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On Monday, April 8, there’s a celestial event you might want to plan a trip around: the last total solar eclipse visible in the Lower 48 for the next two decades. Those who have seen the event before know what the hype is about; if you’ve never experienced the wild euphoria of seeing the skies darken as the moon obscures the sun, all the more reason to head to the path of totality for the 2024 solar eclipse, which will stretch from Maine to Texas, on April 8.
I experienced my first total solar eclipse in 2017 in Idaho. After some scouting, my friends and I picked the city of Rexburg, Idaho, as our eclipse basecamp (since it was only a few hours from Park City, Utah, where we live). At a large park reserved for camping, we staked out for the night, chatting with amateur astronomers who’d set up their telescopes until around 9:00 a.m. when the skies began to darken.
During a total solar eclipse the lighting grows decidedly eerie—equal parts post-apocalyptic (as if a UFO were overtaking our local star) and photographic (like an underexposed print viewed in a darkroom). As the sky dimmed to pitch black, a glowing ring (safely visible through eclipse-viewing glasses) materialized above. This phenomenon momentarily occurs as the moon lines up perfectly in front of the sun, leaving only a glow of fire behind, followed by a burst of sunlight at one end. It’s one of those few things in life that is truly awesome, in the most archaic and literal sense of the word.
The 2024 solar eclipse will be the last to grace continental U.S. skies for 20 years, and the anticipation is building. According to a recent Expedia report, the eclipse will be a leading driver of travel this spring. Between one to four million people are expected to plan a trip around this celestial event. Kayak has reported a 304% increase in flight searches and 15 times more hotel searches for eclipse dates over the same period last year. Hertz is also reporting a 3,000% increase in car rental reservations in markets within the totality path, compared to the same time last year.
To catch the last eclipse to grace our U.S. skies for 20 years, do it right with these lessons I learned from my 2017 experience—and consider taking it in from one of these destinations, which will sit in the path of totality during April 8’s astronomical event.
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Plan (way) ahead, and stick around after
I was shocked when I first looked into hotel rooms or Airbnbs a few months in advance of the 2017 eclipse in Rexburg (which is anything but a popular tourist destination). Nothing was available, but we managed to snatch up one of the last campsites. Eclipse tourism is real, so book lodging as far in advance as possible; for April 8 I booked accommodations more than one year ahead of time. This guidance applies to every element of your trip—from dining and spa reservations, to tickets for eclipse parties or festivals.
Don’t expect to drive into a city on the totality path the Monday morning of this astronomical event, either. There will be traffic, limited parking, and crowds. Get to your destination at least one day prior, and show up to your viewing site at least a few hours in advance.
The worst part of my 2017 eclipse experience was the traffic on the way home. We departed Rexburg about an hour after the sky show was over and the four-hour journey turned into a nine-hour drive. We sat in stopped traffic for most of it, which was quite inconvenient for frequent bathroom breaks (it didn't help that I was eight months pregnant at the time).
This time around, I’m staying in town the night after the eclipse. Even heading out in the evening vs. the afternoon right after the eclipse ends can help you avoid traffic jams that will quickly kill your eclipse buzz.
Decide on the best experience for you, and come prepared
For some, a sublime spectacle like this is best watched in nature, with only loved ones around. Others might consider an eclipse the ultimate occasion for a party. And a few might want to be within arm’s reach of a powerful telescope. Think about which sort of experience sounds ideal for you and whomever you’re traveling with.
For an outdoorsy setting, research national or state parks near where you’ll be staying—or even better, trails or lakesides where you can find a quiet spot to watch. For a more social eclipse experience, there are at least eight festivals around the event already in motion, many of which include concerts. If you’d like to magnify your views, look into observatories (often university-based) or local astronomy clubs to see if they’re hosting an event.
The ultimate eclipse accessory? Mandatory ISO-certified eclipse glasses that allow you to peer up at the sun during the hour or so of partial eclipse. Don’t do this without eclipse glasses on: Looking directly at the sun without eye protection will damage your eyes. The only time you can peer straight up without these glasses is during the minutes of totality, when the moon hovers right in front of the sun. The glasses are easy to get now, but tend to sell out or experience shipping delays the closer you get to eclipse day, so buy in advance.
Unless you’re watching from a rental house porch or a hotel balcony, you’ll also be away from your lodging for a few hours—so show up prepared with layers, a good sun hat, sunscreen, a fully charged phone, and plenty of water and snacks.
Where to go & stay for the 2024 solar eclipse
The 2024 eclipse will stretch from the west coast of Mexico, across the continental U.S., up to Newfoundland and eastern Canada. There are plenty of excellent spots to watch between those destination. You can see and search along the exact path using this interactive map.
As far as viewing conditions go, the closer to the center of the path of totality, the longer you’ll experience the full eclipse. Another factor to consider is cloudy skies, which won’t ruin an eclipse viewing, but definitely aren’t ideal. The best chance for clear skies during the eclipse is predicted to be in the southwestern part of the path, near Texas and Mexico.
