The Nauvoo center point is approximately 5 miles south of Ft Madison Amtrak and 9 miles north of Keokuk Area Hospital.
Since it was established in 1839 by Latter-day Saints, better known as Mormons, Nauvoo has been a place of beauty and rich history. You can explore over 30 historic sites in the area year-round, with most buildings dating back to the period between 1839 and 1846. Of course, like every destination, some months make for a better visit to Nauvoo than others.
If you're aiming to visit Nauvoo when the weather is at its best, opt to travel between the end of April through mid-June. During this time, temperatures during the day average between 63 and 82 degrees. At night, it can get down to the low 50s, although in June it rarely gets below the mid 60s.
During these summer months, the chance of rain is also higher, so be sure to pack a rain coat. Ideally, your travel wardrobe will consist of light layers so that you'll stay comfortable in the warm, humid weather.
You can certainly find discounted accommodations in Nauvoo through various programs. Quality Inn, Fairfield Inn & Suites, Best Western, and Super 8 branded hotels all offer discounts for members of AAA along with senior guests.
Those who qualify for a military discount can score one at Super 8, Holiday Inn Express, or the nearby Quality Inn & Suites. The Knights Inn in Fort Madison, just 6 miles from Nauvoo's city center, also offers discounts for seniors, military, and AAA members.
When it comes to the all-around best value accommodations in Nauvoo, The Red Front Suite takes the cake. Located in the heart of downtown, this Airbnb puts you just a block from the Nauvoo Temple. You'll be within walking distance of most sites and attractions in the area, plus you'll be getting the entire 1,575 square foot space to yourself, or the 14 other guests you may decide to invite along.
The Red Front Suite occupies the entire second floor above the highly rated restaurant, The Red Front. Its location isn't its only bonus though. Aside from the building, built in 1880, being one of the first constructed in the area, you'll enjoy delightful views of Mulholland street from the large windows in the family room. Plus, guests repeatedly rate it as sparkling clean.
The Red Front Suite comes with the fastest available internet available in the area and other amenities you'll enjoy include a kitchenette complete with a refrigerator, freezer, microwave, and toaster oven. There is air conditioning, a television, a keypad for easy access, and free on-street parking as well.
Plus, when you get hungry, you can just head downstairs to The Red Front restaurant, where guests repeatedly rate the food five-stars. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner six days a week Monday through Saturday, so you can add that to your list of amenities thanks to its convenience.
Countless attractions bring visitors to Nauvoo year-round. It's not just the historical sites, visitors also come for the many events that Nauvoo hosts throughout every season. From their Annual Grape Festival to their country fairs and other happenings, you'll find there is always something to do.
Still, a trip to Nauvoo wouldn't be complete without paying a visit to some of the historical buildings that shaped the area's history. One of the sites that stands out is the Nauvoo Temple, as it is one of the most famous attractions in the area. While it holds special prominence for Latter Day Saints, everyone who comes to Nauvoo can appreciate the temple's stunning beauty inside and out.
The temple's prominent location on the bluff that overlooks the Mississippi River means you can see it from just about every spot in town. You can get an especially commanding view of it from the Trail of Hope, which is the path the church members took when they left Nauvoo in 1846 at the threat of violence.
Many tour guides in the area are happy to give you an immersive walk around the temple and nearby areas any day of the year. They love to recount stories of the town's rich and prominent past, which is why visiting the Joseph Smith Historic Site is also a must-do.
The Historic Site offers a glimpse back into 1840s life as stories come alive thanks to passionate tour guides who will tell you all about the restored homes and shops that line Nauvoo's streets. Visit just about any historical attraction in the area and you'll also have the chance for free horse-drawn wagon rides, pioneer demonstrations, and live entertainment year-round.
If you're on a budget, don't fear. Most places in Nauvoo are free to the public, although you might be tempted to pick up some souvenirs from your trip. Many historical sites also welcome donations if you enjoyed your tour. Other than that, you can save your cash for some of the delicious restaurants and bakeries around Nauvoo.
Annie's Frozen Custard is a Nauvoo favorite, and so is the Fudge Factory. Grandpa John's Nauvoo Cafe is ideal for breakfast while Casey's General Store offers fantastic pizza. Kinnick On The River has a full-service bar, but it also has a family area for those looking to sit down and dine. While you're planning your itinerary, Peter's Place is also worth a visit, as it's often called a "hidden treasure" by locals.
So, no matter when you're visiting Nauvoo or how long you're staying, you're sure to get plenty out of your trip to this vibrant, historical small town. Leave plenty of time for exploring its rich past and be sure to bring a camera to capture some of its most prominent and beautiful places.