Attractions & Historic Sites in Godfrey, IL

Godfrey is known for its rich history and beautiful nature. Key sites include the Lewis and Clark Community College campus and its Monticello Sculpture Gardens, a favorite photo spot and place to pay homage to the arts. The Great River Road, a scenic byway that winds along the Mississippi River, provides breathtaking views of the river and surrounding limestone bluffs. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and birdwatching. Take a river cruise to enjoy gorgeous fall foliage on the bluffs, and keep an eye out for bald eagles, who nest along the Mississippi through winter! Even if you miss the eagles, the Piasa Bird is a sure sight. This legendary creature from Native American folklore watches the river from its spot painted on the bluffs.

For history lovers, Godfrey is steeped in rich historical significance. The historic Benjamin Godfrey Memorial Chapel, built in 1854 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers an impressive record of the town’s past. The region played a role in the Underground Railroad, with landmarks like Rocky Fork Church and the African Methodist Episcopal Church serving as stops for escaped slaves seeking freedom. Visitors can explore these historical sites, gaining insight into the area’s past and the brave individuals who fought against slavery.