This is an interesting place. I have been curious about Mormonism from cultural perspective for some time, and when I had some time off a couple years ago decided to take a trip to Nauvoo to visit this early Mormon settlement. When I was here, it was the middle of the week, so there were few people wandering around. Officially, the Community of Christ--an off-shoot of the Mormon faith, established after the murder of Joseph Smith and the second-largest LDS denomination--is the organization that established the Joseph Smith Historic Site. However, as you're walking through the buildings that are the property of the CoC, you'll also be able to walk around and amongst the locations that are under the ownership of the LDS church. The signage is different so you'll be able to tell what is what, but some of these buildings are literally next door to one another so you won't have to drive from one site to the next. It was interesting to learn about some of the history at places like the blacksmith shop and the Seventies Hall. I didn't feel too much like I was being proselytized to, especially when in a larger group of folks. And you'll almost certainly be in and amongst members of the faith if you visit here. Also very important is that some of these homes are privately owned, and are marked as such, so remember to be respectful. read more

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This was a destination on a pretty cool road trip I took with some friends in the summer. First heard about Nauvoo as being the holiest land for the Mormon faith; that people all the way from the Phillipines make their pilgrimdge here, to this small river city along the mighty Mississippi. (Which warranted a road trip out of curiosity) We went here at the end of summer. This part of Illinois is really something else. Truly unique. The settlement is prestine, peaceful, and one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen in America; we were amazingly suprised, and really not prepared to behold the outstanding beauty of this establishment. The restoration project is incredible. The entire settlement is restored to the old times of the 1800's, and is surrounded by a phenomenal landscaping project; with scores of flowers found all about the property. The Former Quarters of Joseph Smith's family sit nestled along the Mississippi River, with ancient Trees that embrace the home; and it is here where the prophet Joseph Smith is buried. It's as though you have entered heaven. Nauvoo, is a just another delightful slice of Americana for you to discover how amazingly awesome this country is! I highly recommend visiting Nauvoo. read more

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Stopped here to look at the cute little houses that have been lovingly restored. They truly show how people lived there once upon a time. Though I'm interested in the history of the area, I did feel a little intimidated by the constant LDS religious references. I really wanted to see the buildings, but I wasn't interested in converting. We had intended to walk through many of the buildings, but after two extended lectures/preaching sessions we decided to check out the outside of the buildings and be done with it. (The lectures were educational and everyone was friendly). The temple is gorgeous and worthy of a drive past (only LDS members can enter). Unless you want to convert, I recommend avoiding any suit dressed church members in town. Definitely worth a trip, just keep in mind that this is, first and foremost, an LDS pilgrimage location. read more

Went here on my first weekend trip, as part of a just pick up and go road trip, with my now ex. This is a very interesting city, definitely small. I mean, I've never felt so removed from society in my life. But the temple was very awesome. Nauvoo and the surrounding areas are pretty neat. But stock up on gas, and make sure your phone has great wifi. Try this place out once in your life, won't ya?! read more

What a wondrous place this is. I'm not Mormon but I went away from Nauvoo with the highest respect for the Mormon religion and people. I've never seen a living history historical site like this. Where to start?The village is set in the most glorious location along the Missisippi, with the temple and the town of Nauvoo on the bluffs above. The visitors' center with the interesting introductory film and the exhibits were a wonderful way to start my tour. Then came a wagon ride all over the grounds. Our guide was a Sister Romney ( I didn't ask the obvious because I'm sure she hears it all day.) She was a wonderful help in understanding the history and significance of the Nauvoo settlement. The site is staffed mainly by Mormon retirees who take on the roles of the townspeople of old Nauvoo. Everywhere we went we were greeted with hearty hellos and friendly waves. Sister Romney teared up when we came in sight of the temple, which was destroyed when the Mormons were run out of Illinois, but has now been rebuilt. It was a majestic sight. After the wagon ride, I walked the grounds, admired the restored buildings, and toured the pioneer crafts museum. A lady who was working a loom pressed a Book of Mormon into my hands and told me of how the Church and her faith had transformed her life. Not pushy at all, just touchingly sincere. In the evening I attended a theatrical program. The cast was the same group of retirees who I had seen earlier. It was a lot of fun, a little corny but who cares? Good family entertainment. I was there on a weekday in April and was surprised to see that there were huge crowds of people. When I asked about it I was told that it was spring break in Salt Lake City and that families were taking their vacations in Nauvoo. I can certainly understand how holy this place is to the Mormon faith. I've been all over the state of Illinois and this is the best tourist destination in the state, hands down! read more