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2026 Fall Nauvoo and Branson Escape Tour with Kay Godfrey

9 Days 8 Nights

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.

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

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.

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

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

Cost Includes

  • 1 tour-bus size experience for the whole tour
  • Hotel accommodations in Kansas City, Nauvoo and Branson
  • Morris Murdock escort/historian Kay Godfrey
  • Meals as outlined in itinerary
  • Ground transportation via luxury air-conditioned motor-coaches
  • Tips for hotels and provided meals outlines in itinerary
  • All sightseeing and group transfers as outlined in itinerary
  • Travel document package
  • Whisper headset's throughout tour so you don't miss a thing
  • 6 AMAZING shows with prime seats! *coming soon!
  • Guided city tour of old and new Branson

Cost Excludes

  • Airfare to Kansas City from your home city. Group air TBA
  • Travel Insurance (highly recommended!)
  • Meals other than those specified
  • Tips for Director, local guides and bus driver
  • Items of a personal nature

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.

Pricing Information

Optional Pricing:

  • Double Occupancy: $2389.00 per person (2 people sharing a room)
  • Triple Occupancy: $2289.00 per person (3 people sharing a room)
  • Quad Occupancy: $2189.00 per person (4 people sharing a room)
  • Single Occupancy: $2889.00 (private room)

Payment Information:

  • The deposit is $250 per person
  • CASH DISCOUNT of $55 per person offered! Please inquire for more details!
  • Final payment is due July 7, 2026
  • Tour price is based on 25 travelers 

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.

Morris Murdock Escorted Tours has been fulfilling travel dreams for our clients for over 65 years. Morris Murdock Escorted Tours, was the first tour operator to offer LDS faith-based and Church History escorted tours. Since then, we have expanded our offerings to include cruises, humanitarian, shopping and other types of tours with hand-picked tour guides and tour directors that are experts in their field or celebrities with an attachment to the destination or tour's theme.

(800) 809-9910
563 W 500 S, Suite #180, Bountiful, UT 84010

groups@morrismurdock.com

See it online https://mmetours.com/trip/2026-fall-nauvoo-and-branson-escape-tour-with-kay-godfrey/