museum

I Noah Guy

| Chris

As I ventured into the heart of Kentucky, I found myself stepping back in time. Way back! On our way to Cincinnati, my friend and I stopped at the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum, two immersive attractions that dive into the biblical past.

Nestled in Williamstown, some 45 miles north of Lexington, the Ark Encounter is a marvel of modern craftsmanship and ancient narrative. The centerpiece, a full-size replica of Noah’s Ark, stands as the largest timber-frame structure in the world, constructed with a blend of history and art.

Walking out of welcome center/souvenir shop into the vast park, I was struck by the Ark’s colossal size. It’s a tangible testament to the biblical account. And whether you’re a believer or otherwise, the sheer scale of the structure is undoubtedly awe-inspiring.

Inside, the exhibits bring to life the story of Noah and his ark, complete with lifelike animal models and thought-provoking displays about life on the ark during the flood.

The Ark Encounter isn’t just about history though. The park boasts a zip line course that sends you soaring through the sky, offering a bird’s-eye view of the grounds. It also features a small zoo that houses some of the animals that may have been on the ark.

About a 45 minute drive north of the Ark Encounter lies the Creation Museum in Petersburg, KY. This 75,000-square-foot facility is a wonderland of exhibits that merge biblical history with creation science.

The moment I stepped into the museum, I was transported to a world where dinosaurs roam alongside depictions of Adam and Eve. The museum’s animatronic creatures, stunning dioramas and interactive displays affords everyone a dynamic experience.

The museum also features a planetarium, botanical gardens and a zip line adventure course. But perhaps what’s most captivating is the museum’s storytelling approach, walking you through biblical history and offering a unique perspective on our existence.

Outside the museum is a nice tranquil path that goes around the property. You can walk while meditating. You can also feed the geese or just watch some wildlife.

Both the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum offer more than just a day’s entertainment; they provide a space for reflection on the narratives that have shaped human history. It is educational and memorable. And fun!

Stellar Day at the Cosmosphere

| Chris

A friend and I decided to go on a road trip for a couple of weeks. We’ve done it many times in the past. This time we wanted to go where we’ve never been to before. The heartland! Our first stop? Cosmosphere.

Located in Hutchinson, Kansas, this place is a portal to the cosmos that rivals the dreams of science fiction enthusiasts and the curiosity of avid learners alike. I was pleasantly surprised! In the middle of nowhere. it seems, the Cosmosphere is not just a museum; it’s a celebration of human ingenuity and the spirit of exploration that has propelled us into the stars.

What is the Cosmosphere, you ask? Well, I learned that it is an internationally recognized STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) education center and a Smithsonian-affiliated museum. It houses over 13,000 spaceflight artifacts, boasting the largest combined collection of US and Russian spaceflight artifacts in the world. This makes it a unique repository of space history and a beacon of knowledge for all who visit. And I’m glad, I did!

Experiencing the Thrill of Space Exploration upon entering, I was greeted by the imposing sight of the SR-71 Blackbird, its wings spanning the lobby, a silent testament to the speed and heights humanity can achieve. The place is way bigger than it looks outside and there’s quite a bit to keep you busy for a full day.

In the Hall of Space Museum, I walked through the story of the space race, learning about the technological and cultural differences between the superpowers vying for lunar supremacy.

The Carey Digital Dome Theater is a two-story dome theater with its 4K digital projection system. It features stunning documentaries and feature films, and makes you feel part of the journey into space.

The Justice Planetarium shows a guide to the night sky, and teaches you how to spot planets and constellations above Kansas.

The live science demonstration inside Dr. Goddard’s Lab was literally a blast! With safe explosions and bright lights, it was both educational and entertaining.

Well, my quick visit to the Cosmosphere was well worth the detour, I would say. It was an enlightening journey through the history and future of space exploration. A stellar adventure, indeed!

Too bad, we only had a few hours to spare before we had to move on. Maybe someday, I’ll come back. If you get a chance to visit, do it!