Q. Are Flights Included in the Price?

Most tour and cruise packages are sold as “Land Only”. This allows you the freedom to purchase tickets on your preferred airline and from your home city. We may offer group flights depending on the tour.

Q. Can Frequent Flyer Miles be Used to Join a Tour?

Yes! Once the frequent flyer reservations have been confirmed and ticketed by the airline, please provide a copy of the itinerary to us to ensure that proper transfer arrangements are made. We regret that we cannot assist with making frequent flyer reservations.

Q. Is a Cash Discount Available?

Yes! If you want to save some money, this is the ideal option. All reservations paid for by check or cash will receive a discount. The amount varies by tour and will be listed on the web-site.

Q. Are Other Discounts Available?

Yes! If you are a Deseret Book Platinum Club member an additional discount may be available. There may be Expo discounts or other promotional discounts offered from time to time. However, only one discount per person will apply with the exception of the cash discount. Please call for details.

Q. Should I Purchase Travel Insurance?

Because unforeseen circumstances may arise, we strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance. This insurance will cover you in case you need to cancel a tour after final payment has been made. Certain restrictions apply.

Q. Is Tipping Included in the Price?

Some tours do include gratuities for the local guides and bus drivers and others do not. Please refer to the “What is Included” section for your specific trip to find out.

Q. What if I Have a Medical Condition or Physical Disability?

Please note that many of these tours require that participants be in good physical and mental health. You must be capable, without assistance, of walking a minimum of one mile over uneven terrain and of climbing stairs that may not have handrails. Participants should have sufficient stamina to keep pace with an active group of travelers on long days of touring. Anyone with disabilities should have a travel companion who is willing and capable of assisting. Please let us know if you fall into this category. Please view our full Mobility Policy here.

Q. Can I Bring My Children on the Tour?

In order for the enjoyment of all tour participants, we generally request that children be a minimum of 8 years old to participate on the tour. Parents should be advised that they may be the only youth on the tour. Some tours may be designed with family travel in mind and will be advertised as such. Please contact us if you have any questions.

Q. What Documentation Will be Needed?

All U.S. citizens are required to have a current passport valid for six months beyond the return date if the trip is international. In some cases a visa may also be required. For tours wholly within the United States a valid Drivers License is acceptable documentation. Please remember that your first and last name on your ticket must match your passport or drivers license. If you are not a U.S. citizen, please call our office for assistance.

Q. When is Final Payment Due?

The final payment for an international tour is due 90 days prior to departure and for domestic tours it is due 60 days prior to departure. Full payment is required for new reservations received within the final payment period.

Q. What Happens if I Need to Cancel My Tour?

Per person cancellation fees are based on the date we receive notice from you. For tours in the United States: Cancellations within 7 days of booking (if not within final payment date): full deposit refunded. Cancellations after the grace period ends to 91 days prior to departure: $125 will be refunded (50% of tour deposit) Cancellations from 90 to 61 days prior to departure: no refund of deposit Full payment due: 60 days prior to departure. Cancellations made 59 days or less prior to departure: no refund. Cancellations made on the day of departure: no refund Cancellation by Morris Murdock Escorted Tours: full refund. No refund for unused portions of the tour, including but not limited to, missed meals, hotel nights, and sightseeing. For all other tours including international tours and cruises: Cancellations within 7 days of booking (if not within final payment date): full deposit refunded. Cancellations after the grace period ends to 91 days prior to departure: $250 refund (50% of tour deposit) Full payment due: 90 days prior to departure. Cancellations made 89 days or less prior to departure: no refund Cancellations made on the day of departure: no refund Cancellation by Morris Murdock Escorted Tours: full refund. No refund for unused portions of the tour, including but not limited to, missed meals, hotel nights, and sightseeing. Will I receive a refund? The refund amount, if any, will be paid according to the cancellation schedule listed above. We highly recommend travel insurance.

Q. What Should I Pack?

Since each tour is different, please refer to the individual tour recommendations on the web-site. Generally speaking, you will want to pack comfortable walking shoes, slacks and shirts that can be easily layered should there be a change in temperature. Be sure pack an extra change of clothing, camera and prescription medicines in your carry on bag.

Q. How Much Luggage Can I Take?

Carry-on: Most airlines permit each passenger to take one carry-on bag, total dimensions (22"+ 14"+ 9") of which must not exceed 45 inches and which cannot weigh more than 22 lbs., and one additional personal carry-on item, such as a purse or briefcase/laptop case; all carry-on items must fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead compartment. Checked: Please check with your airline to confirm the current luggage limitations and any applicable fees. Most carriers charge a fee for any checked bags, with a discount if this is done ahead of time online. Overweight: Please note that many airlines charge significant fees for overweight or oversized luggage. Be sure that all baggage and personal belongings are properly insured. Items such as medications, jewelry, or other valuables, breakable or perishable items, and important documents should be hand-carried. Responsibility will not be assumed by the airline for loss of or damage to these items.

