north from the Walmart – park in the front corner behind Golden Corral
• Canton:  Target parking lot behind Panda Express, 5584 Dressler Rd. NW – near Belden Village (you park in the row of the buggy corral)

Alliance:   The back parking area of Lowe’s, 2595 W. State St. (turn into Lowes and drive straight back to the last row)

• Salem:   Burger King on E. State St. (rear parking area)
• Columbiana:   Our TLC Office at 44139 St. Rt. 14.

Other departure points may be established for groups of 10 or more if the itinerary and direction of travel permits. We reserve the right to change departures. Departures are arranged in the direction of travel, with last departure being the closest to the destination, for the convenience of all passengers.

Pennsylvania Departure Points;

*We may use smaller shuttle buses to make these pickups and will join the tour en route at a logical transfer point.

For Overnight Trips:

• Slippery Rock:   Campbell Bus Lines, 258 Grove City Rd
• Butler:   Ollie’s, 602 Moraine Pointe Plaza
• Grove City:  County Market Plaza, 49 Pine Grove Square
• Mercer:    Rodeway Inn, 835 Perry Hwy.

For TLC DAY TRIPS:

For day trips, we do not have any insurance or Refund Protection Plan available.  Payment must be made in full when booking a day trip, and if you cancel your reservation up to 45 days prior to the trip’s date, you will receive a full refund.  * Occasionally a day trip may have a different cancellation date other than 45 days out – it is good to inquire when making your reservation .  — If TLC should need to cancel the entire day trip, you will receive a refund.

For TLC OVERNIGHT MOTORCOACH TOURS:

For most overnight tours, a full refund will be made up to 45 days prior to departure date. However, some of our tours, especially the longer ones, may have a 60-day cancellation date.  The specific date will be listed on your confirmation which you will receive in the mail once you make your reservation. Tours including tickets may have earlier non-refundable dates – please inquire when making a reservation for a tour that includes tickets. There are no refunds for cancellations made within the 45 (or 60) days prior to your departure date. However, we will do our best to recover as much as we can, but cannot guarantee anything including prepaid reservations and other costs that are non-refundable to us. There will be a $25.00 per/person charge for this service. There will be no refund, for any reason, for a “no-show” on the day of the tour.

** Please Note: Refunds will be made by the same method you paid us; e.g., if you paid by credit card, the refund will be put back on that credit card. No exceptions.

TLC’s REFUND PROTECTION PLAN for Overnight Motorcoach Tours :

  TLC has an in-house “Refund Protection Plan” which we offer for overnight motorcoach tours through our office at a minimal cost .   It needs to be purchased when you book your trip . This insures you a full refund in case of:

• ) A death in your immediate family (requires a copy of death notice)
• ) Personal illness (requires a doctor’s written note confirming you were too ill to travel)
• ) Exceptions would be made if an immediate family member’s serious illness necessitates you staying home, but would still need confirmed by a doctor’s note.  *Immediate family, in these situations, includes spouse, parents or children only.

The RPP covers you up to the morning of departure; however, you must call your Escort (number will be provided) that morning before your pick-up time in order for the RPP to be valid.  She will need to call all the places the tour is going to change the passenger counts.  Failure to call the Escort that morning cancels your RPP coverage.

Feel free to call our office for full details about TLC’s RPP. We encourage you to take advantage of the protection plan, or secure more comprehensive insurance on your own, if desired.

TLC “FLY TRIPS”:

For any of our tours that involve flying, the connecting companies we use for our air tours offer their own insurance plans and instructions.  You will find that information listed on each tour’s page and/or flyer near the respective pricing and other pertinent details.  It is up to you, of course, whether or not you choose to take insurance out, but it is highly recommended.

PLEASE NOTE: Sometimes excellent trips with super itineraries are canceled when people wait ’til the last minute to put in their reservation. OUR monies are usually due at least 90 days ahead on “fly trips” and at least 45 days ahead on regular trips. If we don’t have enough signed up at that time, we have no choice but to cancel it. Then when you call later, it’s already too late… and disappointing for us all! Please help us and CALL EARLY – Thank you so much.

