With the days getting shorter and summer coming to a close, make sure you get to one of these 11 scenic sunset-viewing spots in Wisconsin.
With over 800 miles of Great Lakes shoreline available in Wisconsin, incredible views are never in short supply. From the southeastern corner of the state, where a sandy seat on the shore of Lake Michigan is only a stone’s throw away, to northern Wisconsin, where Lake Superior shimmers in all its glory. Wisconsin is fortunate to have so many state parks available for the public to visit, even if there is a small fee.
Most of these spots are free to visit, but the state park locations require a day pass (or are part of an annual pass option). Prices range from as low as $3 up to $50 (for out-of-state visitors). Check the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website before going for additional details or to even buy your pass ahead of time.
As summer comes to a close, with the days only getting shorter, make time to enjoy the setting sun. If you enjoy scenic views and catching just the right view of the sunsets on the horizon, consider visiting these 12 scenic sunset views in Wisconsin.
Terrace at Memorial Union
800 Langdon Street, Madison
Nestled in the heart of downtown Madison along Lake Mendota sits the Terrace at Memorial Union. With recreational activities, dining, music, and so much more, there are plenty of things to do while you wait to watch the sun dip down into the horizon. No reservations are required, and about 2,000 seats on the terrace are available to the public.
Veterans Park
1010 North Lincoln Memorial Drive, Milwaukee
Veterans Park in Milwaukee is home to incredible panoramic views of the lakefront with plenty of space to pack a picnic meal and watch the sun go down. Or, if you’d prefer to be out on the water, consider renting a swan pedal boat, kayak, or canoe. Visitors to the park agree that it’s a gorgeous and absolutely beautiful space to enjoy.
Door County Peninsula
Ephraim, Fish Creek, Sister Bay Waterfront Park, and more
The Door County Peninsula stretches for 80 miles along the Eastern Wisconsin coast. The Peninsula is home to touristy, well-known Wisconsin spots like Ephraim, Fish Creek, Sister Bay, Washington Island, Sturgeon Bay, and more.
Since this peninsula is such a go-to spot for visitors, they even have details on sunset timing. Check out their sunset cruise options during your stay for an Instagrammable evening photo shoot and a great time.
Cornucopia Beach
State Highway 13, Cornucopia (northern Wisconsin on Lake Superior)
In one of Wisconsin’s northernmost towns, you can find Cornucopia Beach. Not only is it a beautiful spot to spend the day (with a sandy beach and refreshing, safe swimming water), but it also provides vibrant views of the sunset. While you’re visiting, you may also enjoy a stop by the nearby museum or the sea caves that call the beach home.
Big Bay State Park (Madeline Island)
2402 Hagen Road, La Pointe
Big Bay State Park on Madeline Island in La Pointe is another fabulous spot to capture scenic sunsets. Visitors can hike, camp, picnic, or get on the water throughout the day and into the evening hours. The beach runs along 1.5 miles of Lake Superior’s shoreline, providing views that are sure to delight any sunset enthusiast. The park is only a short ferry ride from Bayfield.
Devil’s Lake
S5975 Park Road, Baraboo
Known as the largest state park in Wisconsin, Devil’s Lake is the perfect place to catch a picturesque view of the sun setting. With quartzite bluffs, a lake, and hiking along 16 different trails, you’re sure to be able to capture some serene scenic views on your visit. The park is open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. all year.
Riverside Park
100 State Street, La Crosse
At the heart of downtown La Crosse sits the picturesque view of the Mississippi River at Riverside Park. Visitors who have left reviews of the experience describe the sunset as mesmerizing and agree it’s a great place to watch the sunset. While you wait for the sun to set, consider catching live music at the Riverside Park bandstand. There’s plenty to enjoy any day of the week from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Bender Park
4503 E Ryan Road, Oak Creek
Stop by Oak Creek for a stroll along a walking trail or grassy knoll that follows along Lake Michigan. With sandy beaches and scenic bluffs, Bender Park is a fantastic place to visit to catch beautiful sunset views. The park is open seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Kohler-Andrae State Park
1020 Beach Park Lane, Sheboygan
While Kohler-Andrae State Park is busier during the summer hours, the views are worth the wait. This location features sand dunes, sandy beaches, and gorgeous views of Lake Michigan. Visitors to the park leave rave reviews about the natural beauty and unique sand dunes—which is part of a designated State Natural Area since 1969. Check out trails for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding at this location.
Rib Mountain
149801 State Park Road, Wausau
According to the Wisconsin DNR website, Rib Mountain State Park has billion-year-old features. Although the geographic features have been around for a long time, there are modern-day amenities for picnicking and an observation tower for incredible views. The park is open year-round until 11 p.m.
Blue Mound State Park
4350 Mounds Park Road, Blue Mounds
Last, but certainly not least, is Blue Mound State Park in southern Wisconsin (near Madison). This location offers a unique opportunity to see a sunset from one of the observation towers, which visitors especially enjoy. The park has two observation towers, each 40 feet tall, offering stunning views. With nearly 1,000 reviews of the park on Google, folks repeatedly comment on how great the park is and that the views don’t disappoint.
