Ark Encounter, a creationist theme park in Kentucky, is taking its ‘Truth Traveler’ virtual reality (VR) experience to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee and Branson, Missouri.
Home to an enormous replica of Noah’s ark, Ark Encounter is owned and operated by Christian apologetics ministry Answers in Genesis. It opened in 2016 and has a sister attraction called the Creation Museum.
Answers in Genesis has broken ground on the new attraction for Pigeon Forge, which it has described as a “unique combination of cutting-edge technology blended with captivating biblical narratives”.
As well as the biblical VR experience, the new location will offer a state-of-the-art planetarium with laser projectors. It is scheduled to open early next year.
Truth Traveler, a multi-sensory VR ride that immerses guests in key moments in biblical history, is also getting a third location in Branson.
“I’m excited that once again we are stepping out in faith to build some special attractions, this time taking them out to where people are in the culture in major tourist areas like Pigeon Forge and Branson,” said Answers in Genesis founder and CEO Ken Ham.
Ground broken in Pigeon Forge
“What a unique opportunity to impact the culture with God’s word and the saving gospel.”
In Branson, there will be pre- and post-show experiences. The latter will be situated in a 1,200-seat theatre that can transform into an evening venue for live performances and concerts. This venue is expected to open in March 2025.
Pigeon Forge mayor David Wear said: “What excites me the most about this project, besides the jobs that are going to be created and the property that is going back on the tax rolls to produce revenue, is that not only is this going to be a destination in and of itself, but that it’s going to be a faith-based destination.”