Q. What Items Can I Carry-On?

Due to recent security issues on flights coming into the United States, the Transportation Security Administration has updated its aviation security measures. For an up-to-date list of items banned from carry-on luggage and items you can carry on, please visit: www.tsa.gov. **Please see our complete Terms and Conditions for more information

2026 Fall Nauvoo and Branson Escape Tour with Kay Godfrey

Available Packages

Friday
September 11, 2026

Saturday
September 19, 2026

$2389

Join Morris Murdock Escorted Tours and historian Kay Godfrey as you experience Liberty Jail, Far West, Adam-Ondi-Ahman, Carthage Jail, and Nauvoo and catch the vision of the Prophet Joseph Smith as you experience the trials and triumphs that he and early saints experienced during the early years of the church.

Overview

Itinerary

Includes

Dates

Director

Pricing

Your Love and Testimony For the Prophet Will Never Be the Same!

Top off these unforgettable locations with a trip to Branson, MO and watch the best performances Branson has to offer. This is a tour you truly don’t want to miss.

While other companies take 2 and 3 buses on their tours, ours has a 1-bus guarantee that ensures you have an intimate experience at the sites as well as with your educator. It allows your group to bond as a family and make fast friends with those you are traveling with. You will not come home wishing you had more!

Please see our cancellation policy:

If a participant needs to cancel their reservation, written notice must be provided. Cancellations within seven calendar days of booking (if not past the final payment date) will receive a full refund, excluding airfares, which follow the airline’s policy. Cancellations after the seven-day grace period incur a 50% penalty on the deposit until the final payment date, and cancellations after the final payment date are non-refundable, including for unused portions of the tour.

*Please note that while the physical activity on this tour (walking distances) is not significant, the days are full of touring from breakfast to dinner time with “down-time” only in the evening.

Tour ID #9226I11

To book this tour contact your favorite Morris Columbus Travel Advisor or the Group Tour Manager listed below:

Sarah Wangsgard, Tour Manager
Tel: (801) 483-6473

Highlights

Hosted by Kay Godfrey for the whole tour along with local guides
1 tour-bus experience for the whole tour!
Licensed, insured, and bonded travel agency with 65 years of experience!! It matters who you travel with!
Meals as outlined in the itinerary

Day 1 :

Friday, September 11, 2026 - Salt Lake City - Kansas City

Day 2 :

Saturday, September 12, 2026 - Liberty Jail - Richmond

This morning we visit the Eight Witness Monument and continue onto Liberty Jail, where, during the winter of 1838-29, Joseph Smith was imprisoned. After lunch (lunch on your own) some of the highlights will be Rush Creek, Big and Little Fishing River Miracle, David Whitmer’s Home, Richmond Jail, Vacant Log House, Three Witness Monument, Mound Grove Cemetery and Missouri River Crossing.

Overnight at the Fairfield Inn and Suites.

Meals : Breakfast

Day 3 :

Sunday, September 13, 2026 - Far West - Adam-ondi-Ahman - Nauvoo

Today we will get to spend our Sabbath at some very sacred sites. Our touring today will begin as we drive to Far West Temple site to see the corner stones that were placed and the plaques that explain the importance of this site. Our next stop is Adam-ondi-Ahman to see where Adam and Eve lived after the Garden of Eden and we will enjoy a picnic lunch.

After our stop we will continue on to Hannibal, Missouri, where Mark Twain shared his love for this riverboat town and world. We will board the Mississippi Queen river boat to enjoy a dinner cruise on the Mississippi. After a short drive up river we arrive in Nauvoo!! Overnight at the Nauvoo Family Inn & Suites.

Overnight at the Nauvoo Family Inn & Suites.

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 :

Monday, September 14, 2026 - Nauvoo

We will have breakfast at the hotel this morning before we begin our adventure into Nauvoo-The City Beautiful. We will start at the LDS Visitors Center where we can enjoy the tribute Gardens with its many statues honoring women. We will view the new film “Joseph Smith Prophet of the Restoration” to get us ready to see the city our pioneer ancestors built from a swamp.

After lunch, we will continue our tour at the Joseph Smith homestead, the Mansion House, the Red Brick Store, and the gravesite of Joseph, Emma, Hyrum, and other family members that are buried there. We will have time to walk the Trail of Hope and read excerpts from personal diaries of the Saints. Your understanding will increase as you read about the hardships and struggles, they went through. Tonight, the balance of the evening is at your leisure, we will have dinner at the hotel. This is a great time to take a walk down to the temple for some night photos.

