You might have seen on my Instagram that I recently visited the Creation Museum and The Ark Encounter in Kentucky this past week. I'll have to admit, I wasn't planning on being so astounded on this trip. I just thought we were going to tour a replica of the Ark, and that was it. Boy, was I in for a surprise! This short trip now holds some of my favorite memories from any vacation. It was more educational and inspiring than I was prepared for.
For our trip, we stayed at the Hampton Inn in Florence, Kentucky which is about halfway between the Creation Museum and the Ark. There were amazing dining options near our hotel, and even some shopping if you have the time. We bought combination tickets which included both the Creation Museum and the Ark. Prices for combo tickets include $80 per 1 adult, $70 per 1 senior adult, $45 each for children 11-17, and children under 10 get in free.
Several people had recommended we visit the Creation Museum before the Ark Encounter, so that is exactly what we did. I'm not much of a museum person. I often get bored walking and reading for hours, so to be honest, I wasn't as excited about this part of the trip. I didn't quite understand what we'd be seeing. "Noah and the Ark" was on my mind, not creation. It wasn't until after we visited the museum that I realized how both creation and the Ark go hand-in-hand.
We started our day at the Creation Museum in Petersburg, Kentucky around 9:30am. It opens at 9:00am everyday except Sunday (12:00pm). We bought our tickets and began touring the museum. Just like any science museum, the Creation Museum was filled with short movies to watch, life size human and animal figures, amazing speakers, and incredible details in design. Outside, you can quickly find yourself at the petting zoo, an amazing play area for kids, and even zip-lining. There were multiple lunch/ snack options. This is always a concern for me as I can only eat gluten-free. For lunch, I had a delicious cheeseburger on a gluten-free bun at Noah's Cafe, but there were so many more options- sandwiches, wraps, salads, and dinner entrees. You can grab a pizza at Palm Cafe or a snack at Noah's Coffee and Ice Cream.
To say that this place has it all is an understatement, but the best part about it all is that everything is from a "Creation" standpoint. Not only does it focus on the historical and scientific evidence of Creation, but the museum also showcases several well known Biblical characters such as David, Daniel and, of course, Jesus. It shows the proof that God's Word is THE truth. They truly did not miss anything in the making of this museum. The Gospel is preached, and it's sure to answer any Biblical questions you might have!
The next day, we toured the Ark in Williamstown, KY! Seeing the massive boat from the highway already had us in awe. We bought combination tickets at the Creation Museum the day before so we simply showed them our tickets, got our wristbands and headed to the shuttle bus that took us to the Ark. We visited at a cold/ slow time, so we did not have to wait in line, but be prepared to if visiting in the summer.
Just like the Creation Museum, the Ark is air-conditioned and filled with restrooms, snacks, is wheelchair and stroller accessible (and available to rent), has an amazing play area and another petting zoo! Plenty of dining options are available outside. My husband and I shared a delicious gluten-free pizza, but there is actually an entire (and huge) buffet-style restaurant outside that smelled amazing.The self-guided tour starts at ground level and continues to climb through Deck 1, 2 and 3. Each deck holds something different whether it be the animal cages or the living quarters. I won't give anything away, but it was extremely interesting to see a real-life interpretation of Noah's innovation and craftsmanship.
Most importantly, it also preaches the Gospel. You cannot experience the Ark nor the Creation Museum without taking a look within your heart. It is so encouraging to the believer and, I'm sure, very convicting to the nonbeliever. This is an experience that all families and churches with children of all ages should see if at all possible! We also heard some amazing speakers at both locations including Bodie Hodge and Ken Ham. I highly recommend making it a point to hear them.
In preparation for our trip, we were reading up on the story of Noah in Genesis. The world was so evil and sinful that God actually regretted creating the human race. But, in the midst of all the corruption, one man stood out- Noah. Noah was faithful and obedient even when he was literally the only one. How's that for courage? God had a great task for Noah, and He knew that Noah would obey. It took 75 years for Noah to complete the ark. 75 years. 75 years of others ridiculing and mocking him and his family. 75 years of building a giant boat when it had never even rained on the Earth before. Yet, he continued to obey and to warn everyone of what was to come-the wrath of God because of their sin.
Could there be a more appropriate story to study in our world today? This was so convicting to me as a child of God. His Word is the truth, and it is always applicable. Am I sharing it with everyone around me? Can God look at me and know that I will obey even when it doesn't make sense? Will I be bold in the midst of scoffers and mockers? Sadly, no one listened or believed Noah, and the Earth and the rest of it's inhabitants were destroyed. Only Noah and his family were spared because they were faithful. I read a quote once that said, "Make sure your kids are on the ark." This was profound to me because it means to make sure you have taught your children the truth. Make sure they are prepared for eternity. But, this must be applied to everyone around us. Children, family members, coworkers, classmates, even strangers- make sure they are on the ark.
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