Are you ready for an astronomical spectacle of a lifetime? On April 8, 2024, the Great American Eclipse will once again grace the skies, offering an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and skygazers across North America. Let’s find the 10 best places to witness the Great American Eclipse.
NASA/Gopalswamy
People across North America will be treated to the view of a lifetime on Monday when a total solar eclipse is set to span across the continent, from Mexico to the very eastern tip of Canada.
Hundreds of events are already being planned for 8 April for eclipse watchers to step outside, look into the sky, and catch this rare, astronomical phenomenon. Planning where to witness this celestial event is crucial.
If you want to be part of the fun, here is our comprehensive guide to where and how to see the eclipse. I’ve curated a list of the top 10 locations that promise unparalleled views of the eclipse.
Understanding a Solar Eclipse
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon positions itself between the Earth and the Sun, obstructing the Sun’s rays either partially or entirely from reaching the Earth’s surface. This cosmic alignment creates two types of shadows: a partial solar eclipse, where only a portion of the Sun is obscured, and the more captivating total solar eclipse, where the Sun is entirely engulfed by the Moon, leaving a mesmerizing ring of light visible in the sky.
Rareness of a Total Solar Eclipse
While solar eclipses themselves are not uncommon, witnessing a total solar eclipse is a rare occurrence. Typically, there are about two to four solar eclipses each year, but the chances of experiencing a total eclipse are significantly slimmer. Due to the Earth’s vast size and much of its surface being covered by oceans, total solar eclipses are infrequent phenomena for most observers. In fact, the last total solar eclipse visible across the continental United States was in 1918, and the next one won’t grace our skies until 2079, making the upcoming event in 2024 a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many.
Timing and Path of the Eclipse
The timing of the solar eclipse varies depending on your location, with the entire phenomenon lasting approximately two hours. For observers in the Eastern time zone, the eclipse will begin shortly after 14:00 local time and conclude at 15:46 local time. The path of totality, where the total solar eclipse is fully visible, will commence at approximately 11:07 local time in Mazatlán, Mexico, and traverse northeastward over several US states before reaching the Canadian province of Newfoundland.
Here’s a breakdown of when the total solar eclipse will occur in selected US and Canadian cities, all in local time:
- San Antonio, Texas: 13:33 Central
- Dallas, Texas: 13:40 Central
- Carbondale, Illinois: 13:59 Central
- Cleveland, Ohio: 15:13 Eastern
- Buffalo, New York: 15:18 Eastern
- Burlington, Vermont: 15:26 Eastern
- Montreal, Quebec: 15:27 Eastern
- Fredericton, New Brunswick: 16:33 Atlantic
- Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador: 17:12 Newfoundland time
1. Carbondale, Illinois
Carbondale has earned its reputation as the “Eclipse Crossroads of America” due to its location in the path of totality, offering one of the longest durations of the eclipse. This makes it a prime destination for avid eclipse chasers who want to maximize their viewing time.
Accommodations in Carbondale are plentiful, ranging from budget-friendly options to more luxurious stays. The Holiday Inn Carbondale Conference Center and Quality Inn Carbondale University Area provide comfortable lodging options for travelers.
Campgrounds:
- Giant City State Park Campground: Offers scenic campsites surrounded by lush forests, just a short drive from Carbondale.
- Ferne Clyffe State Park Campground: Features spacious campsites and hiking trails, providing a tranquil setting for eclipse watchers.
2. Austin, Texas
While not directly in the path of totality, Austin offers a vibrant urban setting for witnessing the eclipse. Head to Zilker Park for a communal viewing experience amidst the city’s lively atmosphere.
Accommodations in Austin cater to various preferences, from trendy boutique hotels to upscale resorts. The LINE Austin and Austin Marriott Downtown are both centrally located options for travelers looking to explore the city’s vibrant culture.
Campgrounds:
- McKinney Falls State Park: Offers camping sites nestled among picturesque waterfalls and lush vegetation, providing a natural oasis near the city.
- Emma Long Metropolitan Park: Provides camping sites along the shores of Lake Austin, offering stunning views and outdoor recreational activities.
3. Niagara Falls, New York
Viewing the eclipse against the backdrop of Niagara Falls adds an extra layer of grandeur to this celestial event. The thundering waters of the falls create a dramatic setting for witnessing the eclipse.
Accommodations near Niagara Falls offer stunning views of the natural wonder. The Courtyard by Marriott Niagara Falls and Sheraton Niagara Falls provide convenient access to eclipse viewing spots along with luxurious amenities.
Campgrounds:
- Four Mile Creek State Park Campground: Offers campsites with views of Lake Ontario, just a short drive from Niagara Falls.
- Branches of Niagara Campground & Resort: Provides RV and tent camping options with amenities such as swimming pools and playgrounds, offering a family-friendly camping experience.
4. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape Cod’s serene shores provide a peaceful setting for observing the eclipse. The coastal landscape adds to the natural beauty of the celestial event, creating a picturesque backdrop.
Accommodations on Cape Cod range from charming bed and breakfasts to seaside resorts. Chatham Bars Inn and Cape Springs Cottage offer cozy retreats for travelers seeking a tranquil eclipse experience.
Campgrounds:
- Nickerson State Park Campground: Offers wooded campsites and access to freshwater ponds for swimming and fishing, providing a serene camping experience on Cape Cod.