Overnight at the Nauvoo Family Inn & Suites.

Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 :

Tuesday, September 15, 2026 - Nauvoo

Our day begins with a morning Temple Session for those who would like to attend (pending individual appointments). After the temple, we will go back to the hotel to change our clothes and give you time to have lunch and shop. We will then meet and drive to the old pioneer cemetery where you can see the names and headstones of those who made it to Nauvoo, but not on with the Saints into the Utah Valley. From here we will return to the restored buildings of Old Nauvoo, and you will have time to wander around and visit the different homes and buildings that have been restored. Places to make sure not to miss are Time and Seasons Office, the Browning Gun, and Blacksmith Shop to only name a few, and be sure to see the homes of Brigham Young, Wilford Woodruff, and Heber C. Kimball!!

Overnight at the Nauvoo Family Inn & Suites.

Day 6 :

Wednesday, September 16, 2026 - Nauvoo, IL - Carthage, IL - Branson, MO - SIX Show

This morning we bid farewell to Nauvoo and depart for Carthage. Here we will tour the jail where the Prophet Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum were martyred.

We will then travel to Branson, Mo, America’s #1 Entertainment destination in the U.S.A. Dinner tonight will be at the famed Lamberts restaurant, “home of the thrown rolls”, REALLY!

To start off our Branson entertainment we are off to see the SIX Show. SIX is a powerhouse “Vocal Band” featuring real brothers who take musical entertainment to a whole new level. Critically acclaimed and dubbed “an orchestra of human voices” and “masters of showmanship”, these multi talented brothers don’t use an instruments, but you’ll think you’re hearing them. True pioneers of contemporary a cappella, they utilize the palpable rhythmic bass, driving beatbox style percussion, and impeccable vocal blend that they’ve been developing since they were children.

Overnight at the Best Western Music Capital Inn

Meals : Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7 :

Thursday, September 17, 2026 - John Denver Tribute Show, Branson Belle Dinner Cruise with show, The Dutton’s

This morning get ready for the John Denver Tribute Show. Be captivated by one of Branson’s most awarded entertainers, James Garrett, formerly with the award-winning group “The Kendall’s” best known for “Heaven’s Just a Sin Away”. Enjoy singing along to all of John Denver’s best-loved hits . . . including “Country Roads,” “Rocky Mountain High,” and “Annie’s Song.” James shares stories of Denver’s life and experiences from a firsthand perspective. Come see why A Tribute to John has won “Best Morning Show in Branson” five times.

After a lunch break and some shopping time we will board the Showboat Branson Belle for a dinner Cruise. During your journey aboard this majestic 1890s-style paddle wheeler, you’ll cruise the beautiful waters of Branson’s Table Rock Lake and see surrounding Ozarks scenery. You’ll savor a delicious three-course meal prepared fresh for you in the ship’s galley. Set sail for adventure on the open waters of Table Rock Lake with live music, dancing, comedy, magic, a meal and more! Join the Showboat’s master of ceremonies as he presents the newest sensation in live stage performance. Enjoy the power of music from the 60s to today performed by a talented troupe of singers alongside our featured 4-piece band. Relive great soundtrack movie moments for a throwback journey to the days of Risky Business, Titanic and Ghostbusters. Plus, witness the must-see spectacle of rhythm and footwork from the toe-tapping Showboat Dancers.

Later this evening we get to enjoy the Dutton’s Show. The Dutton’s are a family of three generations of musical performers. Committed to family appropriate, quality entertainment. The Dutton’s are international touring and recording artists who perform bluegrass to classical music and everything in between. Their show features a variety of instruments, including violin, guitar, bass, viola, banjo, mandolin, keyboard, harmonica, and drums, among others. The Dutton’s have garnered awards and recognition in national fiddling contests, classical violin competitions, and as studio musicians.

Overnight at the Best Western Music Capital Inn

Meals : Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8 :

Friday, September 18, 2026 - City Tour, Hughes Music Show, David Show

This morning we will have a step on guide who will show you around Branson and tell you some of the history of Branson. Tour includes Table Rock Dam, the scenic overlook and the College of the Ozarks.

After a lunch break we will see the Hughes Music Show. It is a culmination of over 40 years of experience and effort. It is the biggest production The Hughes Brothers Theatre has ever seen. A cast of 50 uniquely talented entertainers brings you an experience you can’t miss. These actors, dancers, comedians, instrumentalists, and singers of all styles will work their way into your hearts forever. The Hughes Music Show is astonishing audiences with its crisp harmonies, explosive energy, impressive instrumentals, and multi-layered musical arrangements. The show will astound you as you hear the best in pop, rock, R&B, country, classical, Broadway, patriotic, and even gospel music. It’s a big list, but it’s also a big show. And that’s a promise!

