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Reid Gilson

Ark Encounter Rainbow Entrance

The Kentucky Ark Encounter: A Journey of Joy and Wonder

February 17, 2024Reid Gilson

Located in Williamstown, Kentucky, the Kentucky Ark Encounter offers an immersive experience that brings the story of Noah’s Ark to life. This unique attraction showcases a massive replica of the ark, complete with stunning exhibits and interactive displays that will leave you in awe. Whether you’re a history buff, a religious scholar, or simply someone seeking a fun and enlightening adventure, the Kentucky Ark Encounter is a must-visit destination. We are here to recap our experience and tell you about the highlights and options when visiting!
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What to Expect When Exploring the Kentucky ArkAs you approach the giant ark, there are many photo opportunities and you’ll start your journey that is guided by a path with different signage along the way. People are free to stop and read or pass by as they please. You’ll board a series of ramps, and lines until you finally step aboard the 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. Once you step inside, you’ll be transported back in time. As you wander through this huge replica, every step will leave you more amazed than the last. The attention to detail is astounding, and the immersive exhibits feel extremely real. One of the highlights of the Ark Encounter is the interactive displays that allow you to experience what life was like aboard the ark. From the sounds of animals, to the smell of hay, every sense is engaged in a way that truly brings the story to life. The attention to detail from the craftsmanship and engineering is amazing as you see what went into constructing it. But it’s not just the physical structure that makes this experience so special. The Ark Encounter also offers a variety of exhibits and presentations that delve deeper into the story of Noah and the ark. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the historical and religious significance of this tale, and leave with a renewed sense of wonder and appreciation. You’ll pass through exhibits covering every topic possible around the Ark, including what was my personal favorite of how they managed to feed and water every animal aboard. You’ll peek through the living quarters, and see videos, and other exhibits that bring the experience to life. A Variety of Experiences at the Ark EncounterOne of the highlights of the ark experience is the Ararat Ridge Zoo where you can encounter live animals. Get up close and personal with a variety of creatures, including exotic birds, reptiles, and even a few furry friends. It’s a truly immersive experience that allows you to appreciate the beauty and diversity of the animal kingdom. Here are a few other attractions the Ark Encounter has to offer:Children’s Zoo – Meet their friendly pigs and herd of goats / FREE encounter / dates and times vary

Mining Sluice & Fossil Find – Pan through water for treasure and fossils / Bags of dirt range from $8 – $55 + 6% Kentucky sales tax / dates and times vary (Weather permitting)

Camel Encounter – Feed the Camels and capture a photo with your new friend / $3 per encounter + 6% Kentucky sales tax / One encounter equals 3 pieces of lettuce / dates and times vary (weather permitting)

Camel Rides – Experience the journey of traveling during biblical times on the back of a camel / Rides are $10 per person + 6% Kentucky sales tax / dates and times vary (weather permitting)

Kangaroo Walkabout – Walk with the Kangaroos / FREE encounter / dates and times vary (weather permitting)

Carousel – Ride with your favorite animals on the carousel / FREE with general admission / Ages 2+ / Must be 36″ to ride, 48″+ to ride alone

Virtual Reality Experience: Truth Traveler – Journey back in time and see the development of the Ark and the great flood in this 4K VR experience / $14.99 for ages 11+, $9.99 for ages 10 and under

Zipline & Adventure Park –

Zipline – 3 levels of intensity / 1 – 4 hours / Ages 8+ / $59 – $139 per person (depending on date and intensity level) / dates and times vary (weather permitting)

– Free Fall Experience – 30 minute experience / $17.95 per person / dates and times vary (weather permitting)

– Challenge course – 1.5 hour challenge / Tier 1: Screaming Eaglet $39 per person – 4YO+ / Tier 2: Screaming Eagle $79 per person – 10YO+ / dates and times vary (weather permitting)Resident Concerts – Experience live music with TrueSong / Ticket prices and dates vary

Adventure Kids Park – Playground filled with slides, tunnels, and climbing structures / FREE with General Admission

Many dining options for you and your family –

Emzara’s Buffet – Smokehouse – Southwest Grill – Zofar’s – Olive Leaf CafeThis is easily an all-day or even all weekend affair as you journey through the exhibits and attractions. The DetailsWhere is the Kentucky Ark Encounter located? 1 Ark Encounter Drive, Williamstown, KY 41097. Located in Grant County, halfway between Cincinnati and Lexington and right off I-75

How do I contact the Ark? 855-284-3275

What’s their website? www.arkencounter.com

What is the Price of Ark Encounter? $59.95 (Adults 18-59), $49.95 (Senior), $29.95 (Children 11-17), FREE for Children 10 & Under

Pro Tip: On holidays they will do free admission for certain groups, like Mothers day mothers get free, Veterans Day Veterans get in free, and so on. Check their website for more details.