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all photos courtesy Ark Encounter

Tour the Life-Size Noah’s Ark at the Ark Encounter

Sponsored Content

Get ready to encounter the wonder! The Ark Encounter features a jaw-dropping, 510-foot-long reconstruction of Noah’s ark, built according to the biblical dimensions. Inside, guests tour three decks of world-class exhibits, including sculpted animal pairs, animatronic people, Noah’s family living quarters, and more. This life-size Ark is the largest timber-frame structure in the world and an architectural marvel. And in 2023, children age 10 and under receive free admission!

Outside the Ark, guests explore the gorgeous grounds and meet exotic animals such as sloths, a binturong (bearcat), lemurs, camels, and more at Ararat Ridge Zoo. Or they can “meet” the animal kinds journeying to the Ark with free rides for all ages on a custom indoor carousel.

The indoor carousel at the Ark Encounter

Throughout the day live presentations and concerts take place in the state-of-the-art, 2,500-seat Answers Center auditorium. Guests enjoy tapping their toes to resident artists TrueSong, learning from dynamic Answers in Genesis speakers, meeting ambassador animals during engaging zoo presentations, and so much more.

Delicious food and drinks can be found throughout the grounds, particularly at Emzara’s Kitchen, a 1,500-seat restaurant featuring a cafeteria-style buffet loaded with guest favorites such as fried chicken, roast beef, fresh salads, creamy mac and cheese, garlic potatoes, and mouth-watering desserts. Guests can also enjoy smoky meats, wraps, paninis, freshly made fudge, cookies, specialty coffees, and more.

For an additional ticket purchase, guests can ride or feed a camel or mine for fossils or gems in the Fossil Sluice. Guests can also travel back in time and experience the building of the ark, loading of the animals, and the rainbow after the flood at Truth Traveler, the Virtual Reality Experience. Special seats full of surprises and state-of-the-art VR headsets wow guests as they enter a spaceship for their epic journey.

The most adventurous can zip over the trees in the stunning valley beside the Ark with Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures as they soar down thousands of feet of zip lines and reach up to 50 mph and 15 stories in the air. Ten of these mega zip lines are 1,000 feet or longer! Make a leap of faith off the 80-foot free fall tower or climb the aerial adventure course. Tours may be booked in advance or upon arrival.

Zip line at Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures

Kids love the unique playground, designed with children of all abilities in mind. Towering slides, climbing surfaces, swings, a rainbow maze, a zip line, and more delight children of all ages.

The outdoor playground at the Ark Encounter

August 1­–September 9, 2023, the Ark Encounter will host 40 Days and 40 Nights of Gospel Music, the world’s largest Christian music festival. Award-winning gospel music artists will perform over 120 concerts, and all concerts are included free with general Ark admission.

The Ark Encounter is visited by thousands of guests every day and they leave raving reviews. It’s truly an experience like no other!

The Ark Encounter is fully wheelchair accessible (with wheelchair and scooter rentals available) and family-friendly. The Ark Encounter is located in Williamstown, KY, directly off I-75 exit 154. Learn more and get your tickets today at ArkEncounter.com .

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Interested in starting a group travel program and maybe even making money doing it? Our free PDF Travel Free and Bring Your Friends will teach you how.

Hours of Operation:

Tuesday – Saturday 12:00pm – 3:00pm

770-957-0888 | Directions

Cost: $5 per person, 2 years and younger are free

Educational Tours / Field Trips

Noah’s Ark would love for you to book your next field trip. Experience a firsthand look at Tigers, Bears, Primates and more! As you guide your students through the Sanctuary, let our wild animals and feathered friends spark and maintain the kids’ interest in the environment.

To provide a beautiful venue for educational field trips, school rates for self guided tour is $5 per person and must be scheduled ahead and payment is required day of visit. Guided Field Trip Tour cost is $7 per person.

Who is eligible: Public and Private Schools, Home Schools, and Church Schools.

Please fill out the form below to schedule your group educational tour today! You will receive an email confirmation within 24-72 hours.

Schedule an Educational Tour

Please read below for the restrictions and guidelines for a group tour.

Restrictions and Guidelines

• We request 1 adult chaperone for every 10 children.
• Animal Habitat hours are 12:00am – 3:00pm Tuesday – Saturday, but if you need to get in earlier please let us know only Tuesday – Friday.
• The playground is available from 9:00am – 3:00pm with teacher supervision and when it’s not muddy.
• The tours will be canceled in the event of bad weather or flooding. One of our Employees will contact you if this is the case, but it is highly recommended to check the weather in advance of your tour.
• The picnic area is available for groups to eat lunch. Tables are first come, first serve.
• Please stress to the children that the habitats they are visiting are the animal’s home.
• The cost is $5 per person for Self Guided and $7 per person for a guided tour.
• If you would like to also bring donations, please visit some items from one of our wishlists .

