Do you have a question about Nauvoo? We are here to help. Look through our list of Frequently Asked Questions below. Need help planning your visit? Want to know more about Nauvoo's storied history? Need to know how to get around when you are here in town? You'll find answers and much more right here! Didn't find what you were looking for?
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning Your Visit
When is the best time to visit Nauvoo?
Nauvoo is a beautiful destination year-round. Many people visit Nauvoo in the summer, especially in July to see the Nauvoo Pageant. Spring and Fall are also highly recommended. The weather is moderate and the town is less crowded. In the Spring everything is in bloom. The flowers are spectacular. In the Fall we have some of our most beloved community events including the Nauvoo Grape Festival and the Nauvoo Pumpkin Walk. Visit our Events page to learn more.
Are there accommodations in Nauvoo?
Yes, Nauvoo offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, homestays and accommodations for camping. We recommend booking your stay in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons like July. You can find these accommodations under Stay.
What are the must-see attractions in Nauvoo?
Some of the top attractions in Nauvoo include the Nauvoo Temple, Historic Nauvoo, Nauvoo State Park, Mississippi River wildlife, the Nauvoo River Walk, local events, eateries, shopping, and more. Check out Experience Nauvoo for more details.
Where can I eat in Nauvoo?
Our town offers a variety of local places to eat. Keep in mind, we are a small town. We will not have the type of variety you would find in a big city, but that is the charm of coming to Nauvoo: we are small and we're proud of it! With that being said, please explore our page, Eat in Nauvoo.
Can I get a Visitor's Guide to Nauvoo?
Yes, we offer a digital download of our Visitor's Guide. This can be found here.
Nauvoo is a beautiful destination year-round. Many people visit Nauvoo in the summer, especially in July to see the Nauvoo Pageant. Spring and Fall are also highly recommended. The weather is moderate and the town is less crowded. In the Spring everything is in bloom. The flowers are spectacular. In the Fall we have some of our most beloved community events including the Nauvoo Grape Festival and the Nauvoo Pumpkin Walk. Visit our Events page to learn more.
Are there accommodations in Nauvoo?
Yes, Nauvoo offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, homestays and accommodations for camping. We recommend booking your stay in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons like July. You can find these accommodations under Stay.
What are the must-see attractions in Nauvoo?
Some of the top attractions in Nauvoo include the Nauvoo Temple, Historic Nauvoo, Nauvoo State Park, Mississippi River wildlife, the Nauvoo River Walk, local events, eateries, shopping, and more. Check out Experience Nauvoo for more details.
Where can I eat in Nauvoo?
Our town offers a variety of local places to eat. Keep in mind, we are a small town. We will not have the type of variety you would find in a big city, but that is the charm of coming to Nauvoo: we are small and we're proud of it! With that being said, please explore our page, Eat in Nauvoo.
Can I get a Visitor's Guide to Nauvoo?
Yes, we offer a digital download of our Visitor's Guide. This can be found here.
Nauvoo's History
What is the history of Nauvoo?
Nauvoo boasts a culturally significant heritage initially marked by the arrival of Sauk and Fox Native American Tribes in the Mississippi Valley. The Native Americans, European explorers, and military surveyors gave rise to the establishment of early settlements named Venus and Commerce during the 1820s and 1830s. In 1839, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, under the leadership of Joseph Smith Jr., sought refuge in Nauvoo due to religious persecution. Their endeavors transformed the marshlands into a thriving city with over 10,000 inhabitants, rivaling Chicago, before they embarked on a westward journey prompted by continued persecution.
During the 1850s, Nauvoo witnessed an ambitious endeavor by the Icarians, a group of predominantly middle-class French idealists led by Etienne Cabet, who aimed to establish a utopian communist society. Meanwhile, German-speaking pioneers played a pivotal role in bestowing stability and cultural preservation upon Nauvoo. They were instrumental in shaping the city's contemporary business district, which endures to this day.
Throughout its storied history, Nauvoo has been enriched by a diverse array of remarkable individuals who have contributed to the city's enduring vibrancy and enduring beauty. Explore our History to learn more.
