Kid Friendly Nauvoo Itinerary

Planning a trip to Nauvoo with kids? You’re in luck—Nauvoo is full of hands-on experiences and family fun that bring history and adventure to life. From pioneer games and wagon rides to exploring museums, parks, and sweet treats downtown, there’s plenty to keep young travelers entertained. Our kid-friendly itinerary highlights the best spots and activities to spark curiosity, burn off energy, and create memories the whole family will treasure.

The best place to begin your exploration of the historic sites is the Visitors’ Center, where families can get an introduction to all that Nauvoo has to offer. Inside, children will find plenty to capture their attention with kid-friendly exhibits, hands-on activities, and interactive displays that make history fun. Families can watch short films that bring Nauvoo’s story to life, explore models and artifacts that connect the past to the present, and even take part in activities designed just for kids to help them imagine what life was like long ago. With friendly guides ready to answer questions and point you toward the next adventure, the Visitors’ Center sets the stage for a day of discovery that the whole family will enjoy.

Step back in time and let kids play like it’s the 1840s. Pioneer Pastimes offers hands-on fun with old-fashioned games, toys, and activities that give children a taste of life in early Nauvoo—perfect for burning energy while learning a little history.

History truly comes alive here! Families can watch demonstrations of pioneer trades like brickmaking, candle dipping, rope making, and bread baking. Kids especially enjoy trying out some of the activities themselves—it’s history they can touch, see, and smell.

Step inside the historic Scovil Bakery and discover how bread, pies, and other goods were made in the 1840s. Kids can see the big brick oven, learn about pioneer baking, and imagine what it was like to live in Nauvoo

Watch sparks fly at the Webb Blacksmith Shop as skilled blacksmiths shape iron the old-fashioned way. Kids love seeing tools come to life right before their eyes, and everyone leaves with a small handcrafted keepsake to remember the experience.

Sometimes a kid just needs to be a kid and play on the playground. Nauvoo has several parks that are perfect for running around and letting off some steam. 

Nauvoo City Park is located right next to the Temple under the water tower. It features picnic tables, playground equipment, and plenty of space to run and play.

Nauvoo State Park has a variety of playground equipment, shelter houses, and picnic areas perfect for a relaxing lunch. 

Nauvoo Park District - Locals have nicknamed this the "Purple Park", after its purple playground equipment. Located on the east edge of town, this park has playground equipment, ball diamond, dog park, and is a great place to run and play. 

This quiet spot just outside of town is the perfect place to cool down on a hot summer day. The peaceful stream and shaded picnic area and just right for a refreshing stop. Wade in the shallow stream, check out the waterfalls, and hit pause on life. 

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints offers a variety of performances through the day that will be sure to please young and old alike. Check out the variety of performances and schedule on their website. Our favorite is Sunset on the Mississippi, which happens every day at 7:00 pm, and is a fun family friendly performance.

During the month of July, end the day with an evening of family fun at the Nauvoo and British Pageants, held each summer. These outdoor productions bring history to life with music, dancing, and stories that kids can easily follow and enjoy. Before the shows, families can join in the country fair, where children can try pioneer games, crafts, dancing, and other hands-on fun. It’s a lively and memorable way for kids to experience history while being part of the excitement.