Support Us Button Widget

Best places in Indy to catch the sunrise or sunset

Indiana is home to some pretty spectacular skies, especially where day and night meet. Here’s where you can get the best view.

INDYtoday: INDY_Highland Park sunset picnic camera_JUL24

If you’re planning on catching the sunset or sunrise at Highland Park, make sure you bring your camera along too.

Who doesn’t love a good sunrise or sunset? Whether you’re an early riser, a serial sunset Instagrammer, or a nature lover, there’s a spot for you in Indy where you can soak up the rising or the setting of the sun.

The Rooftop Garden | 1105 Prospect St. | Hours: 6 p.m. to close | From spring through fall, you can take in the sunset as it falls over the skyline with a cocktail in hand and a DJ set playing in the background. It’s also a great spot to gather with friends on special occasions; City Editor Shea had her 30th birthday party here.

INDYtoday: INDY_Fountain Square Rooftop Garden bar sunset_JUL24

The Rooftop Garden typically remains open until mid-October, when it closes down for the winter. | Photo by @mirandaryder_

Highland Park | 1100 E. New York St. | Hours: Dawn to dusk | This four-acre park is one of the highest points of the city, presenting stunning views of the skyline. Be sure to bring a picnic along — we’d recommend welcoming the sun and starting your day with some donuts from Long’s.

Morse Reservoir | 20999 Hague Rd., Noblesville | Hours: Dawn to dusk | Red sky at night, sailor’s delight. There’s something special about catching the last of the sun’s rays while listening to waves gently lapping the side of your kayak or boat on the open water. We should also mention that, if you’re on the west side, Eagle Creek Reservoir is an equally stunning spot to watch celestial happenings.

INDYtoday: INDY_Morse Reservoir sunset_JUL

Morse Reservoir is also a great spot to view holiday fireworks on Independence Day.

Photo by @l2b2

The Eagle’s Nest | 1 S. Capitol Ave. | Hours: 5-10 p.m. | Splurge on a fancy dinner at Indiana’s only revolving rooftop eatery. Thanks to the incredible 360-degree view of the city and the delicious menu, it’s a favorite for the social media crowd and foodies alike.

Crown Hill Cemetery | 700 W. 38th St. | Hours: Variable by season | In addition to being a great spot to cry, Crown Hill (originally named Strawberry Hill) is another one of the city’s high points with a beautiful view. While its summer hours are just slightly too narrow to enjoy dawn or dusk here, you’ll be able to enjoy a snowy scenic view of the day changing during the winter.

More from INDYtoday
Whether you’re a foodie, fitness fiend, fledgling costume designer, or live music fanatic, Irvington’s annual Halloween festival has a way for you to get into the holiday spirit.
Looking for something to do on fall break without going too far? It’s a great time to go camping. Here are a few spots around central Indiana that we recommend.
Need a showstopping fit for Halloween — or any other holiday or themed party? Check out these locally owned costume shops where you’re likely to find your dream getup.
Dining in Indy is always a fresh experience with new restaurants popping up all the time — and more on the way.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Sober curious or taking part in Dry January or Sober October? We’ve got your guide to zero proof drinks in Indy.
We’ve made a concerted effort to orchestrate this list, so you can focus on finding the artists you adore.
Autumn is coming — and so are the fall colors we all love. Find the most stunning foliage at these spots.
North Mass Boulder’s annual North Massive event attracts climbers from across the world + community members for a day of competition, entertainment, and fun for all ages.
Whether you love family-friendly scares or straight up horror, there’s a movie screening near you... if you dare.