For faith-based groups, travel can be an opportunity to explore history, engage with sacred texts and experience biblical stories in new ways. From the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibition at the Reagan Presidential Library to immersive biblical theater at Sight and Sound, here are five must-visit destinations that offer profound insights into religious history and traditions.
Dead Sea Scrolls Exhibition at the Reagan Presidential Library and Museum
Simi Valley, California
At the Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, California, the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibition is a rare opportunity to view eight authentic Dead Sea Scrolls, ancient Jewish manuscripts discovered in caves near the Dead Sea. Dating back more than 2,000 years, these papyrus parchments shed light on the Second Temple period and the evolution of biblical texts, making them among the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century.
“This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime exhibition,” said Melissa Giller, chief marketing officer for the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute. “Some artifacts have never left Israel. These artifacts give you this understanding of the culture and history and the religious practices of ancient Judaism and the formation of Christianity.”
The opening gallery delves into the shared heritage of Judaism and Christianity through more than 200 artifacts. Highlights include ancient pottery pieces once used for cooking and storing food, even protecting the sacred scrolls in the Judean caves. A two-ton section of Jerusalem’s Western Wall, believed to have fallen in A.D. 70, is also featured in the exhibition.
Interactive touchscreens allow visitors to explore the origins and significance of these texts in greater depth. The exhibition runs through September 2, with guided tours and group discounts available for parties of 25 or more. An on-site café is open daily for lunch, and a pub welcomes guests on weekends. Groups can take advantage of organized dining options that range from boxed lunches to a sit-down experience that replicates a White House meal.
Truth Traveler
Branson, Missouri and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Opening this summer in both Branson, Missouri, and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, Truth Traveler is a state-of-the-art attraction designed to transport guests back in time to key moments in biblical history, including the Great Flood and the birth of Jesus Christ. Using advanced sensory effects, haptics and motion benches, the experience bring these stories to life for visitors.
Building on the success of A Flood of Reality, a virtual reality-based attraction that debuted in 2020 at the Ark Encounter in Williamstown, Kentucky, Truth Traveler promises an even more dynamic and engaging experience.
“We’re excited to come to both Pigeon Forge and Branson,” said Eddie Lutz, director of sales for Truth Traveler. “These destinations have huge faith-based followings, and we believe this immersive attraction will really connect with these communities.”
In Pigeon Forge, guests can experience The Reality of the Promise, an 18-minute VR ride preceded by an animatronic-enhanced preshow. A 20-minute planetarium show follows that explores the wonders of creation and the universe.
Meanwhile, in Branson, Truth Traveler will be housed in the former Andy Williams Moon River Theater. Instead of a planetarium, guests will continue their journey in a 1,200-seat theater with Fear Not, a 15-minute projection-based show that expands on the VR experience, focusing on the moment God stepped into time as Jesus Christ. Discounts are available for groups of 15 or more.
Museum of the Bible
Washington, D.C.
In Washington, D.C., just two blocks from the National Mall, the Museum of the Bible offers visitors an in-depth look at the history, impact and stories of the Scripture. Spanning 430,000 square feet, this museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts covering 4,000 years of history, including handwritten scrolls, early printed Bibles and even Elvis Presley’s personal Bible.
“We want people to experience the transformative power of the Bible,” said Matthias Walther, chief marketing officer for the Museum of the Bible. “We hope that people don’t just get smarter, but that they experience something that changes the way they look at the world, the way they look at God, the way they live their lives.”
Permanent exhibits include a 30-minute immersive experience that guides guests through narratives of the Hebrew Bible, as well as a collection of global Bible translations. A long-term special exhibit explores the archaeology and history of ancient Israel. The 472-seat World Stage Theater hosts concerts, musicals and guest speakers throughout the year.
Visitors can also tap into premium experiences at the Museum of the Bible. All Creation Sings is a 45-minute immersive worship experience, while Explore! is a nine-minute virtual reality journey that transports guests to 19 biblical sites in Israel, from flying over the Sea of Galilee to climbing the steps of the Temple Mount.
Groups of 10 or more receive special admission rates and can request an arrival host for expedited museum entry. Private group tours are available, including one led by costumed interpreters that takes visitors into a first-century Nazareth village, offering a glimpse into daily life from that era. Boxed lunches can be arranged for groups.
Sight and Sound Theatres
Lancaster, Pennsylvania and Branson, Missouri
Sight and Sound Theatres brings biblical stories to life on stage with large-scale productions in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and Branson, Missouri. The theaters captivate audiences with faith-based performances that feature elaborate sets, original music and live animals.
“Our productions are extremely immersive,” said Kortney Neal, marketing and community relations manager for Sight and Sound. “So when you come to our theater you’re going to feel like you’re part of these biblical productions. We have a 300-foot wrap-around stage, a huge super-talented cast and the sweetest animal friends that will be running through the aisles.”
In Lancaster, audiences can experience “Noah” (March 13–December 31), a dramatic retelling of the flood story. The production features a towering four-story ark, mesmerizing visual effects and more than 40 live animals, from camels and donkeys to skunks and geese.
Meanwhile, in Branson, “David” (March 8–January 3, 2026) follows the rise of the shepherd-turned-king, featuring battle scenes, Philistine soldiers and wild animals, along with dramatic special effects and original music. A highlight of the show is Goliath, a 14-foot-tall animatronic giant weighing 800 pounds. As a special touch, David plays a custom-made harp live on stage.
Museum of Biblical Art
Dallas
The Museum of Biblical Art invites visitors to explore faith, history and artistic expression through its three distinct museums, including the National Center for Jewish Art and the Museum of Holocaust Art, the first institution dedicated to teaching the Holocaust through artwork.
Inside, visitors will find an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, rare books and lithographs that depict biblical stories from both the Old Testament and New Testament. Notable artists such as Salvador Dali, Marc Chagall and Michelangelo offer personal interpretations of religious themes.
Beyond the galleries, the museum’s outdoor spaces offer an equally compelling experience. The Spirit of Abstraction sculpture garden showcases modern industrial and abstract works, while the Via Dolorosa sculpture garden presents larger-than-life bronze statues depicting the 14 Stations of the Cross, offering a visual journey through Christ’s path to crucifixion.
For those eager to dive deeper, self-guided audio tours are available for an additional fee, providing insights into key exhibitions and sculptures. Docent-led tours can be arranged for groups of 15 or more, offering a 15- to 30-minute introduction to the museum’s collections. Discounted group admission is available at $15 per person for access to all three museums. The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
