One Day Tour Nashville To Ark Encounter

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines awe-inspiring architecture, faith-based storytelling, and a comfortable journey, this Nashville to Ark Encounter tour might be just what you need. Offered by Metro Livery, it promises an easy, hassle-free way to explore the world’s largest timber-frame structure—a life-size replica of Noah’s Ark—without the worry of planning logistics yourself.

What we really appreciate about this experience are its inclusiveness and the chance to see something truly unique in Kentucky—an impressive feat of craftsmanship that’s as educational as it is visually stunning. The admission tickets included mean no waiting in lines, and the private transportation ensures a relaxed trip, free from the chaos of public transit.

One consideration worth noting is that this is a full-day trip of approximately six hours, so it works best for travelers who enjoy a structured schedule and don’t mind a bit of time on the bus. Also, while the price of $175 per person includes most costs, gratuities are not included—something to keep in mind if you want to tip your driver and guides.

This tour is suited for families, faith-based groups, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone curious about biblical stories brought to life through impressive craftsmanship. If you love engaging exhibits and enjoy learning about different cultures and histories, this trip offers plenty of value.

Key Points

• Comprehensive package: Round-trip transportation, admission, and a full day of exploration.
• Impressive structure: The life-size Noah’s Ark is a stunning feat of wooden architecture.
• Engaging exhibits: Interactive displays and realistic animal models make the story come alive.
• Zoo visit: The Ararat Ridge Zoo offers a chance to see exotic animals like kangaroos and camels.
• Flexible dining options: Lunch on your own at the on-site buffet provides a chance to relax and refuel.
• Convenient pickup: Meeting point in Nashville is straightforward, with transportation arranged for you.

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure and Pickup in Nashville

The tour begins early, with a pickup at 2 International Plaza at 6:00 am. While this might seem quite early, it allows for a full day of sightseeing and plenty of time to explore the Ark Encounter without feeling rushed. The bus ride is part of the experience—expect comfy seating and perhaps some good conversation or a nap.

Visiting the Ark Encounter

The highlight of the day is the Ark itself—a massive timber structure stretching 510 feet long, 85 feet wide, and 51 feet high. This scale alone is enough to impress, but what makes it even more engaging are the three levels of exhibits.

We loved the way the exhibits showcase stunning handcrafted wooden architecture, which emphasizes the craftsmanship involved in building the Ark. The biblical story of Noah is told through interactive displays and lifelike animal models, giving visitors a visual and tactile sense of what life aboard the Ark might have been like. The living quarters exhibit provides a glimpse into the daily life of Noah and his family, making the story feel more tangible.

The Zoo Experience

A bonus is the Ararat Ridge Zoo, where you can see live exotic animals such as kangaroos, camels, and emus. This adds a fun, family-friendly element and provides more opportunities for photos and learning about different species.

Lunch Break

The included itinerary suggests lunch at Emzaras Kitchen, a two-story buffet-style restaurant. While the tour price doesn’t include this meal, it’s a good opportunity to rest and discuss what you’ve seen so far. You might want to consider packing some snacks or bringing cash for additional purchases.

Return Trip

After a solid five hours exploring the Ark and zoo, you’ll board the bus for the return to Nashville, aiming to arrive around 3:30 pm. The convenience of private transportation means you won’t need to worry about navigating or parking.

What Travelers Say and Why It Matters

While there are no official reviews yet, the tour’s description hints at some key aspects travelers will find valuable. For example, the full-day experience ensures a thorough visit, not just a quick peek. The fact that admission is included reduces the hassle of queueing or extra costs, making this a good value for the price.

The emphasis on stunning craftsmanship and interactive exhibits suggests this tour offers more than just a visit; it’s an educational experience that brings a biblical story to life through impressive architecture and engaging displays.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $175, the cost might seem high at first glance, but when you account for round-trip transportation, admission, and the zoo visit, it’s quite reasonable. On top of that, the convenience of everything being arranged for you means you can relax and focus on enjoying the day.

This tour especially benefits those who want a stress-free experience, avoiding the hassle of renting a car, planning routes, or waiting in line. For families or groups interested in combining faith, history, and impressive architecture, it’s a solid choice.

Who Should Consider This Trip?

This experience suits travelers who:

• Appreciate well-organized, all-in-one day trips
• Are interested in seeing the world’s largest timber-frame structure
• Want to learn about biblical stories in an interactive manner
• Prefer comfortable transportation rather than navigating solo
• Are traveling with families or groups looking for engaging, educational activities
• Don’t mind a full-day commitment with early start and late return

Final Thoughts

This Nashville to Ark Encounter tour offers a good mix of convenience, educational value, and visual impact. It’s perfect for those who enjoy seeing impressive architecture while learning about biblical stories in a lively environment. You’ll love the stunning craftsmanship of the Ark and the chance to see exotic animals up close, all without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

While it’s a fairly structured day, the experience is flexible enough for most travelers. Whether you’re a faith-based traveler, history enthusiast, or just curious about one of the most famous biblical stories, this trip delivers a memorable, worthwhile outing.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $175 fee covers private transportation, admission tickets to the Ark Encounter, and a full-day schedule. Gratuities are not included.

What time does the tour start and end?
Pickup is at 6:00 am at 2 International Plaza in Nashville. The tour ends back at the same spot around 3:30 pm.

Is food included during the trip?
No, lunch is not included. However, there is an option to purchase a meal at Emzaras Kitchen, a two-story buffet restaurant at the Ark.

How long is the entire trip?
The total duration is approximately 6 hours, including travel time and sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed to be family-friendly, with engaging exhibits and animal encounters that appeal to kids and adults alike.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking through three levels of exhibits.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time, allowing for some flexibility.

Is there public transportation nearby?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transportation options, making it easier to reach.

Will I get a smartphone ticket?
Yes, tickets are issued digitally, making check-in straightforward.

Final Word

This Nashville to Ark Encounter day trip is a practical way to see one of the most iconic biblical structures and enjoy some engaging exhibits without the hassle of planning. It’s most suitable for those who value a comfortable, structured experience that combines faith-inspired architecture with family fun. For a value-packed day that’s both educational and visually striking, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.