Below are eight cities close to the center that should offer ideal viewing—and promise some great lodging options.
Mazatlán, Mexico
It’s hard to beat the viewing conditions that this Mexico resort town will enjoy. Not only does Mazatlán have a great shot at clear skies, but it’s got the longest totality time on this list, at 4 minutes and 27 seconds of awe-provoking darkness. This beach town will likely be a favorite for eclipse partiers, but there are also more mindful ways to enjoy the event here, like the Portal Conscious Eclipse Festival with yoga, workshops, and camping.
Eclipse events in Mazatlán:
On a hill overlooking Mazatlán and the ocean, the recently renovated Observatory 1873 is hosting the Golden Ring Party on April 8. The event features a Mazatlán-style breakfast, shaman-led meditation sessions, and kid-friendly activities. Tickets are about $55. For the all-in eclipse traveler, the Portal Eclipse Festival (April 5-9) packs in four days of transformative experiences, including yoga, illuminating talks, and DJ beats. Day passes start at $19, and you can pay extra for camping.
A more unique viewing events occurring in Mazatlán takes place at the Las Labradas Archaeological Site on the outskirts of a fishing village along the Pacific. The site will host a two-day event, including an astronomer talk and a welcome reception. Camping on the beach is also available.
Where to stay: A seaside terrace, a rooftop infinity pool, the nearby beach—there are no shortage of excellent spots to watch the eclipse from Casa Lucila Hotel Boutique. Each room is unique, and many include Pacific Ocean views. Just a five-minute walk from Playa Olas Altas, this hotel is also centrally located within walking distance to Mazatlán’s historic quarter, art galleries, and bars for some post-eclipse tequila.
Austin, Texas
While Austin might not experience the longest totality at one minute and 46 seconds, like Mexico, it has a better chance of bluebird skies than destinations further northeast. And for anyone looking for a rollicking good eclipse time, Austin is sure to deliver with its live music and bar scene.
Eclipse events in Austin:
In the heart of downtown, the Four Seasons Hotel Austin is hosting an epic solar eclipse picnic on April 8. There will be gourmet barbecue, an interactive photo booth, tarot card readings, kids’ activities, and live music. Tickets are $75 for adults and $30 for kids.
If you’d rather take in the eclipse from the hills, head to the Hill Country Solar Eclipse Fest (April 7-9), hosted at Lucky Arrow Retreat about 20 miles west of Austin. The fest includes planetarium showings, live music, beer and wine tastings, and astronomer-guided eclipse viewing. Luxury glamping is also available. Tickets start at $200 for adults and $30 for kids.
Where to stay: It’s hard to imagine a livelier spot for an eclipse viewing than the rooftop of The Otis Hotel, Autograph Collection, located near the University of Texas campus. Known as “Otopia,” this fabulous space includes a pool, firepits, a DJ, cocktails, small bites, and unparalleled city views. For a more serene spot close to the city, head to the Lake Austin Spa Resort, which is hosting an eclipse experience the weekend before the event. Leave the planning to the hotel, which will put on an open air pre-eclipse lunch, a cosmic garden party, and eclipse viewing by boat on Lake Austin.
Hot Springs, Arkansas
This lesser known spot in the Ouachita Mountains is, as its name suggests, rich with hot springs. The town is even home to Hot Springs National Park, which will likely host a viewing event. Whether you take in the eclipse from the trails and springs, or just explore the park the weekend before, this area is a great option, with a nice, long three-minute, 37-second totality.
Eclipse events in Hot Springs:
Music, science, and “wonder” will all join forces at Atlas Obscura’s Ecliptic Festival (April 5-8). According to Megan Roberts, Vice President of Experiential at Atlas Obscura, the festival is designed to “highlight the human connection to the cosmos.” Groove out to headliners Blonde Redhead, Deerhoof, and Ted Leo & the Pharmacists, then nerd out with astronomers and speakers. Live harp music will play leading up to totality. A full festival pass is $385; glamping and camping options available.
Where to stay: The historic Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa has long been at the center of the Hot Springs, Arkansas scene. You can even book a suite with the area’s mineral water piped straight into your bathtub for some pre-eclipse relaxation. Then sit down for a celebratory post-eclipse dinner at the glitzy (yet historic) Venetian Dining Room.
Bloomington, Indiana
Bloomington is smack dab in the center of totality and knows it. With 4 minutes and 3 seconds of darkness, the city has already declared that the 2024 eclipse will mark “the largest tourism event in Indiana history” and is organizing several viewing events, including a camping/music festival.
Eclipse events in Bloomington:
Switchyard Park will be the hub of eclipse activity in Bloomington. On April 8, this public park will host food trucks, a beer garden, and live tunes starting at noon. A band will cover “Dark Side of the Moon” at 2:00 pm, an hour before totality. The day before the eclipse at Switchyard Park, the Bloomington Symphony Orchestra is playing a free space-themed concert at 3:00 pm.
