Noah's Ark & Amish Country 27

Day 1

Welcome Aboard! Settle back, relax, and enjoy a leisurely drive to the beautiful Bluegrass State of Kentucky, where an unforgettable journey of biblical proportions awaits. This inspiring getaway also offers the opportunity to discover the rich traditions and simple way of life found in the heart of Ohio's Amish Country. Upon arrival, we check into the Hampton Inn in Walton, Kentucky, our home for the next two nights. This evening, enjoy dinner on your own at one of several nearby restaurants conveniently located within walking distance of the hotel before retiring for a restful night's sleep in preparation for the adventures ahead.

Day 2

After breakfast we depart for Williamstown, Kentucky, and the world-famous Ark Encounter, a full-size Noah's Ark experience built according to the dimensions recorded in the Bible. Recognized as the largest timber-framed structure in the world, this one-of-a-kind, historically themed attraction measures an astounding 510 feet long, 85 feet wide, and 51 feet high. This modern engineering marvel is sure to amaze visitors of all ages. From the moment you step inside the Ark, you will experience the pages of the Bible like never before through fascinating exhibits designed to educate and inspire. Explore all three levels of the Ark, beginning with exhibits depicting life Before the Flood, continuing with scenes from During the Flood, and concluding with displays illustrating life After the Flood. See Noah's study and living quarters, storage vessels, cages, recreations of how Noah and his family may have lived, and an animatronic Noah who will answer your questions. You will also enjoy visiting the friendly animals in the Ararat Ridge Zoo. With so much to see and do, you are sure to leave both amazed and inspired by this extraordinary attraction. A delicious lunch is included at Emzara's Kitchen, located adjacent to the Ark. Following our visit, we travel to BB Riverboats, where it is "All Aboard!" for an evening of fun, fellowship, and inspiration on a special Gospel Dinner Cruise. Relax in a festive atmosphere as you enjoy a delicious dinner and spectacular views of the Cincinnati skyline from the water. Sing along, clap along, and lift your voice to many beloved gospel favorites, including "Put Your Hand in the Hand," "How Great Thou Art," "I Believe," "You'll Never Walk Alone," "Go Tell It on the Mountain," and many more. Following our memorable cruise, we return to our hotel for a restful night's sleep.

Day 3

After breakfast we depart for Ohio's Amish Country. Upon arrival in Walnut Creek, Ohio, we visit Walnut Creek Cheese & Market, where you will have time to enjoy lunch on your own, browse the general store featuring a wonderful assortment of cheeses, baked goods, gifts, and specialty products, and savor an included ice cream cone. Next, we meet our local step-on guide and set out to discover a simpler way of life with a scenic tour through the Amish farmlands. Traveling the picturesque back roads, our guide will share the history, traditions, and culture of the Amish community. Our tour includes a visit to the Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center, home to Behalt, a remarkable 10-foot by 265-foot circular mural. This painted oil-on-canvas cyclorama uses unique artistic techniques of color and perspective to tell the story of the Amish, Mennonites, and Hutterites through centuries of history. One of only four cycloramas in North America, Behalt offers a fascinating and memorable educational experience. Following our tour, we check into our hotel for the evening, where you will have time to relax and freshen up before heading out for dinner and entertainment. We enjoy a delicious dinner at Berlin Farmstead Restaurant before taking our reserved seats for a hilarious, family-friendly variety show at the Amish Country Theatre. Filled with comedy, parody songs, and wholesome humor, this entertaining performance is sure to have you laughing throughout the evening. Afterwards, we return to our hotel for a restful night's sleep.

Day 4

After breakfast we begin our journey home, taking with us cherished memories of this unforgettable tour of biblical proportions and a deeper appreciation for the simple traditions and enduring faith of Ohio's Amish community. From the awe-inspiring Ark Encounter and uplifting Gospel Dinner Cruise to the scenic beauty and rich heritage of Amish Country, this inspirational getaway has provided a wonderful blend of faith, fellowship, history, and wholesome entertainment. We return home with lasting memories and a renewed appreciation for God's creation and the values that unite us all.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D =Dinner