Is it just me or does it seem like sunset gets all of the hype? Of course, it’s beautiful and there’s a decent chance that most people will be awake for it, but I don’t think it deserves such a lead on sunrise.
There’s something really special about being up for sunrise, especially when you live in the city. It’s quiet and the city feels sleepy and still. When the weather is just right, you can get some pretty stunning views.
So if you’re a person who enjoys the stillness and solitude of dawn, we’ve got some cool places you should check out at sunrise.
If you’re wondering whether or not the sunrise will be colorful and worth the early wake-up, you can always utilize a sunrise/sunset quality map.
The Water Tower at Scioto Audubon Metro Park
If you’re looking for a truly exceptional place to start your day off you should head to Scioto Audubon Metro Park. The 120-acre park sits just south of downtown Columbus and it has a phenomenal view of the city. That’s especially true from the platform on the water tower.
The park opens every day at 6:30, so it’s a great place to see the sunrise in the winter months, since you can get there well before the sun starts to come up.
Location: 400 W Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43215
More info: Metroparks.net
Hoover Reservoir
One of the most peaceful places to watch the sunrise is Hoover Reservoir. The water, the woods, the birds, it all create the most magical start to the day. The park is massive, over 4,700 acres to be exact, so there are a lot of great places there to watch the skies come alive.
A stunning sunrise might not be the only thing majestic thing you see at the park. It’s a great place to do some birdwatching and from dawn to about 10 a.m. happens to be the best time to see the bald eagles that call the reservoir home.
Location: 7701 Sunbury Rd, Westerville, OH 43081
More info: Columbus.gov
Blacklick Woods Metro Park
Blacklick Woods Metro Park has one of the best remaining beech-maple forests in Central Ohio, with trails leading to a swamp forest with oak and white ash. When the sun starts peeking up through the trees or shining out over the ponds, it totally transforms the park.
The park opens at 6:30 a.m. every single day, so for most of the year, you can visit in time to see the sun come up.
Location: 6975 E Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068
More info: Metroparks.net
Goodale Park
Goodale Park is one of my favorite places to be at sunrise. If you want to make a whole morning out of it, grab a coffee and your favorite breakfast pastry on your way over, then watch the beautiful morning light spread out over the park’s best feature: the elephant fountain.
The best part about Goodale is that it’s got great views for both sunrise and sunset.
Location: 120 W. Goodale St., Columbus, OH 43215
More info: Columbus.gov