- Shawme-Crowell State Forest Campground: Provides campsites surrounded by lush forests and hiking trails, offering a peaceful retreat on the Cape.
5. Sedona, Arizona
Known for its stunning red rock formations and spiritual energy, Sedona offers a mystical backdrop for the eclipse. The otherworldly landscapes add to the awe-inspiring nature of the celestial event.
Accommodations in Sedona blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. L’Auberge de Sedona and Enchantment Resort offer luxurious accommodations with breathtaking views of the desert landscape.
Campgrounds:
- Manzanita Campground: Offers campsites nestled among red rock formations, providing a scenic backdrop for eclipse viewing in Sedona.
- Cave Springs Campground: Provides camping sites along Oak Creek, offering opportunities for swimming and relaxation amidst the beauty of Sedona’s landscape.
6. Denver, Colorado
Denver, just outside the path of totality, provides an urban escape for eclipse enthusiasts. Explore the Mile High City’s vibrant culture and dining scene before witnessing the eclipse.
Accommodations in Denver cater to every traveler’s needs, from upscale hotels to budget-friendly options. The Ritz-Carlton, Denver, and Kimpton Hotel Monaco offer luxurious stays in the heart of the city.
Campgrounds:
- Cherry Creek State Park Campground: Offers campsites near a reservoir with opportunities for boating and hiking, providing a convenient camping option near Denver.
- Golden Gate Canyon State Park Campground: Provides campsites in a mountainous setting with hiking trails and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
7. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston’s historic charm and Southern hospitality provide a unique backdrop for observing the eclipse. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and architecture before witnessing the celestial event.
Accommodations in Charleston range from historic bed and breakfasts to boutique hotels. Econo Lodge North and The Vendue offer elegant accommodations with a touch of Southern charm.
Campgrounds:
- James Island County Park Campground: Offers campsites with access to hiking trails and recreational amenities, providing a convenient camping option near Charleston.
- Mount Pleasant / Charleston KOA Holiday: Provides camping sites with amenities such as swimming pools and outdoor recreation areas, offering a comfortable camping experience near Charleston.
8. Portland, Maine
Portland’s picturesque coast offers a tranquil retreat for eclipse watchers. The coastal setting provides a serene backdrop for observing the celestial event.
Accommodations in Portland blend modern comforts with coastal charm. Portland Harbor Hotel and The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection offer stylish stays in the heart of the city’s waterfront district.
Campgrounds:
- Bradbury Mountain State Park Campground: Offers campsites with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and hiking trails, providing a tranquil camping experience near Portland.
- Sebago Lake State Park Campground: Provides campsites along the shores of Sebago Lake, offering opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing, just a short drive from Portland.
9. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park’s stunning wilderness provides a pristine setting for observing the eclipse. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Tetons while experiencing this celestial event.
Accommodations in Grand Teton National Park range from rustic campgrounds to historic lodges. Grand Teton National Park Village and Jackson Lake Lodge offer comfortable lodging options within the park.
Campgrounds:
- Gros Ventre Campground: Offers campsites with stunning views of the Teton Range and opportunities for wildlife viewing, providing a rustic camping experience in Grand Teton National Park.
- Colter Bay Campground: Provides campsites near Jackson Lake with access to hiking trails and water activities, offering a picturesque setting for camping in Grand Teton National Park.
10. San Francisco, California
Viewing the eclipse against the iconic backdrop of the Golden Gate Bridge is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. San Francisco’s stunning waterfront provides a picturesque setting for observing the celestial event.
Accommodations in San Francisco offer a blend of urban sophistication and waterfront charm. Hotel Zephyr and Travelodge by Wyndham Presidio San Francisco provide stylish stays with easy access to prime eclipse viewing spots along the waterfront.
Campgrounds:
- Kirby Cove Campground: Offers campsites with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline, providing a unique camping experience near the city.
- Angel Island State Park Campground: Provides campsites on Angel Island with panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay and the city skyline, offering a peaceful retreat just a ferry ride away from San Francisco.
Organized Gatherings And Events
Numerous gatherings are set to unfold across the continent, offering opportunities to share the exhilaration of witnessing a total solar eclipse. From the Pacific coast of Mazatlán, Mexico, to the football stadium in Carbondale, Illinois, and to the Atlantic shores of Bonavista, Newfoundland, eclipse enthusiasts will convene for this celestial spectacle.
In the United States, NASA is orchestrating a series of events, including a viewing event at the Fair Park Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas, where distinguished astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson will be a featured speaker. Some celebrations will span multiple days, such as the festival at the Great Lakes Science Center in Cleveland, starting on Saturday and culminating with the total solar eclipse viewing on Monday.
Anticipate bustling crowds at these events. In Canada, authorities near Niagara Falls are preparing for over a million visitors, expecting the largest turnout in the city’s history. On the US side, Terrapin Point, Prospect Point, and the Niagara Falls Observation Tower have all been designated as “prime viewing areas” by National Geographic.
Conclusion
As anticipation builds for the upcoming total solar eclipse, now is the perfect time to start planning your viewing experience. Whether you’re traveling to witness the event from a prime location along the path of totality or observing from your hometown, remember to prioritize safety by using proper solar viewing glasses or equipment.