Contact Person Name

Number of People in Group:

Number of Classes:

Preferred Date

Message - Including Any Special Needs

Gift Shop / Picnic / Playground: Tuesday – Saturday 9:00am – 3:00pm

Habitat Hours:

Tues – Sat 12:00pm – 3:00pm

Operation is always weather permitting

Please call (770-957-0888) to confirm we are open

Tax ID #58-1909303

• Email

712 L G Griffin Rd. Locust Grove, GA 30248 (770) 957-0888

[email protected]

© 2024 – Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary Another Truevine website

Call: 1-800-488-2114

ARK ENCOUNTER | CREATION MUSEUM

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Past Factory

[Photos] Noah's Ark Remains Might Finally Have Been Found

Posted: May 6, 2024 | Last updated: May 6, 2024

The biblical story of Noah's Ark tells the tale of God's decision to return Earth to its pre-creation state by flooding it completely with rain. However, God spared a man named Noah, instructing him to build an ark so that he, his family, and one pair of each animal might survive.

While some believe that the story of Noah's Ark is nothing more than a myth and a warning about God's wrath, one team set out to find out if the story might be based in fact and whether the ark could have actually existed. Read on to see what they discovered and learn more about the history behind the ark.

Even Some Scientists Believe It's More Than Just A Story

Like many biblical stories, the tale of Noah's Ark was believed by many to be historical fact until the end of the 1700s.

The creation story told in the Bible has been mostly dismissed as a factual explanation for how the Earth came into existence. Despite this, some skeptical scientists have come to believe that Noah's Ark may not have been totally made up, but that the ark may have actually existed in one form or another.

The Legend Of Mount Ararat

According to the biblical account of the flood, after the rainfall ceased and the water began receding, Noah supposedly landed his ark at the "mountains of Ararat," sending out a raven and a dove to see if the water had gone down.

Once he was sure, Noah opened the doors of the ark and released the animals inside to live again on the new world. Knowing the location of Mount Ararat, an expedition team set out in 2009 to see if there were any archaeological traces.

Mount Ararat Is An Honored Location

Mount Ararat is one of the highest peaks in Turkey and is located in the east, near its border with Iran and Armenia. The mountain is considered to a sacred location, and it's part of the Turkish national symbol, as well as being depicted on the coat of arms of Armenia.

Its peak lies at 16,854 feet, with the top being covered in snow year-round. The mountain's first recorded exploration took place as early as 1829.

Connection To Marco Polo

The famed explorer Marco Polo claimed in his book, The Adventures of Marco Polo, that he explored the "mythical" peak of Ararat. However, it wasn't until the 19th century when modern explorers began performing their own research.

In 1829, Dr. Friedrich Parrot climbed the mountain, further explaining that due to its sacredness to the Armenians, "no human being is allowed to approach it." However, 50 years later, explorer James Bryce made a discovery that changed everything.

James Bryce Attempted To Summit The Mountain

James Bryce was not only an explorer but also an Oxford Civil Law professor, historian, statesman, and diplomat. He climbed the mountain in 1876, looking for physical proof behind the biblical story of Noah's Ark.

Bryce may not have reached the peak of the mountain, but he did make it above the tree line where he could see the snow slopes. It was there that he made an unexpected discovery that gave some proof to the original story.

He Found A Wooden Beam

Although Bryce was hopeful that he'd find something related to the ark, he wasn't necessarily confident that he would discover anything.

However, he was at a loss for words when he found what appeared to be an ancient beam on the slopes of the snowy mountain. This could have been part of the Ark, but unfortunately, it was too large to transport it down the mountain. He returned to England, with news of his discovery turning into a research frenzy.

A Convincing Photograph

While it may have been exciting that James Bryce found the wooden beam on the mountain, this was far from enough evidence to convince experts that it was part of Noah's Ark. Furthermore, other explorers have claimed to have found more proof, or even the whole boat, but there was still no evidence available.

