Philadelphia

Depart our homes for Philadelphia. On our way to dinner and our hotel, we see our first glimpse of this historical city as we tie in the freedoms that made the Restoration possible. Accommodations are at Courtyard by Marriott.

Philadelphia - Allentown

This morning we begin our exciting tour of Philadelphia. We see Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Next is free time to see the grave site of Benjamin Franklin, the first bank of the United States, and Carpenter’s Hall. Following lunch we travel to Washington Crossing and then to Valley Forge National Historic Park.  Accommodations are at the Holiday Inn.

Harmony - Fayette - Palmyra

Today, en route to Palmyra,  we visit the Priesthood Restoration Site in Susquehanna County, PA. Here we see the new visitor’s center and we are able to explore the place where Joseph and Emma Smith lived from 1827 to 1830. Next we travel to the Peter Whitmer Farm where the Church was organized on April 6, 1830.  Accommodations for two nights are at Woodcliff Hotel.

Palmyra

Following Sacrament meeting we spend time in the Sacred Grove and reflect on the special events that took place here. Next we visit the restored home and farm of Joseph Smith, Sr., including the restored log cabin where the Smith family lived at the time of the first vision and angel Moroni’s visit to the Prophet. We see the Palmyra Temple and talk about the importance of this modern-day temple in this historic and sacred place. Next, we see the Grandin Printing Complex where the first Book of Mormon was printed and then the grave site of Alvin Smith, eldest brother of Joseph Smith.

Niagara Falls - Kirtland

Today we continue our journey to Niagara Falls, the oldest state park in the USA. We board the Maid of the Mist boat which passes directly in front of the falls and enters Horseshoe Basin. This is a not to be missed activity! After free time for lunch and shopping, we travel to Kirtland, OH. Accommodations for two nights are at Holiday Inn.

Kirtland

We depart for Hiram, OH to visit the John Johnson Farm. It was at the Johnson farm that Joseph Smith received the vision of the three degrees of glory. Next we see the Temple Quarry and enjoy a picnic lunch. We spend the afternoon visiting the Morley Farm and the historic Kirtland village, including the LDS Visitor’s Center, Whitney Home and Store, Johnson Inn, Ashery, and Sawmill.

Kirtland - Home

This morning we visit the Kirtland Temple where the Lord, Himself, appeared, as did Moses, Elias, Elijah, and numerous other angels. We conclude our tour with a late afternoon flight home and a better appreciation for the life of the Prophet Joseph and the early saints.