Where to stay: Set off a little ways from what’s sure to be a teeming downtown, the Grant Street Inn consists of 40 rooms spread across several different stately homes, most of which have pleasant front porches from where you could take in the eclipse. Heavy on charm, each room is one-of-a-kind. With a lovely complimentary breakfast and snacks, you’ll also be able to focus more on the eclipse and less on where to eat.
Cleveland, Ohio
Almost as close to the center of totality as Bloomington, Cleveland eclipse viewers will be able to enjoy the exuberance of totality for 3 minutes and 49 seconds. Baseball fans may want to snatch up tickets for the April 8 Guardians home opener game—and watch the eclipse from the stadium with free glasses during the game.
Eclipse events in Cleveland:
Hosted by the Great Lakes Science Center, the free and family-friendly Total Eclipse Fest 2024 (April 6-8) is taking place at the North Coast Harbor downtown. Live music, speakers, and hands-on science activities will be going on all day. On Sunday, April 7, at the Science Center, the Cleveland Orchestra will put on a free concert of celestially inspired classical music.
If you’re seeking more of a party vibe, head to the venue Music Box Supper club for their rooftop eclipse party, featuring live music, an all-you-can-eat buffet, and an open bar for $150.
Where to stay: Catching an eclipse from a lounge sofa on a rooftop with an espresso martini in hand? For some, that would be peak eclipse. Make it happen at the Metropolitan at the 9, Autograph Collection, where the restaurant Garden of Eden serves brunch, bites, cocktails, and a simple menu on the rooftop lounge. With its historic vibes—think dining in a bank vault—and nostalgically opulent decor, “the 9” feels as amusingly noir as the sky will be at 3:15pm.
Canandaigua, New York
For residents of New York City, one of the closest—and most pleasant—places to catch the eclipse is Canandaigua, just south of Rochester in the Finger Lakes. About a five-hour drive from the city, Canandaigua will experience two minutes and 49 seconds of totality.
Eclipse events near Canandaigua:
About 40 minutes from Canandaigua, the Rochester Museum & Science Center is hosting ROC The Eclipse Festival (April 6-8) with hands-on activities, live music, astronomy speakers, space trivia, and food trucks. Don’t miss the silent disco in the planetarium. Day tickets are $20 for adults and $18 for kids.
Where to stay: At sustainability-centric The Lake House on Canandaigua, you’ll find plenty of good spots to catch the eclipse across its idyllic, lakefront grounds. The hotel features a walking path and gorgeous outdoor pool right on Canandaigua Lake, as well as nearby hiking trails. The Lake House is even offering a solar eclipse viewing package including accommodations, a keepsake blanket, eclipse glasses, and a viewing party.
Burlington, Vermont
About as close to the center of the totality path as you can get, Burlington will bask in three minutes and 15 seconds of totality. It also offers a nice mix of urban and nature, giving you plenty of view experience options, from downtown festivities to the shores of Lake Champlain.
Eclipse events in Burlington:
Perhaps the most lighthearted eclipse event we’ve come across is the Total Eclipse of the Heart ‘80s themed party hosted by the Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain (soon to be renamed Hotel Champlain). Chase totality with a dance party, a complimentary cocktail, and passed hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are $55.
The more educationally oriented can check out the viewing event hosted by the Vermont Astronomical Society and ECHO Leahy Center, which will provide sun-oculars, telescope projections, and eclipse glasses. Hands-on activities and a pop-up eclipse exhibit will help attendees learn a thing or two about what they see in the skies. Adult tickets are $21 and kids' are $17.50.
Where to stay: With its bucolic setting near open space, Essex Resort & Spa is a great choice. Those who want to avoid heading to town for meals can take advantage of several onsite dining options. The Essex bills itself as a culinary resort, with a 4.5-star “interactive” restaurant with an award-winning wine program, a tavern with 30 brews on tap, a bakery, and culinary classes.
Montreal, Canada
While Montreal may not boast the longest totality at 1 minute, 27 seconds, it’s a win if you’re seeking a social eclipse experience. With cultural charm and a festive milieu, Montreal offers plenty of places to party and dine. To watch with the experts and score a free pair of eclipse glasses, join the Montreal Science Centre, which is the city’s official viewing location.
Eclipse events in Montreal:
Several free eclipse viewing parties are going down across Montreal, including at the Montreal Science Centre. On the McGill University campus, the Trottier Space Institute is staging an Eclipse Fair and Viewing Party with hands-on activities and booths designed for adults and kids alike. And the Montreal Planétarium will be hosting a family-friendly viewing party at Parc Jean-Drapeau with live music, educational programs, and free eclipse glasses.
Where to stay: Outdoor amenities are the thing to look for when you’re booking lodging for an eclipse trip, and the rooftop terrace of the boutique Hotel William Gray is hard to beat. Located near Montreal’s old port area, this historic hotel built in the late 18th century offers rooms with private terraces, an outdoor pool, and that rooftop terrace, where the restaurant Terrase William Gray dishes out Old World-inspired fare.