In 1960, a photo of an area 18 miles of the peak was taken by a man named Ron Wyatt. The photo showed something that looked similar to a boat, and another expedition was on the way.

Close Similarities

The story of Noah's Ark claims that Noah rested the large craft in the mountains of Ararat. Yet, there isn't just one single peak of Ararat, but a range of mountaintops instead. On top of that, some biblical scholars argue that Ararat was not just the name of the mountain, but the entire region.

At the Durupinar site in eastern Turkey, a large structure can be found 18 miles south of the modern Ararat. What's even more interesting is that it looks as though it could be an ark. Ron Wyatt set out to prove that it was.

Taking A Closer Look

David Fasold, a former United States Merchant Marine Officer and salvage expert, joined Wyatt in 1985. They were also joined by geophysicist John Baumgardner. Fasold was convinced that the site was the location of the ark and that they would be able to find it using something called a "frequency generator."

The device's scan showed that the formation in the earth was around 538 feet, which was similar to the estimated measurements of the biblical ark, which was estimated around 515 feet using ancient Egyptian cubits.

They Discovered What Could Be Anchor Stones

As Fasold and Wyatt scanned the area for any proof of the Ark, they discovered something they weren't expecting. They found boulders with ancient carvings. According to Fasold, those boulders were drogues, or anchor stones, that would have been used to stabilize large ships during a storm.

Nevertheless, these boulders were found miles away from any body of water, but Fasold remained convinced that they had been on the ark. Yet, many remained unconvinced that the story was anything more than a myth.

Others Had Their Doubts

Although Fasold and Wyatt made a persuasive case, some geologists, archaeologists, geophysicists, and other experts were quick to refute their claims.

Many stated that the "frequency generator" that they used was nothing more than a "sounding rod" with some extra equipment and that the drogue stones were nothing more than local gravestones in the area. The theory regarding the Durupinar site was dismissed.

An Old Idea

The theory of an ancient flood is as old as human culture and exists in many different areas and religions. Utnapishtim in the Babylonian Epic of Gilgamesh and Manu in the Hindu Satapatha Brahmana both built boats after being warned of a massive flood from the gods.

There are also similar stories I'm the Sumerian Epic of Ziusurda, Plato's writings, and Chinese and North American Hopi cultures. While the reason for the flooding was usually different, it was agreed upon that the Earth was at some point covered in water.

Gilgamesh Sought Eternal Life

One of the oldest legends of an ancient flood comes from the Babylonian Epic of Gilgamesh. This is a 4,000-year-old poem inscribed on stone tablets, following the king Gilgamesh and his search for eternal life.

During his life, he encountered men, monsters, and gods, most importantly, Utnapishtim, an old man who claimed to have found the secret to eternal life with his wife. Wishing to learn the same secret, Gilgamesh listened to the tale of Utnapishtim's life.

Utnapishtim tells Gilgamesh that the god Ea had intentions to flood the Earth in order to stop humans from overmultiplying. Ea warned Utnapishtim to build a large boat, and Utnapishtim followed his advice.

On the boat, he brought his family, helpers, and "all the animals of the field." Supposedly, not long after Utnapishtim had completed his project, the sky opened up and brought on a storm that washed away everything in its path. However, Utnapishtim remained alive.

They Stayed Safe

Even as the storm raged all around them, Utnapishtim and his family remained safe upon the ship they had been warned to build. When the rains had finally stopped, Utnapishtim opened a hatch and released a dove and a raven to see if there was any nearby land, and eventually, he landed his craft on the side of a mountain.

This tale was written on stone tablets, and although the physical tablets had been missing for millennia, the story is well-known across Babylon and other parts of the world.

A Modern Take

While the story of a devastating flood and an ark can be found in cultures all over the world, many have small differences but the premise remains the same.

Not only has this story been told over and over again in ancient times, but in the modern age as well. The story of Noah's Ark has been made into several movies, including 2014's Noah, starring Russell Crowe and directed by Darren Aronofsky.

Key Differences

While the tale of the Great Flood has persisted throughout history in different cultures, there are several details that are different in each take, and sometimes even within the same story.

For example, in the biblical passage, Noah is supposedly instructed to bring one pair of each animal on the ark. However, another passage claims that he was to take "seven pairs of every kind of clean animal" and "one pair of every kind of unclean animal," and "seven pairs of every kind of bird."

Trekking Up The Mountain

In 2007, a joint Turkish-Hong Kong expedition took place, in which members of Noah's Ark Ministries International (NAMI) made the trek up Mount Ararat to find the lost ark.

Of course, this wasn't an easy task by any means, as Ararat's snowy hillsides and exposed landscape made the climb particularly difficult. The conditions and the weather weren't the only issues they had to face. Currently, Mount Ararat sits in the heart of a closed military zone.

A Strategic Point

Being both high up and near Turkey's border with Iran Armenia, and Azerbaijan, Mount Ararat is considered to be of high military importance in regard to strategy.

In order to visit the mountain, even if you're an expert, you need a special permit to enter the military zones, with many foreigners using a type of "Ararat Visa." Still, even if you do manage to obtain a special pass, you're still only permitted to travel certain paths, which could be deadly if you stray from them.

The Weather Was A Major Problem

Once NAMI expedition team obtained their Ararat Visas, they began their journey up the side of the mountain with the help of a local and skilled guide. The team knew that there was a high chance that they were going to experience harsh weather, and that's exactly what happened.

However, they weren't going to allow that to stop them. Convinced that they were going to find evidence of the ark, they pressed on toward their goal.

They Finally Found Something

After several miserable days of trekking up the mountain and enduring harsh weather and some militants in the area, the NAMI expedition reached an impressive altitude of 4,000 meters.

At this height, this was also where they made an incredible discovery -- a cave. Yet, the cave itself wasn't the greatest part of the discovery, but what they found inside it. It was at this point the team thought that maybe they had finally found what they were looking for.

They Found A Wooden Structure

The research team couldn't believe it when they found what appeared to be a wooden structure inside the cave.

One of the experts, Man-Fai Yuen, noted, "The search team and I personally entered a wooden structure high on the mountain. The structure is partitioned into different spaces. We believe that the wooden structure we encountered is the same structure recorded in the historical accounts and the same ancient boat indicated by the locals."

They Needed Accurate Dating

In order to accurately date the discovery of the wood found in the cave in Mount Ararat, and see if it could possibly be the mythological ark, the NAMI researchers would need to use a special carbon dating process. After processing the wood, they estimated the age of it to be around 4,800 years old.

Now the next step was to determine the origins of the material. In the Bible, it is mentioned that the ark was built from "gopher wood," although the experts weren't entirely sure what that meant.

The Secret To Gopher Wood

The term "gopher wood" was used in the Hebrew Bible just once, and it was to describe the construction of Noah's Ark. Since it hasn't been mentioned anywhere else in history, it's impossible to truly know what it is.

Some theories that have emerged are that it's reeds, another that it's wood reinforced with tar, and another that it's just a type of tree. Although their goal isn't to discover what gopher wood is, if they discovered a new form of wood, it would certainly help their case.

Releasing Footage

Almost three years after the researchers returned from their expedition, in 2010, the explorers released footage of their experience on Mount Ararat. It's suspected that this was done in order to show the public before they released any formal publication.

The video documentation of what they saw on the mountain created some major waves. The footage was examined by experts all over the world, and before long, people began seriously doubting them.

False Accusations

Shortly after the NAMI research team released the videos from their time on Mount Ararat, it didn't take long for some individuals to call the whole thing a hoax.

Some claimed that the ancient wooden beams in the footage were actually sourced from the Black Sea and brought over to the mountain by the guide. Others believed that the wooden structures had been built before the researchers arrived at the cave and began filming.

Confronting The Accusations

The team wasn't going to just roll over on the issue, so on their website, they stated that they consulted with the Director of Cultural Ministries in Agri Province, Mushin Bulut, about the claims that the wood had been brought from somewhere else.

According to their website, Bulut responded that it would be impossible to bring "such an amount of timber to a strictly monitored area and to bring it up to an altitude of 4,000 meters."

True Discovery Of The Ark Would Change Everything

Even if NAMI's findings are real, it would take a massive amount of evidence to convince the majority of the scientific community. Even if some of the claims by the team are verified, there are still countless questions that need answering.

For example, if the ancient story of the flood is based on real events, and only a handful of people and animals on the planet were rescued, an entire study on the biology, geology, and genealogy of the world would need to be reexamined.