Is there a visitor center in Nauvoo?
You can visit the Nauvoo Community Center at 1445 Mulholland Street to learn more about what the city has to offer. You can also go to the Historic Sites Visitors Center located at 290 N. Main Street.Explore more options for visitors under Experience Nauvoo.
Can I take tours of historic sites in Nauvoo?
Absolutely! There are guided tours (many of which are free) available for many historic sites in Nauvoo. Check with the visitors centers for tour information or explore options under Experience Nauvoo.
Nauvoo boasts a culturally significant heritage initially marked by the arrival of Sauk and Fox Native American Tribes in the Mississippi Valley. The Native Americans, European explorers, and military surveyors gave rise to the establishment of early settlements named Venus and Commerce during the 1820s and 1830s. In 1839, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, under the leadership of Joseph Smith Jr., sought refuge in Nauvoo due to religious persecution. Their endeavors transformed the marshlands into a thriving city with over 10,000 inhabitants, rivaling Chicago, before they embarked on a westward journey prompted by continued persecution.
During the 1850s, Nauvoo witnessed an ambitious endeavor by the Icarians, a group of predominantly middle-class French idealists led by Etienne Cabet, who aimed to establish a utopian communist society. Meanwhile, German-speaking pioneers played a pivotal role in bestowing stability and cultural preservation upon Nauvoo. They were instrumental in shaping the city's contemporary business district, which endures to this day.
Throughout its storied history, Nauvoo has been enriched by a diverse array of remarkable individuals who have contributed to the city's enduring vibrancy and enduring beauty. Explore our History to learn more.
Is there a visitor center in Nauvoo?
You can visit the Nauvoo Community Center at 1445 Mulholland Street to learn more about what the city has to offer. You can also go to the Historic Sites Visitors Center located at 290 N. Main Street.Explore more options for visitors under Experience Nauvoo.
Can I take tours of historic sites in Nauvoo?
Absolutely! There are guided tours (many of which are free) available for many historic sites in Nauvoo. Check with the visitors centers for tour information or explore options under Experience Nauvoo.
Getting Around
Is it easy to get around Nauvoo?
Nauvoo is a small town and most of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. There's also ample parking available for those who prefer to drive. You can also rent bikes from Cruz Nauvoo and golf carts from Inn at Old Nauvoo. We also have a local Lyft driver. See getting there.
Are there bicycle rentals in Nauvoo?
Yes, you can rent bicycles in Nauvoo to explore the town and its scenic surroundings. Biking is a popular way to see the sights. Contact Cruz Nauvoo for more information.
Can I access Nauvoo by public transportation?
Nauvoo is a small town and public transportation options are limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or carpool with other members from your traveling group. You can travel to nearby towns by train as long as you arrange for someone to pick you up from the train station and bring you to Nauvoo. Once you are in Nauvoo, you can walk, bike, or rent a golf cart.
Trains: Amtrak services the following cities in the Nauvoo area: Burlington, IA (BRL), Ft. Madison, IA (FMD), Galesburg, IL (GBB), Macomb, IL (MAC) and Quincy, IL (QCY). For more information, call Amtrak at 800-USA-RAIL or go to www.amtrak.com.
How do I get to Nauvoo?
The best way to travel to Nauvoo depends on your starting location and personal preferences. Here are some common travel options:
By Car: Nauvoo is located in western Illinois, not far from major highways like I-80 and I-55. Some nearby towns to Nauvoo include: Quincy, Illinois; Keokuk, Iowa; Fort Madison, Iowa; Burlington, Iowa; and Macomb, Illinois.
By Air: The nearest major airport to Nauvoo is the Quad City International Airport (MLI), located in Moline, Illinois. From there, you can rent a car and drive to Nauvoo, which is approximately a 2-hour drive. Alternatively, you can arrange for a shuttle or taxi service.
