The Great River Road along the Mississippi River in the western part of the state provides some of the best views in Wisconsin. All along the road are cute, charming and quaint small towns that have made the shores of the river home. One of the best is tiny Alma, Wisconsin.

According to the town website, "Historic Alma is a 19th-century river town perched on a narrow strip of land between the Mississippi River and 500-foot limestone bluffs. Our historic town of less than 1,000 is only two streets wide and has 12 unique stairstep streets and a "dugway" to the top of the bluff. In 1982 over 200 buildings were included in the designation of the City of Alma as a National Historic District because of our preservation of waterfront 19th-century buildings. Built into the river bluffs in the style of a European village and bordered by the mighty Mississippi River, Alma is a unique Wisconsin treasure."

That's reason enough to visit, but those limestone bluffs mentioned above are also quite the draw. Atop the bluffs here is Buena Vista Park and the overlook from Buena Vista gives you panoramic views of the Mississippi River Valley below and is one of the best views in the entire state.

This bluff sits 500 feet above the town below, giving sweeping views in all directions. This area is known for bald eagles, herons, and pelicans, making this perch a great spot for you to do some birding.

This is the state's largest natural balcony overlooking the Mississippi River. Below, the water stretches in both directions and you get a birds-eye view of the Lock and Dam system, plus views well into Minnesota and north and south along the river.

Unsurprisingly, this uninterrupted view west is a stunning spot to watch the sunset.

There is a picnic area and grills, as well as a small playground. The spot is so picturesque that many folks use the bluff to host their wedding.

The bluff provides stunning views no matter the season. Though it feels more stark in winter, there's something very calming and relaxing about feeling along atop the world up here.

In fall, the valley explodes in color as the leaves change, making this a must-stop location for leaf peepers.

Charming little Alma is just two streets right there on the banks of the river, but it's been the perfect location for a small town for more than 150 years. You understand it's a small town when you explore it, but to see the whole town laid out before you from up on the bluff is to really understand its small size.

Driving the Great River Road is something every Wisconsinite should experience — it's a stunning way to see our state and many of our oldest towns began here, along the Mighty Mississippi. It's chock full of history, charm and absolutely breathtaking views.

There's something so peaceful and life-affirming about standing above everything and taking it in. You'll be reminded of how small you are in the vast world while standing on this beautiful overlook and it can be a humbling experience.

Buena Vista Park is located at the end of Buena Vista Road, off County Road E, Alma, WI 54610. Have you had the opportunity to take in the breathtaking views from atop Buena Vista Park? What other overlooks do you love to spend time at? Let us know in the comments!

Here are some of the best views in all of the state.