Key Problems

One of the major problems with the NAMI findings, when it comes to biological research, is the myth about a boat in one location releasing all of the world's surviving animals, all while humans were still rather primitive.

Biologists rely on DNA codes to track changes and compare them to fossils, so the discovery of a global wipeout paired with the reemergence of plant and wildlife would require a change in every aspect of biology that we know.

Turning To Geology

Even if scientists were able to explain the biology behind such an occurrence, the geological evidence, if there is any, would also need to be deeply explored.

An apocalyptic flood as described in the Bible and other religions would have left behind significant geological traces, such as receding water lines, that wouldn't be hard for modern experts to identify. Regardless, there are still plenty who believe that the evidence in support of the flood and the ark are beyond enough to prove its existence.

People Take Multiple Stories As Truth

While there is still little to no actual scientific proof that the story of Noah's Ark occurred, the question is, how did such a tale find itself embedded into countless cultures around the world?

For many, such a widespread tale, no matter how scientifically inaccurate, is more than enough proof that such a catastrophic event occurred, not even millions of years ago, but mere thousands.

It Isn't All Myth

Although the biblical tale of an apocalyptic flood that covered the Earth may not be scientifically accurate, devastating ancient floods have occurred before, and there's evidence of them in Mesopotamia.

Evidence was discovered that there was a massive flood and that some type of vessel was constructed to help save people and animals. The question is whether such a flood could have made its way to Mount Ararat and if the ark remains on the mountainside.

Relying On Faith

Many of those that doubt the accuracy of the mythological flood rely on scientific facts for their reasoning. However, for others, the truth doesn't need to be based in science.

For many, the story of Noah's Ark and the flood is a literal description of the past and actually happened, even without any scientific backing. Peoples' faith in God surpasses scientific evaluation on many occasions, and for some, this takes the place of scientific research.

The Search Didn't End

While there was a large group of experts that disputed the findings of the NAMI expedition, those in search of the ark haven't given up on their quest. There are still many people out there that believe the Ark still rests on Mount Ararat and is just waiting to be found.

But what does this mean for future expeditions? Will the next explorers build off of what the NAMI expedition claimed to have found or start fresh?

Plans For Future Expeditions Have Been Stalled

Journeys to the peak of Mount Ararat continue to be planned by various groups including people of faith, scientists, and overall adventurers.

However, there has been an issue. While the NAMI expedition had good intentions, their methods of research went against Turkish authorities, making the already hard-to-obtain Ararat Visa even more difficult to get. Today, even fewer people are allowed on the mountain, which is proving to be difficult for those in search of the ark.

A Major Infraction

According to Turkish authorities, once the NAMI team took samples from the wooden beams at the site in the cave and took them to Hong Kong for testing, this was a major offense.

As in many places, taking archaeological artifacts from one country and bringing them to another without permission is not permitted. Fortunately for NAMI, they will not suffer any legal repercussions, but they certainly made it harder for future researchers to obtain visas.

A Story Told For Generations

For generations, the story of the Great Flood and Noah's Ark have fascinated the world. Cultures and religions ranging from Christianity to the ancient Sumerians and modern interpretations have told a story that has inspired faith from those that have heard it.

Even skeptics who doubt the reality of such an event are still fascinated by the story and how it managed to find itself at the center of so many different cultures.

The Power Of Storytelling

Although it remains unclear if the evidence collected by the NAMI team will ever be accepted as accurate, one thing remains fascinating, and that's the power of storytelling. The tale has been told for thousands of years, with various cultures making adjustments to fit their belief system.

Not only is the message of the tale itself important to pay attention to, but it also shows the power of storytelling and how it can prevail for thousands of years.

The Mystery Remains

While NAMI's expedition may not end up proving that the ark existed, they also didn't prove that it didn't. It's a highly-debated topic, especially in fields such as archaeology, and will most likely remain so until there is a clear answer, and even then there will be arguments.

People will continue to search for the biblical vessel and maybe one day someone will shock the world with proof that there is an ark on Mount Ararat.

More Than Just Research

While the search for the ark is a fascinating study, even more important is what the impact of the story has had both in the past and present. A story retold for thousands of years is still believed today, which is incredibly impressive.

Furthermore, the search for the ark during modern times has not just polarized the scientific community but has also brought nations and belief systems together, something that is rare these days.

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