Honeywood Restaurant

Valentine’s Date Night in Kentucky

February 7, 2024Reid Gilson

Love is in the air! If you’re looking for the perfect spot to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Kentucky, we’ve got you covered. From cozy restaurants to romantic date night spots, there are plenty of options to make your evening unforgettable. Kentucky boasts a variety of restaurants that are perfect for a romantic dinner. Whether you’re craving Italian cuisine, indulging in a steakhouse experience, or exploring unique cocktails, there’s something for every couple’s taste buds.Valentine’s Day in LouisvilleKnowing Louisville is the largest city in Kentucky, there are a variety of date night activities to experience. Here are few options we recommend if you are in the Louisville area:For excellent Italian food and a floor to ceiling wine selection, consider Volare Italian Ristorante. Being locally owned and using locally sourced ingredients, they offer fresh and inspired dishes that appeal to a variety of different palettes. Check out their website for more info: you are looking for a more intimate atmosphere, with that speakeasy feel, check out the Black Rabbit. A St. Matthew’s hidden gem, they offer an amazing atmosphere, with excellent food and drinks. I recommend using the side entrance, where you pass through the secret bookshelf for entry. Great place for not only dinner, but to meet for drinks. Check out their website for more:  Boasting the most eclectic steak menu in Louisville, look no further than Le Moo. A steak lover’s dream, they offer Filet Flights and Wagyu options along with their delicious dinner menu. Check out their website for more info: Day in LexingtonIf you’re looking to take your date night up a notch, why not explore some unique experiences? Check out the Distillery District and experience while it is the new fun spot to be. They offer a variety of dinner options, ice cream at Crank & Boom, live music at The Burl, Play at District 7 Social , visit the two distilleries on site, and plenty of beer on tap at Ethereal Brewing. Check out their website for more:  Need a romantic Italian spot in Lexington? Check out the locally owned Bella Notte. Focusing on quality and fresh ingredients, they make the extra effort to make sure their dishes speak for themselves. Check out their menu on their website:  Looking for a restaurant near Fritz Farm? Honeywood Restaurant offers a delicious Kentucky cuisine, appealing to the southern style food lover in all of us. With the mission to preserve local agriculture, they use quality fresh ingredients to enhance the flavor in every bite. Check out their website for more info: Restaurant, The Summit at Fritz Farm in LexingtonValentine’s Day in FrankfortA romantic experience in a historic setting, checkout Limewater. A family owned and operated bistro, located in the historic Glen Willis House in Frankfort, nestled on the banks of the Kentucky River. Sourcing all their ingredients from Kentucky farms, they have a wide array of delicious dishes and options for everyone. Check out their website for more: for Italian restaurants in Frankfort? Serafini is a magnificent option, offering a Kentucky – Italian fusion in the heart of the capital city. Set in the historic streets of downtown Frankfort, enjoy delicious dishes while looking over at the Old Kentucky Capitol Building across the street. A beautiful, romantic experience right in the heart of Kentucky. Check out their website for more info:  For the bourbon lover in all of us, instead of dinner, consider taking a tour of the historic Buffalo Trace Distillery. The capital of bourbon, take a tour and taste the unique flavors of Kentucky Bourbon. Check out their website to schedule a tour: Trace in Frankfort, KYValentine’s Day in OwensboroIf you’re from Owensboro, you know they have a beautiful historic district in town. The Miller House is an excellent family owned restaurant with fantastic southern style dishes. An old historic home, remodeled after being hit by the 2007 tornado that hit Owensboro, has since been turned into this fantastic restaurant. After dinner, make your way below the restaurant to Spirits, a bar experience like no other. With over 600 different bourbons, signature cocktails, and live music, you are sure to have an unforgettable night. Checkout their website to see more: you looking for an exclusive, private dining experience? Become a member of the Cupola Club and dine in style inside an old victorian mansion filled with magnificent art. The Cupola Club is a members only dining experience that offers some of the finest food in Kentucky while being surrounded by beautiful curated art to enhance your experience. With the membership, you gain access to a variety of benefits:Private family dining

