Join this Unforgettable America's Heartland Tours & Ark Encounter
On this 4-day tour, experience the world’s largest Christian music festival. Along with award-winning artists, you’ll hear from powerful speakers and explore two separate world-class theme parks: the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum.
Meet These Special Guests During Your Exceptional Travel Experience
This talented musical family has enjoyed many popular hit releases during three decades of tremendous success. Their first No.1 release came in 1990 with the song entitled “Here I Am.” Since that time, five of their releases have peaked at No. 1, including “Jerusalem.” In addition to radio success, The Hoppers have enjoyed other national recognition. In 1981, The Hoppers represented Southern gospel music at the Religious Inaugural Celebration for President Ronald Reagan. In 1998, they performed a song for Bill Gaither’s video entitled “Shouting Time.” Since then, they have often appeared on the Gaither Homecoming tour and in several Gaither Homecoming videos.
This talented musical family has enjoyed many popular hit releases during three decades of tremendous success. Their first No.1 release came in 1990 with the song entitled “Here I Am.” Since that time, five of their releases have peaked at No. 1, including “Jerusalem.” In addition to radio success, The Hoppers have enjoyed other national recognition. In 1981, The Hoppers represented Southern gospel music at the Religious Inaugural Celebration for President Ronald Reagan. In 1998, they performed a song for Bill Gaither’s video entitled “Shouting Time.” Since then, they have often appeared on the Gaither Homecoming tour and in several Gaither Homecoming videos.
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Legacy Five took the stage in January 2000, and in that first year, the group recorded a project that brought an Album of the Year nomination. The group’s first single release was also nominated for Song of the Year and reached No. 2 on the charts. Legacy Five was off to a very successful start. Over the years, the group continued to prosper, receiving numerous award nominations and releasing several top 10 singles.
Legacy Five took the stage in January 2000, and in that first year, the group recorded a project that brought an Album of the Year nomination. The group’s first single release was also nominated for Song of the Year and reached No. 2 on the charts. Legacy Five was off to a very successful start. Over the years, the group continued to prosper, receiving numerous award nominations and releasing several top 10 singles.
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Others: That singular focus summarizes the contagious passion that “Pastor Johnny” has imparted to the countless lives across the globe his preaching and shepherding have touched. While the church has experienced significant growth under his leadership, it is growth of the person, not the platform, that continues to energize a ministry that sees its best days ahead. Foremost among the “others” he lives for are his wife, Janet Allen Hunt, and two daughters, Deanna Carswell and Hollie Hixson, as well as his four grandchildren, Katie, Carson, Hope and Addie. Southeastern honored Pastor Johnny in 1997 by naming the Chair of Biblical Preaching in his honor. He has also received several honorary doctorates over the years for his work in ministry.
Others: That singular focus summarizes the contagious passion that “Pastor Johnny” has imparted to the countless lives across the globe his preaching and shepherding have touched. While the church has experienced significant growth under his leadership, it is growth of the person, not the platform, that continues to energize a ministry that sees its best days ahead. Foremost among the “others” he lives for are his wife, Janet Allen Hunt, and two daughters, Deanna Carswell and Hollie Hixson, as well as his four grandchildren, Katie, Carson, Hope and Addie. Southeastern honored Pastor Johnny in 1997 by naming the Chair of Biblical Preaching in his honor. He has also received several honorary doctorates over the years for his work in ministry.
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In May 2004, in answer to God’s call on his life, Matt Rankin of Georgetown, Ohio, started a journey to find men of kindred spirits and equal yoking to partner with him in a mission to fulfill that calling by evangelizing God’s word through song. Soul’d Out Quartet, which is comprised of Dusty Barrett (tenor), Jason McAtee (lead), Matt Rankin (baritone) and Ian Owens (bass), is not only a vocal group continuing the heritage of Southern gospel music, but is foremost a ministry team answering God’s call. In this spirit, Soul’d Out Quartet travels the country with a mission of evangelism and discipleship to win souls for Christ and encourage God’s people to be the salt and light to the world.
In May 2004, in answer to God’s call on his life, Matt Rankin of Georgetown, Ohio, started a journey to find men of kindred spirits and equal yoking to partner with him in a mission to fulfill that calling by evangelizing God’s word through song. Soul’d Out Quartet, which is comprised of Dusty Barrett (tenor), Jason McAtee (lead), Matt Rankin (baritone) and Ian Owens (bass), is not only a vocal group continuing the heritage of Southern gospel music, but is foremost a ministry team answering God’s call. In this spirit, Soul’d Out Quartet travels the country with a mission of evangelism and discipleship to win souls for Christ and encourage God’s people to be the salt and light to the world.
