Best Places In Minnesota To Watch The Sunset
The majesty of a good sunset possesses unparalleled natural beauty. Watching deep oranges and vibrant reds streak across the sky, growing darker as the sun sinks below the horizon, can be a breathtaking experience that happens almost every night. Sure, we've all seen a grand sunset, but they never get old. If you're looking for a truly beautiful sunset, one of those dazzling skies that really takes your breath away, try one of these spots. Bring a loved one or go alone. Either way, you won't be disappointed.
Mounds Park
10 Mounds Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55106
(651) 632-5111
www.ci.stpaul.mn.us
From Saint Paul's east side bluffs, the setting sun sets both skylines awash in a blaze of glory. The height is enough so that no skyscrapers will stand in the way of your view; in fact the towering buildings seem to shrink under the magnificence of the sun. Amidst the history and seemingly endless greenery of Mounds Park, the splendor of the Twin Cities is revealed in all its glory. You won't find a better view.
Stone Arch Bridge
6th Ave. S.E. & Main St. S.E.
Minneapolis, MN 55414
(612) 230-6400
www.minneapolisparks.org
To get a closer view of the sunset's relationship to the city, the Stone Arch Bridge provides stunning views of the fading sunlight cutting across the steel and glass behemoths of Minneapolis skyline. Long shadows grow longer as they're cast across the river, the light reflects across the faces of the modern skyscrapers, the captivating awe as the sun clashes with modernity...it truly is a thing of beauty. The surrounding neighborhood is also picturesque at dusk, making for a great evening stroll.
The Rose Garden
12th Ave. E. and London Road
Duluth, MN 55812
(218) 730-4300
www.exploreminnesota.com
Lake Superior is the grandest body of water within the borders of the United States. Standing at its shores and it may as well be an ocean, with tides drifting out until they become one with the horizon. When the sun begins to set, the water becomes a mirror for the brilliant colors; the fiery hues that it makes have left people speechless for centuries. The Rose Garden in Duluth, part of Leif Erickson Park, is a beautiful and serene location; the perfect place to appreciate the truly inspiring sight of a Duluth sunset.
Lake Harriet
43rd St. W. and E. Lake Harriet Blvd.
Minneapolis, MN 55409
(612) 230-6400
www.minneapolisparks.org
For an inner-city sunset view that is completely free of the industry, cars and noise that is associated with the city, relax on the beach and surrounding grounds of Lake Harriet. You'll enjoy nothing but open sky, blue water, lush green trees and the amazing bandshell to catch the light. Minneapolis, the "City of Lakes," offers plenty, especially along the chain of lakes that Lake Harriet is a part of. But if you want to watch the best sunset cutting across the water, this is the lake you'll want to be on.
Tower Hill Park (Prospect Park)
Malcom St. S.E.
Minneapolis, MN 55414
(612) 668-1122
www.pperr.org
You can really see the city unfold in front of you from the views atop the hill at this urban park. The short walk to the top is a wooded, pleasant journey and the historic water tower, known as the "Witch's Hat" due to its recognizable point, adds an old world charm. But it's all about the view: the city stretching for miles under the sunset is truly a sight to behold. Benches provide a place sit down and relax, watch day turn to night and appreciate the world around you.
Related: Vote on the best place to see fall colors in Minnesota
Adrian Schramm is a resident Saint Paul writer with a passion for all things local. Through his work with Saint Paul Almanac and Minneapolis Examiner at Examiner.com, as well as in the kitchens of bars and restaurants around town, he has discovered what truly makes the Twin Cities tick.