Other airports close to Nauvoo include: Baldwin Field at Quincy, IL (UIN); Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) at Cedar Rapids, IA; Greater Peoria Regional at Peoria, IL (PIA); Southeast Iowa Regional at Burlington, IA (BRL); Lambert-St. Louis at St. Louis, MO (STL); and O'Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW) at Chicago, IL.
By Bus: Some bus companies, such as Greyhound, offer routes to cities near Nauvoo, like Quincy, Illinois. Once you arrive in a nearby city, you can arrange for local transportation to Nauvoo.
By Train: Amtrak operates train services to some cities in Illinois. You can take a train to a nearby city and then use other transportation options like buses or rental cars to reach Nauvoo. Amtrak services the following cities in the Nauvoo area: Burlington, IA (BRL), Ft. Madison, IA (FMD), Galesburg, IL (GBB), Macomb, IL (MAC) and Quincy, IL (QCY). For more information, call Amtrak at 800-USA-RAIL or go to www.amtrak.com.
By Tour: Many organized tours, especially for those interested in the history of Nauvoo and the LDS Church, are available. These tours often include transportation, guides, and visits to key historical sites in Nauvoo.
Disclaimer: Always check the latest travel information, routes, and transportation options before planning your trip, as they may change over time. The best way to travel to Nauvoo will also depend on your individual circumstances and preferences.
Nauvoo is a small town and most of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. There's also ample parking available for those who prefer to drive. You can also rent bikes from Cruz Nauvoo and golf carts from Inn at Old Nauvoo. We also have a local Lyft driver. See getting there.
Are there bicycle rentals in Nauvoo?
Yes, you can rent bicycles in Nauvoo to explore the town and its scenic surroundings. Biking is a popular way to see the sights. Contact Cruz Nauvoo for more information.
Can I access Nauvoo by public transportation?
Nauvoo is a small town and public transportation options are limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or carpool with other members from your traveling group. You can travel to nearby towns by train as long as you arrange for someone to pick you up from the train station and bring you to Nauvoo. Once you are in Nauvoo, you can walk, bike, or rent a golf cart.
Trains: Amtrak services the following cities in the Nauvoo area: Burlington, IA (BRL), Ft. Madison, IA (FMD), Galesburg, IL (GBB), Macomb, IL (MAC) and Quincy, IL (QCY). For more information, call Amtrak at 800-USA-RAIL or go to www.amtrak.com.
How do I get to Nauvoo?
The best way to travel to Nauvoo depends on your starting location and personal preferences. Here are some common travel options:
By Car: Nauvoo is located in western Illinois, not far from major highways like I-80 and I-55. Some nearby towns to Nauvoo include: Quincy, Illinois; Keokuk, Iowa; Fort Madison, Iowa; Burlington, Iowa; and Macomb, Illinois.
By Air: The nearest major airport to Nauvoo is the Quad City International Airport (MLI), located in Moline, Illinois. From there, you can rent a car and drive to Nauvoo, which is approximately a 2-hour drive. Alternatively, you can arrange for a shuttle or taxi service.
Other airports close to Nauvoo include: Baldwin Field at Quincy, IL (UIN); Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) at Cedar Rapids, IA; Greater Peoria Regional at Peoria, IL (PIA); Southeast Iowa Regional at Burlington, IA (BRL); Lambert-St. Louis at St. Louis, MO (STL); and O'Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW) at Chicago, IL.
By Bus: Some bus companies, such as Greyhound, offer routes to cities near Nauvoo, like Quincy, Illinois. Once you arrive in a nearby city, you can arrange for local transportation to Nauvoo.
By Train: Amtrak operates train services to some cities in Illinois. You can take a train to a nearby city and then use other transportation options like buses or rental cars to reach Nauvoo. Amtrak services the following cities in the Nauvoo area: Burlington, IA (BRL), Ft. Madison, IA (FMD), Galesburg, IL (GBB), Macomb, IL (MAC) and Quincy, IL (QCY). For more information, call Amtrak at 800-USA-RAIL or go to www.amtrak.com.
By Tour: Many organized tours, especially for those interested in the history of Nauvoo and the LDS Church, are available. These tours often include transportation, guides, and visits to key historical sites in Nauvoo.
