Hot Louisville, KY Kids Spot: Henry's Ark

If you're looking for something to do with the kids and want to get them out of the house without spending a lot of money, a great Louisville kids spot is Henry's Ark. It's a great outing for the family, especially if you've got little animal lovers who can't get enough of the furry, feathered and four legged.

Henry's ark is an animal preserve on Highway 42 that gives a home to many different types of animals and allows people to come and observe the animals kids wouldn't really get to see in other places in Louisville. Unlike buying tickets for each person in your family to visit the Louisville zoo, Henry's Ark is free to visit and makes a great alternative Louisville kids spot when the funds are low. Although there is no charge for entry, they do take and appreciate donations. The donation box is posted at the entrance to the preserve. Henry's Ark is open to visitors from 10 am to 6 pm on Tuesday through Sunday. Visitors let themselves into the preserve through a turn style.

The laid back atmosphere and interesting animals are what makes Henry's Ark a favorite Louisville kids spot. After visitors let themselves in, the first and most obvious animals are seen lazing about in the large pond. Extending into the pond and attached to a dock, there is a beautiful gazebo where visitors can observe them. Geese swim in between water buffalo, an animal you won't see at the zoo. Moving beyond the water buffalo, you can visit the other animals, but don't be surprised when you suddenly find yourself being followed by a llama or two (my favorite!), who roam the walkways freely. Behind the fences, you'll see animals such as pigmy goats and camels in addition to the water buffalo. Other featured animals include a ring tailed lemur and a hedgehog. On the other side of the path, there is also a coop full of fluffy chickens and roosters.

In addition to being a great Louisville kids spot, Henry's Ark is an important project in preserving a safe place for these animals. Visitor donations go towards the care of the animals, which is an expensive project. In addition to bringing what you can to donate, you will probably want to bring some carrots or old bread to feed to the llamas or geese. When kids are able to interact with the animals, it can make this Louisville kids spot even more fun and interesting for them.