After dinner we will be totally entertained by the production of David. Master Poet. Fearless Warrior. Anointed King. The production focuses on the biblical story of David and Goliath. From still waters to shadowed valleys, David’s ascent to the throne is filled with towering giants, wild animals, and Philistine soldiers. After unprecedented victories lead to devastating failures, this passionate warrior will face the biggest battle of all: the one within himself. Experience one of the most legendary Bible stories as it comes to life with spectacular special effects, massive sets, and live animals in this brand-new original stage production.

Overnight at the Best Western Music Capital Inn.

Meals : Breakfast, Dinner

Day 9 :

Saturday, September 13, 2025 - Branson, MO - Kansas City, MO - Salt Lake City, UT

After breakfast this morning, we will board our motorcoach to travel back towards Kansas City with memories to last a lifetime.

Meals : Breakfast

About Kay Godfrey

Kay Godfrey is a period historian of the life of the prophet Joseph Smith.

He is a graduate of Brigham Young University. He holds degrees in Historic Archaeology and Anthropology as well as Law Enforcement and Justice Administration.

He has studied and researched the life of the Prophet Joseph Smith for over 45 years. He has done extensive “on-site” research in New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois and Missouri. He has spoken to the issue of the “Trials of the Prophet Joseph” at numerous symposiums in Nauvoo, Il. and Independence, Mo. He has edited books and videos for various authors on the historical accuracy of materials pertaining to Joseph Smith. Kay serves on numerous boards and foundations such as Ancient American Archaeology, Missouri Mormon Frontier Foundation, the Foundation for Indigenous Research and Mormonism and the Nauvoo, Illinois, and Topsfield, Massachusetts Historical Societies.

Kay lectures regularly to missionaries on the topic of modern-day restoration, most recently speaking to the missionaries and investigators of the New Hampshire Manchester, Oklahoma Tulsa and Portland Oregon Missions. He has conducted firesides from Calgary, Canada to Fort Smith, Arkansas.

He has authored a comprehensive four-part DVD presentation detailing the life of Joseph Smith. This history is entitled: “Following the Footsteps of Joseph”. Kay’s material has been requested by such institutions as Oberlin College Archives, (Oberlin, Ohio) to be filed with the Spaulding Manuscript documents, Brigham Young University, in celebration of the bi-centennial celebration of Joseph Smith’s birth, the Joseph Smith Memorial Site, (Sharon, Vermont) as a teaching tool for new missionary couples and the archives department of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Kay has been conducting domestic Church History tours for Morris Murdock and Legacy Travel since 1990. He also takes groups to Israel and European (Apostle) destinations. He speaks Hebrew and can read Egyptian hieroglyphs. His wife, Debra speaks French. He has served in numerous ward and stake callings including the High Council of the Meridian South Stake, Meridian, Idaho.

Kay and his wife Debra recently served a mission to Sharon, Vermont, where they were involved in numerous historical preservation endeavors including having secured permission from Topsfield, MA, to have a monument erected in Pine Grove Cemetery as a tribute to five generations of the Topsfield Smiths.

Kay has been asked by LDS Media to present a series of 25 podcast on the history and life of Joseph Smith. This podcast cast is to enhance the continuing study of the Doctrine and Covenants and can be viewed at www.comefollowme2021.com or on YouTube, search Kay Godfrey Podcast.

Kay retired in 2012 after serving 35 years with the BSA. He retired as Director of Development/Finance, Support Services, and Public Relations for the Great Salt Lake Council, Boy Scouts of America. He and his wife, Debra, live in Kaysville, Utah, and are the parents of five children. Kay is dedicated to sharing his knowledge, research, and testimony with groups of all ages. If you would like to schedule Kay as a speaker or have questions regarding the Prophet Joseph Smith please contact him at footstepsofjoseph@gmail.com.

2026 Fall Nauvoo and Branson Escape Tour with Kay Godfrey

Join Us for The Adventure of a Lifetime!

Overview

Itinerary

Includes

Dates

Director

Pricing

Your Love and Testimony For the Prophet Will Never Be the Same!

Highlights

Join Us for The Adventure of a Lifetime!

About Kay Godfrey

Pricing Information

Trip Starting Countdown

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Join Us for The Adventure of a Lifetime!

Your Love and Testimony For the Prophet Will Never Be the Same!

Highlights

Join Us for The Adventure of a Lifetime!

About Kay Godfrey

Pricing Information

Trip Starting Countdown

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