2027 Nauvoo & Missouri LDS Church History Tour with Mick & Diane Smith

Today we begin our inspiring journey through the sacred sites of early Church history as we fly to Kansas City. Upon arrival, we travel to nearby Independence, a city of profound importance in the Restoration and a gathering place for the early Saints.

Our first visit will be to the Independence Visitors’ Center and the nearby Temple Lot, the dedicated site where the Lord commanded a temple to be built in this dispensation. Here we will reflect on the revelations given to the Prophet Joseph Smith and gain a deeper appreciation for the vision of Zion revealed to the early Saints.

We will then enjoy a drive around historic Independence Square, where many important events of early Church history unfolded. During our time here, we will visit the historic Gilbert and Whitney Store and discuss the role of Church leaders and merchants who helped establish the community in Jackson County.

Later this afternoon, we will stop at peaceful LaBenite Park, offering beautiful views of the Missouri River and time to relax and enjoy the scenery after our day of travel and sightseeing.

This evening, we gather together for a special Welcome Dinner as we begin our adventure and become acquainted with our fellow travelers. Following dinner, we check in for our overnight stay at Drury Inn & Suites Kansas City Independence.

This morning we travel into the countryside of northern Missouri to visit the historic Michael Arthur Farm, a peaceful setting connected with the experiences of the early Saints during their years in Missouri. As we explore the area, we will discuss the faith, sacrifice, and perseverance of those who sought to establish Zion amid tremendous hardship and opposition.

From there, we continue to Richmond, where we will visit the inspiring Three Witnesses Monument, honoring Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, and Martin Harris, who bore testimony of the Book of Mormon throughout their lives. We will also stop at the historic Ray County Courthouse, where Church leaders were once brought for hearings during the difficult Missouri persecutions.

After time for lunch, we journey to one of the most sacred and sobering sites of the Restoration, Liberty Jail. Here, the Prophet Joseph Smith and several companions were unjustly imprisoned during the winter of 1838–1839. As we visit this sacred place, we will reflect on the powerful revelations and words of comfort the Prophet received during this time of suffering and trial.

On our return to the hotel, we will make a photo stop at the beautiful Kansas City, Missouri Temple, a striking symbol of faith and devotion in the heart of Missouri.

This evening is at leisure before returning for another overnight stay at Drury Inn & Suites Kansas City Independence.

Today we continue our journey through the sacred landscapes of Church history as we travel north across Missouri to Far West, once intended to become a central gathering place for the Saints. Here we will visit the historic Far West Temple Site, dedicated by Church leaders in 1838 in fulfillment of revelation. As we stand on this sacred ground, we will reflect on the faith and sacrifices of the early Saints who sought to build Zion despite mounting persecution.

We then continue to the solemn site of Haun’s Mill, where one of the darkest tragedies in early Church history occurred. Here we will remember the courage and testimony of the Saints who suffered during the violent persecutions in Missouri and consider the enduring legacy of their faith.

Following lunch together, we travel through the beautiful rolling countryside to Adam-ondi-Ahman, a place of deep spiritual significance in Latter-day Saint history and prophecy. Surrounded by peaceful valleys and sweeping views, we will discuss the revelations connected to this sacred area and the important role it holds in the Lord’s latter-day work.

Later this afternoon, we continue westward into Illinois and arrive in historic Nauvoo. Overnight at The Inn at Old Nauvoo.

This morning we begin our exploration of beautiful historic Nauvoo, once known as the “City of Joseph.” Our day starts with a drive through the historic district as we become acquainted with many of the sacred and significant sites associated with the early Saints and the ministry of the Prophet Joseph Smith.

We will make a brief stop at the peaceful Nauvoo Pioneer Cemetery, where many early Church members and pioneers were laid to rest. Here we will reflect on the sacrifices made by those who helped build Nauvoo and strengthen the Church during some of its most difficult years.

Next, we visit the Nauvoo Visitors’ Center for an introduction to the remarkable history and spiritual legacy of this beloved city on the Mississippi River.

After lunch on your own, the afternoon is free to explore Nauvoo’s many restored historic sites and interactive exhibits. Opportunities may include visits to the Nauvoo Cultural Hall, Browning Gun Shop, Times and Seasons Print Shop, the historic homes of John Taylor and Brigham Young, and the delicious Scovil Bakery. We’ll meet this afternoon for a walk along the Trail of Hope, retracing the path taken by the Saints as they departed Nauvoo in the winter of 1846. As we walk this sacred trail overlooking the Mississippi River, we will reflect on the faith and determination of those who left behind their homes and temple in search of refuge and freedom.

Following dinner together this evening, we will gather as a group for a devotional at the Seventies Hall as we reflect on the faith, sacrifice, and testimony of the early Saints who once called Nauvoo home. Afterward, we return to The Inn at Old Nauvoo for the night

Today begins with a visit to the beautiful Nauvoo Illinois Temple, standing majestically above the Mississippi River as a symbol of faith, sacrifice, and the enduring legacy of the early Saints. Guests will have the opportunity to attend the temple and participate in temple ordinances, subject to the temple schedule and availability. Those not attending the temple may enjoy time to quietly reflect and explore the temple grounds and surrounding historic district.

Following our temple visit and lunch together, we continue our exploration of the life and ministry of the Prophet Joseph Smith with visits to several important historic sites. These include the Joseph Smith Homestead, the Joseph Smith Mansion House, and the historic Red Brick Store, where many important Church meetings and revelations took place. We will also visit the resting places of Joseph Smith, Emma Smith, and Hyrum Smith, reflecting on their lives, testimonies, and sacrifices for the Restoration.

The afternoon offers additional free time to explore more of Nauvoo’s restored historic sites, shop for souvenirs, or perhaps enjoy a peaceful wagon ride through the historic streets of the city.

After an early dinner together this evening, we will walk down to the river for the ‘Sunset by the Mississippi’ performance. You’ll experience some old fashioned, high-energy fun as performers take to the stage in this variety show. You will enjoy this interactive, energetic display of music, stories, songs, and dance celebrating everyday life in Nauvoo, as the sun sets on the Mississippi River. 

Following the performance, we return to The Inn at Old Nauvoo for our final evening in Nauvoo.

This morning we depart Nauvoo and travel east to the solemn and sacred site of Carthage Jail. Here, on June 27, 1844, the Prophet Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum Smith were martyred by a mob while awaiting trial. During our visit, we will tour the jail, including the upstairs room where the martyrdom occurred, and reflect on the final days of the Prophet’s life and testimony. This sacred place stands as a powerful witness of the courage, conviction, and sacrifice of those who gave their lives for the Restoration of the gospel.

Following lunch, we begin our journey to St. Louis for our flights home. As our Church history tour comes to a close, we leave with deeper appreciation for the faith of the early Saints and the sacred events that shaped the Restoration. We hope the experiences shared, testimonies strengthened, and friendships formed during this journey will remain with you long after returning home