Professional networking opportunities

Curated wine list featuring retail specials

Wine tastings & dinners

Business meetings / receptions / cocktail parties

No room rental fees for members’ events / Host events with no facility fees

Themed dinners nights

Valentines Day Dinner

New Year’s Eve PartyMemberships range from $55 – $65 per month OR $500 per year, depending on residency and type of membership (prices subject to change at any time). Checkout their website to see more info: amazing seafood with a beautiful view of the Ohio River? Check out Lure Seafood and Grille in the heart of downtown Owensboro. With a hand crafted dinner menu, you are sure to be pleased with any choice you make. They offer a seasonal rotating menu to offer new experiences every visit. Check out their menu on their website: Day in Bowling GreenAnother beautiful historic restaurant is located in the heart of Bowling Green, Kentucky. The Bistro is a one of a kind experience located inside of the historic 1893 Fletcher House, two blocks from Fountain Square. From exceptional dishes to unique signature cocktails, there are options for all to love. Check out their website for more info:  Love steakhouses? Check out Hickory & Oak, an intricate southern style steakhouse with over 150 bourbons. From the delicious appetizers to the juicy steaks, you are sure to find something you love. Outside of their main dinners, they offer a one of a kind group Chef’s Table experience (reservations must be made 2 weeks in advance). Chef Josh will call you to discuss your food preferences and will create a custom curated meal to your liking. The menu will remain a surprise until the night of your dinner. This is a 2 hour experience, tables seat 6-8 people. $1,000 minimum per table. Check out more info on their website:  Looking for an exciting experience filled with sports and thrills? Go check out The Mint Gaming Hall. Offering nearly 500 gaming machines, simulcasted horse races, Top Golf Swing Suites, live music, and a variety of food and drink options, you are sure to have a thrilling time. Check out their website for full details: Day in ElizabethtownWant a more laid back spot for Valentines Day date night, with craft burgers and great cocktails? Check out J.R. Neighbors in Elizabethtown. This is a fun, laid back restaurant offering handcrafted burgers, southern style food, signature cocktails, and a wide beer and bourbon selection. Check out their full menu on their website:  Below J.R. Neighbors, take a trip to the 1920’s, during prohibition, and step into the Cavern Club speakeasy. Enjoy the lounge seating while delighting in hand crafted and infused cocktails with your partner. An intimate atmosphere that is unique and one of a kind. Be sure to check their website for the secret password. Check out their website for more info: Burl in LexingtonMake Your Valentine’s Day a Night to RememberNo matter which restaurant or attraction you choose, be sure to make reservations in advance as Valentine’s Day is a popular time for couples to dine out. So grab your partner’s hand and get ready for an unforgettable Valentine’s date night in Kentucky!Additional Details!Want more info about one of the restaurants listed above? See below!LouisvilleVolare Italian Ristorante / 2300 Frankfort Avenue, Louisville, KY 40206 / (502)-894-4446 / ;

Black Rabbit / 122 Sears Avenue, Louisville, KY 40207 / (502)-897-9721 / ;

Le Moo / 2300 Lexington Road, Louisville, KY 40206 / (502)-458-8888 / Distillery District / 1170 Manchester Street, Lexington, KY 40508 / [email protected] / ;

Bella Notte / 3715 Nicholasville Road, Lexington, KY 40503 / (859)-245-1789 / ;

Honeywood Restaurant / 110 Summit at Fritz Farm, Suite 140, Lexington, KY 40517 / (859)-469-8234 / Bistro / 900 Wilkinson Blvd, Frankfort, KY 40601 / (502)-234-2346 / ;

Serafini / 243 West Broadway Street, Frankfort, KY 40601 / (502)-875-5599 / ;

Buffalo Trace Distillery / 113 Great Buffalo Trace, Frankfort, KY 40601 / (866)-729-3722 / Miller House / 301 East 5th Street, Owensboro KY 42303 / (270)-685-5878 / ;

The Cupola Club / 521 Frederica St., Owensboro, KY 42301 / (270)-852-8120 / ;

Lure Seafood & Grille / (270)-240-4556 / 401 W 2nd St., Owensboro, KY,  42301 / GreenThe Bistro / 1129 College Street, Bowling Green, KY 42101 / (270)-781-9646 / ;

Hickory & Oak / 705 State Street, Unit 54, Bowling Green, KY 42101 / (270)-715-9268 / ;

The Mint Gaming Hall / 2475 Scottsville Road, STE 101 & 102, Bowling Green, KY 42104 / (270)-353-6400 / . Neighbors / 75 Public Square, Elizabethtown, KY 42701 / (270)-982-8282 / ;

Cavern Club / 70 Public Square, Elizabethtown, KY 42701 / (270)-982-8282 /

Glow Kayak in Kentucky

Kayak in Kentucky: Experience the thrill of Kayaking in Kentucky’s Caves!

February 1, 2024Reid Gilson

Get ready to embark on a thrilling kayaking adventure in Kentucky! If you’re an adventure seeker looking for a thrilling outdoor activity, SUP, Stand Up Paddle, Kentucky offers an experience unlike any other, kayaking in a cave! SUP Kentucky is located in Red River Gorge, home to an abundance of natural beauty, including the stunning Red River, tranquil waterfalls, a number of natural stone archways, winding waterways perfect for canoes and Kayaks, and scenic hiking trails. It is an adventure seeker’s paradise. With SUP Kentucky, whether you prefer the excitement of kayaking underground or the peacefulness of a leisurely paddle, this is a great opportunity for both.What to Expect on your Glow Kayak adventureSUP Kentucky guides you through the cave, an old limestone mine nestled in the hills of Red River Gorge. The mine was in use from the 1960’s to the 1980’s. Since then, it has been sold and repurposed for a unique, one of a kind adventure. Your guides will explain the history of the mine and how it has changed over the years. From the start, you are greeted by their half tree half miner friend Dusty, a statue guarding the entrance to the cave. A Unique added feature to this experience is that you get a tour of the cave on your way to the dock. From bats to salamanders, you experience a variety of Kentucky wildlife that calls this place home.Discover the beauty of the cave with the glow of your kayak! Once helped onto your glow kayak or stand up paddle board, you are given the choice of color you would like to glow. We recommend a lighter color (White or light blue) if wanting the clearest view under your boat. There are a number of rainbow trout that call the cave home that are beautiful to see. Embark on your kayaking adventure, and be prepared to be amazed by the stunning beauty that surrounds you. Delve into the enchanting rooms full of fossils and springs as your guides lead you throughout the underground wonder.Other offerings by SUP KentuckySUP Kentucky has a variety of other options for adventure as well. Below is a full listing of their tours:Crystal Kayak and SUP Glow Tour – 1.5 hours / ranging from $75 – $85 per person (depending on the day reserved) / Open Year Round (This is the one we did)

Crystal Kayak Unguided – 2 hours / $100 per person / Open Year Round

SEASONAL: Cumberland Falls Paddle Board Adventure @ Cumberland Falls – 1 hour / $75 per person / Summer & Fall Seasons (2024 dates to be announced)

SEASONAL: Witches & Wizards Full Moon Glow Float @ Carter Caves – 3 hours / $50 per person / Fall Season (2024 dates to be announced)So get ready for adventure as you immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Kentucky’s Red River Gorge. As your kayaking adventure in the beautiful Bluegrass State comes to an end, you’ll find yourself filled with a deep sense of joy and excitement for more. The memories you’ve made, the stunning sights you’ve seen, and the moments of tranquility you’ve experienced on the water will stay with you long after you leave. If you’re planning your next adventure, SUP Kentucky has surely earned its spot on the list. The Basics & FAQWhere is SUP Kentucky located? 2478 Glen Cairn Rd., Rogers, KY 41365

How do I contact or book my visit? 859-407-8857 OR [email protected]

What’s their website:? www.supkentucky.comHave you been to or plan to visit SUP Kentucky? Let us know what you thought in the comments or let us know where we should go next! And for your next outdoor adventure, see what else Kentucky has to offer here!