Where to find Wisconsin’s best sunset spots

There’s nothing like a stunning sunset to cap off a day of adventure in Wisconsin. Here’s a region-by-region guide on where to find some of the state’s best sunsets.

Northern Wisconsin

Looking for a wonderful sunset in the Northwoods of Wisconsin? Just add water. Oneida County and Vilas County are home to one of the largest concentrations of freshwater lakes in the world, so it’s easy to find a lakeside spot to catch a beautiful sunset, whether you’re strolling by a lake in Boulder Junction or exploring Oneida County’s scenic trails.

Here are a few suggestions on where to see stunning sunsets in northern Wisconsin:

Plum Lake, Sayner-Star Lake
North Trout Lake Picnic Area, Boulder Junction
Railroad trestles on the Bearskin State Trail, Oneida County
Hodag Park, Rhinelander
The outside patio at The Thirsty Whale, Minocqua
Big Bay State Park, Madeline Island
Josie Creek County Park, Rusk County

Central Wisconsin

The central part of the state has abundant places to take in a stunning sunset as well, including the charming river towns along the Wisconsin Great River Road (which follows the Mississippi River on the west side of the state), parks and natural areas in Wausau, Stevens Point, and beyond, and beaches all along Lake Michigan.

A few great places to see sunsets in central Wisconsin:

Buckhorn State Park, Necedah
Hamus Nature Preserve and Recreation Area, Marshfield
Point Beach State Forest, Two Rivers
High Cliff State Park, Sherwood
The Pickle Factory Waterfront Grill, Pepin

Southern Wisconsin

You’ll find Wisconsin’s two biggest cities—Milwaukee and Madison—in the southern third of the state, but that doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on great sunsets either. Southern Wisconsin is home to lots of lakes, parks, and other scenic spots to watch a sunset.

Don’t miss these southern Wisconsin sunset hotspots: