Visiting The Ark Encounter had been on my bucket list for years—and taking my kids along made it even more special. After having inquisitive boys who constantly ask about God, creation, and the flood, I knew this was the perfect time for our family trip, which I share here.
The Ark itself is absolutely spectacular. No matter your expectations, seeing it in person makes you think bigger. I was in awe of the immense size, the intricate details, and the overall experience of the grounds.
For families with children ages 2–8, I highly recommend breaking the visit into two days. Older kids could likely do it in one day, but with younger children, this ensures everyone stays energized, engaged, and happy.
Day One: Exploring the Ark
We arrived early and headed straight to the Ark. The view from a distance is breathtaking, and the structure is even more impressive up close.
Upon arrival, you’ll need to park, scan tickets, pass through metal detectors, and hop on a short shuttle ride to the main entrance—think of it as a historical amusement park because there’s so much to see beyond the Ark itself.
We spent about four hours walking through the Ark—from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.—taking in the exhibits, reading signs, exploring each deck, and snapping countless photos. If you’re reading to little ones, be prepared for some stops and breaks along the way.
Afterward, we had lunch at Emzara’s Buffet, conveniently located right outside the Ark. The buffet was perfect for our picky eaters, with options ranging from salads and French fries to ribs—everyone left happy and full. By mid-afternoon, the kids were tired, so we returned to Abide Glamping to rest and recharge.
Day Two: Ark Encounter Zoo & More
We started early again and headed to the Ark Zoo, which deserves plenty of time to explore. This area was a highlight for our family, featuring:
✦ Endangered animals and exotic species from South America
✦ A Wallaby Walkabout where you can freely walk with wallabies
✦ A Kid Zone petting zoo with goats, chickens, and guinea pigs
✦ Camel encounters, where my 6-year-old Richard bravely fed a camel
While the boys enjoyed a Virtual Reality show in the on-site theater, I took our 2-year-old Selah to the carousel, included with admission. She had a blast while her brothers experienced VR.
The zoo sits on a hillside, offering amazing views, and provides a hands-on experience that keeps kids engaged and learning. Lunch was quick and convenient at a stand near the turf playground, where the kids ran, climbed, and played for over an hour before we headed back to Eden Reserve for downtime.
Tips for Visiting the Ark Encounter with Kids
✦ Bring a stroller if you have toddlers—the park is stroller-friendly, and it makes walking around much easier.
✦ Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll do a lot of walking!
✦ Bring water and snacks or purchase them on-site—there are plenty of convenient options.
✦ Arrive early to take photos before crowds arrive; the shuttle moves quickly, and waits are minimal.
✦ Military families: Ask about discounts if applicable.
✦ Children 10 and under are free in 2025 with one paid adult (no limit to how many kids).
*Take advantage of this while your children are young!
Final Thoughts
Visiting the Ark Encounter with kids was truly a faith-filled and unforgettable experience. Breaking the trip into two days allowed our family to explore fully without stress, and every aspect—from the exhibits to the zoo to the playground—kept the kids engaged and happy.
Pairing this adventure with our stays at Abide Glamping and Eden Reserve made the trip smooth, comfortable, and memorable. If you’re planning a family trip to Kentucky, the Ark Encounter should be at the top of your list for a meaningful, fun, and educational experience. If you need help planning, I cover our whole trip in my blog, A Family Guide to Visiting the Ark Encounter & Creation Museum in Kentucky.
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