Ark Encounter (Williamstown, Kentucky)
City:
Williamstown
State, Province, Region, or District:
Kentucky
Country:
United States of America
Overview
The Ark Encounter is a Christian-themed park in Williamstown, Kentucky, featuring a full-size reconstruction of Noah's Ark based on the dimensions provided in the Bible. The Ark is a massive timber-frame structure and is the park's main attraction. Inside the three-deck ark, visitors can explore exhibits depicting Noah's life, what the Ark's living quarters might have looked like, and how the animals could have been housed and cared for.
In addition to the Ark itself, there is also the Ararat Ridge Zoo which is a petting zoo with live animals, including kangaroos, camels, and other species. There is also an aerial adventure course with zip lines and free-fall experiences available. Visitors can also journey back to the time of Noah in an immersive 4D virtual reality experience to witness the building of Noah’s ark, observe the flood, venture inside the Ark with the animals, and more!
Alternate Names
Noah's Ark Encounter
Geography & Location
The Ark Encounter is located in the rolling hills of Grant County Kentucky, along I-75, midway between Cincinnati, Ohio and Lexington, Kentucky.
Biblical, Historical, & Archaeological Background Information
Biblical Connection
Architecture
The Ark Encounter's main feature is a 510-foot long, 85-foot wide, and 51-foot high life-size replica of Noah's Ark from the Bible, which is the largest timber-frame structure in the world.
Biblical & Historical References
The story of Noah's Flood is found in Genesis 6:9 - 9:17.
Spiritual Lessons and Application
The Cultural Debate
Etymology
The name Noah comes from the Hebrew name Noach (נֹחַ), which means "rest" or "comfort". It is derived from the Hebrew root word nuach, meaning "to rest," "settle down," or "repose". In the Biblical account, Noah's father Lamech gives this meaning when he says, "This one shall bring us relief (ינחמנו) from our work and from the toil of our hands," (Genesis 5:29) connecting the name to the comfort brought by the end of the cursed ground.
Site Details
The ark contains 132 bays, each standing about 18 feet (5.5 m) high, arranged into three decks. Visitors enter on the lowest deck and move between decks on ramps constructed through the center of the ark.
Places of Interest
Ark Replica