The Nature Institute, a non-profit land conservation center, maintains multiple preservation areas including the Olin Nature Preserve, the Mississippi Sanctuary, the Kemp and Cora Hutchinson Bird Sanctuary, the Freeman, Metzger, Larson Savanna, and a Cypress Pond.

A haven for bird watchers, hikers, and researchers, The Nature Institute is interlaced with miles of hiking trails with the opportunity to see Illinois wildlife, streams, a waterfall, prairie land, and restored forests and there are regular events held at the center with an emphasis on education, biology, and outdoor fun.

Appreciate art and nature on a stroll through the Signature Gardens at Lewis & Clark Community College Campus- the 215-acre campus features beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and dozens of one-of-a-kind art and sculptures including the iconic Sacagawea Statue designed by Glenna Goodacre.

See gorgeous seasonal flowers and trees, take a public walking tour of the gardens, or even take a wooded hike on the Lewis & Clark Community College Eco Trails, a 2.5 mile trail system behind the McPike Math & Science Complex at the back of the L&C Campus.

Want to get your hands dirty? Take a specialized course and learn about wholesome farm practices at Godfrey’s Theodora Farms and shop the certified organic farm’s store offering local pickles, preserves, kombucha, cheese, eggs, and meats.

You can also join a unique outdoor event at Flourish Farmstead with permaculture expert and writer Crystal Stevens to learn about sustainable gardening, foraging, and plant identification

Start your day teeing off in Godfrey! Lockhaven Golf Club & Banquet Facility has a professionally designed 18-hole, 72 par course on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River or you can tee off or play a round of quick golf at the Rolling Hills Golf Course with 18 holes, a driving range, and an executive/foot golf course.

Godfrey Illinois has a variety of public parks- the Robert E. Glazebrook Community Park has pet-friendly paved walking trails, soccer and baseball fields, tennis & pickleball courts, the Glazebrook Park Splash Pad, two fishing lakes, playgrounds, and is the host location for multiple Godfrey events including the annual Great Godfrey Maze, Godfrey’s Fall Corn Festival and Independence Day celebrations, and more.

See the Mississippi River from Godfrey at LaVista Park with a paved walking trail winding down the hillside to the Great River Road, an 18-hole disc golf course, and picnic areas or get up close and personal with the river at Great Rivers Park- a stop along the riverfront that’s a great photo opportunity with sheer bluffsides, river views, and access to the Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail.

You can stop by Homer Adams Park attached to Godfrey’s Village Hall where the kids can play on the playground and finish the day with a picnic or take a break at the Captain Jake Ringering Park at Clifton Terrace, a 3-acre park just off the Great River Road with a playground and restrooms- it’s also a great place to search for American bald eagles in the winter months.