Nothing closes a day quite like a vibrant sunset. Even in the most worn-out places, the sun’s parting glow turns the ordinary into something precious.
Read more Where’s the best Southern restaurant in the Columbia area?Vote for your favorite spot in our poll
Yet, certain places have a way of making a beautiful sunset even grander.
A Mission for Michael surveyed 3,042 people and asked them to identify the best free, public and city-based sunset spots across the country. The result was a list of the top 140 sunset spots in the nation, the areas that hold the most memorable views.
From rooftop bars to riverwalks, the study mapped out the best golden-hour spots in each state, according to their website.
“Sunsets are one of the few experiences that can still make people stop what they are doing and pay attention to the present moment,” said Anand Mehta, LMFT, Executive Director at A Mission for Michael. “What stood out from the survey was how strongly Americans connect these views with calm, happiness, and a better quality of life.”
In South Carolina, three spots made the list, and some were very close to the top. Here’s where you can find the best sunset-views in the Palmetto State:
Best sunset-watching spots in SC
#1. Falls Park on the Reedy, Greenville
Respondents to the survey said that Falls Park on the Reedy in Greenville is the state’s best spot to watch the sunset. Not only that, but it also is the 18th best sunset spot in the country.
And what’s not to love? The cascading waterfall, gorgeous scenery, the Liberty Bridge and glimpses of the surrounding city in the heart of downtown Greenville make a sunset feel like it’s from a movie.
Read more Remember Columbia’s Del Taco? The nation’s best fast food restaurant is back in SC
#2. Columbia Canal & Riverfront Park, Columbia
For Columbia residents, the top area to watch a sunset is at the Canal & Riverfront Park. Due to its calm and spacious setting near the water, as well as its beautiful walking paths, bridges and trees, the Canal & Riverfront Park ranks 46th in the country.
As golden hour develops, the river reflects the changing sky while people walk, cycle or pause along the waterfront close to the center of the city.
#3. Joe Riley Waterfront Park, Charleston
It would be ridiculous if Charleston didn’t make this list, but of course, the coastal city has plenty of gorgeous views to land a spot on this ranking. According to the study, the Joe Riley Waterfront Park is the third-best sunset spot in SC, and ranks 52nd in the nation.
At this spot, palmettos, fountains, walkways, open water and nearby historic streets all take on a warmer glow as the evening light begins to change. Visitors can watch the sunset beside the harbor while remaining surrounded by the restaurants, architecture, and walkable character that define downtown Charleston.
Best spots in the US to watch a sunset
SC has some amazing spots to watch the sunset, but these places take the cake, according to the survey. Here are the 10 best sunset spots in America:
Read more 2 Greenville County restaurants close temporarily after failing health inspection
#1. Magic Island / Ala Moana Beach Park, Hawaii
#2. Mallory Square Sunset Celebration, Florida
#3. Brooklyn Bridge Park, New York
#4. South Pointe Park Pier, Florida
#5. Griffith Observatory, California
#6. Adler Planetarium Skyline View, Illinois
#7. Kailua Pier, Hawaii
#8. Gas Works Park, Washington
#9. Grandview Overlook, Pennsylvania
#10. Shoreline Park, California.