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Jerry Vines, pastor emeritus of the First Baptist Church of Jacksonville, Florida, started preaching at age 16 and pastored several churches before accepting the pastorate at FBC Jacksonville in 1982, where he served for the next 37 years. He earned his bachelor of arts degree at Mercer University, a bachelor of divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and a doctor of theology from Luther Rice Seminary. Through the years, Vines has been active in the Southern Baptist Convention, serving as president of the SBC Pastors’ Conference from 1976–1977 and president of the SBC from 1988–1989.
Jerry Vines, pastor emeritus of the First Baptist Church of Jacksonville, Florida, started preaching at age 16 and pastored several churches before accepting the pastorate at FBC Jacksonville in 1982, where he served for the next 37 years. He earned his bachelor of arts degree at Mercer University, a bachelor of divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and a doctor of theology from Luther Rice Seminary. Through the years, Vines has been active in the Southern Baptist Convention, serving as president of the SBC Pastors’ Conference from 1976–1977 and president of the SBC from 1988–1989.
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*All Artists, Speakers and Guests are subject to change.
ARRIVE IN CINCINNATI, OH
Sunday, August 1, 2021
A recent renaissance of revitalization has breathed new life into this classic midwest city, home to amazing parks, sweeping river views and attractions like the world-famous Cincinnati Zoo. Get your bearings as you prepare for the next few days, then enjoy a walk along the riverfront or dine at one of the city’s highly praised restaurants.
CREATION MUSEUM, PETERSBURG, KY
August 2
Today you’ll make a quick hop over the Ohio River—crossing the Ohio-Kentucky border—for a tour of the Creation Museum. The fascinating, state-of-the-art exhibits will deepen your faith and understanding of the Bible. Upon returning, you’ll kick off the first of two action-packed nights and hear from some of your favorite gospel artists like The Hoppers, Soul’d Out and many more!Sites you'll see include:
- Creation Museum
- Gospel Music Festival Concert
ARK ENCOUNTER DAY, WILLIAMSTOWN, KY
August 3
Experience Scripture coming to life as you explore the largest timber-frame structure in the world: the life-size Noah’s Ark! Take your time and explore at your own pace. Along the way you’ll encounter live animals at the Ararat Ridge Zoo, learn about science from a biblical perspective at the Fossil Find and soar through the air on the Ark Encounter’s zipline! Your day and evening will be filled with concerts featuring the sounds of Legacy Five and Ivan Parker, along with a dynamic message by Johnny Hunt.Sites you'll see include:
- Ark Encounter
- Gospel Music Festival Concerts
Wednesday, August 4, 2021
DEPART FOR HOME (FROM CINCINNATI, OH)
The Historic Charm of the Midwest
During your time in this captivating city, you’ll rediscover what makes Cincinnati an exemplary story of American ingenuity and revitalization. From its scenic location along the Ohio River to its burgeoning art and food scenes, “Cincy” offers something for every family—especially faith-focused travelers. Across the state line, in Kentucky, the acclaimed Ark Experience and Creation Museum transform ancient stories of faith into touchable, unforgettable experiences, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the truth of the Bible.
Ark Encounter
Experience biblical history come to life at this family-friendly, Scripture-based theme park.
Creation Museum
Discover the intersections of science and Scripture as world-class exhibits tell the story of creation.
Quintessential America
Expand your horizons closer to home on your visit to Cincinnati, an iconic American city.
Tour Pricing
Included in the Tour:
- Daily breakfast and two special lunch stops, one at the Ark Encounter and one at the Creation Museum
- Outstanding accommodations
- Travel by private, deluxe, air-conditioned motorcoach
- All porterage, taxes and gratuities
- Entrance fees to all sites
Price |
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$898 |
Tour Only |
*Prices are per person based on double occupancy. Airfare is not included. Taxes and gratuities are included in the advertised rates.
For single occupancy rates and room-share program details, please call prior to booking.
855 741 6341
MON - FRI 8:30AM - 5:00PM (PACIFIC TIME)
BE SURE TO BOOK THROUGH INSPIRATION:This event is exclusive to those who book in advance through Inspiration Cruises & Tours. Booking through a secondary travel agent at the same hotels will not allow you to participate in any event programming.
Conferences
New Testament Landscapes
International Agents
Frequently Asked Questions
855 741 6341
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Kathyrn & John P, Boston, MA
I was specially blessed with our tour guide, Schmulick, his knowledge; patience with our... READ MORE
Marlene Z, Plantation, FL
My husband and I had a wonderful time. The trip was absolutely perfect. We love Israel! We... READ MORE
Virginia P., Pasadena CA
We appreciate all of the details that had to be worked out to make it such an enriching and... READ MORE
Liz C., New York, NY
We are still flying high from the most awesome and inspirational week ever. The Inspiration folks... READ MORE
Kathyrn & John P, Boston, MA