Disclaimer: Always check the latest travel information, routes, and transportation options before planning your trip, as they may change over time. The best way to travel to Nauvoo will also depend on your individual circumstances and preferences.
Nauvoo Attractions
What is the Nauvoo Pageant?
The Nauvoo Pageant is an annual outdoor theatrical production that takes place for four weeks every summer in Nauvoo, Illinois, and is sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). The pageant depicts the history of the early Latter-day Saint settlers in Nauvoo during the 1840s with a large cast in a vibrant production of colorful song and dance.
The Pageant also includes a fair featuring live music and dancing, interactive games, and concessions. You can find more information about the Nauvoo Pageant, including a FAQ page, at https://nauvoopageant.org/
What are the best events to attend in Nauvoo?
Our most popular events include Nauvoo Untold Stories in February, Memorial Day Picnic at the City Park, the Nauvoo & British Pageants in July and August, French Heritage Days and the Independence Day celebration on Temple Hill in July, the Nauvoo Grape Festival & Festival on Wheels Car Show on Labor Day weekend, Oktoberfest & Pumpkin Walk the last weekend of October, and the Christmas Walk at Historic Nauvoo in December. You can learn more on our Events page.
The Nauvoo Pageant is an annual outdoor theatrical production that takes place for four weeks every summer in Nauvoo, Illinois, and is sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). The pageant depicts the history of the early Latter-day Saint settlers in Nauvoo during the 1840s with a large cast in a vibrant production of colorful song and dance.
The Pageant also includes a fair featuring live music and dancing, interactive games, and concessions. You can find more information about the Nauvoo Pageant, including a FAQ page, at https://nauvoopageant.org/
What are the best events to attend in Nauvoo?
Our most popular events include Nauvoo Untold Stories in February, Memorial Day Picnic at the City Park, the Nauvoo & British Pageants in July and August, French Heritage Days and the Independence Day celebration on Temple Hill in July, the Nauvoo Grape Festival & Festival on Wheels Car Show on Labor Day weekend, Oktoberfest & Pumpkin Walk the last weekend of October, and the Christmas Walk at Historic Nauvoo in December. You can learn more on our Events page.
Additional Information
Is BeautifulNauvoo.com affiliated with any religious organization?
No, BeautifulNauvoo.com is owned and operated by the City of Nauvoo. The website was created to promote Nauvoo as a tourist destination and provide information about its history, attractions, city services, and culture. We are not affiliated with any religious organization.
How can I contribute to BeautifulNauvoo.com?
If you have information, ideas, stories, or photos related to Nauvoo that you'd like to share, please Contact Us. We welcome contributions from the Nauvoo community and visitors.
Is Nauvoo a family-friendly destination?
Yes, Nauvoo is a family-friendly destination with activities and attractions suitable for all ages. It's a great place for family vacations and educational experiences.
How can I contact BeautifulNauvoo.com?
You can reach out to us through our Contact page or by following us on our social media accounts.
Disclaimer
Please note that the information on BeautifulNauvoo.com is subject to change. We recommend checking with specific attractions and accommodations for the most up-to-date details and availability.
No, BeautifulNauvoo.com is owned and operated by the City of Nauvoo. The website was created to promote Nauvoo as a tourist destination and provide information about its history, attractions, city services, and culture. We are not affiliated with any religious organization.
How can I contribute to BeautifulNauvoo.com?
If you have information, ideas, stories, or photos related to Nauvoo that you'd like to share, please Contact Us. We welcome contributions from the Nauvoo community and visitors.
Is Nauvoo a family-friendly destination?
Yes, Nauvoo is a family-friendly destination with activities and attractions suitable for all ages. It's a great place for family vacations and educational experiences.
How can I contact BeautifulNauvoo.com?
You can reach out to us through our Contact page or by following us on our social media accounts.
Disclaimer
Please note that the information on BeautifulNauvoo.com is subject to change. We recommend checking with specific attractions and accommodations for the most up-to-date details and availability.