Over many millennia, the narrative of the total solar eclipse was surrounded by mythology. Derived from the Greek —roughly translatingas “to disappear or abandon”—the word eclipse has struck awe (and sometimes fear) in the hearts of many civilizations. The ancient Chinese believed a celestial dragon was swallowing the sun, and that it predicted the future of the emperor. Native Americans of the Chippewa tribe toward the sky to replenish the sun’s supposed extinguished flames. The phenomena commanded such reverence that Greek historian Herodotus cited a total solar eclipse as bringing an end to a years-long war between the Lydians and the Medes (“when they observed the change, ceased fighting, and were alike anxious to have terms of peace agreed on”). In Homer’s the poet wrote of a total solar eclipse: “The sun has perished out of heaven and an evil mist hovers over all.” In more recent years, it’s lost much of that mystical, fascinating lore, but still presents boundless opportunities for scientific research. In 1919, a total solar eclipse helped to prove Einstein’s by measuring how images of stars shift when the sun is close. Even now, this astronomical event has allowed scientists to observe a great deal, gleaning insights about our universe, and of space and time. (According to NASA, a team of researchers once chased an eclipse’s path in a high-speed jet.) If your knowledge of a total solar eclipse extends about as far as a DIY pinhole projector, a brief refresher: When the
moon passes between the sun and earth and blocks the view of the sun, that’s when a total solar eclipse takes place. The ‘path of totality’ is the track where the moon’s shadow falls on Earth, resulting in a dark sky for a brief period throughout the day depending on where you are. It’s in this path that you also have the opportunity to witness the sun’s outer atmosphere (called the corona). The will take place on April 8 and won’t be visible in the
United States again until 2044. Tourism surrounding the celestial event has already attracted an impressive level of interest. shows a 1,000% increase in searches for accommodation along the path of totality, and when Delta announced a special from Austin to Detroit routed to effectively ‘chase’ the path of totality, all 130 seats sold out in less than 24 hours. It’s unsurprising so much attention is being paid. Basking in the eerie glow of a total solar eclipse has a feeling of pure astonishment. The sun is engulfed, the sky dips into darkness, and the frenetic sounds of confused crickets, katydids, and cicadas come into focus. It’s unlike any other experience you’ll ever have. So, in the spirit of adventure and transformative experiences, read ahead for our travel guide to witnessing this year’s total solar eclipse. Before you go, don’t forget to brush up on , like using a special-purpose solar filter secured over your optics until the total phase of the eclipse begins—that’s when you can take them off for a few minutes to take it all in. for an interactive map of the 2024 total solar eclipse’s path of totality.
Mexico The first location to experience totality in continental North America will be Mexico’s Pacific coast (at around 11:07 a.m. PDT). The Griffith Observatory Foundation in partnership with Insider Expeditions is hosting an through the country that culminates in an eclipse viewing in Mazatlán with a celebratory dinner to follow. (Totality arrives at 12:07 p.m. and lasts for almost four-and-a-half minutes.) Participants will also have the opportunity to tour Aztec pyramids, ancient ruins, and ride a scenic cable car overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Dallas and Austin,
Texas Next up on the path is the Lone Star state. If you gravitate toward Austin, luxury travel company has curated an itinerary themed to the celestial occasion, beginning with a stay at and a stargazing party on the property’s lawn attended by astronomers and eclipse-chasers alike. Clients will experience unobstructed views of the eclipse at the 300-acre Mirasol Springs Ranch with astronomical activities, live music, and a “Texas ranch meets Moroccan style desert camp lunch.” An hour-and-a-half west of Austin in picturesque Texas Hill Country, several vineyards are hosting eclipse viewing parties, as outlined on . For those heading to Dallas, you’ll enjoy nearly four minutes of totality in downtown, beginning at 1:40 p.m. CDT. At complimentary glasses will be provided for safely viewing the eclipse and a curation of planetary films will be available. For those who prefer a more rustic approach, nearby is hosting an eclipse party at its 609-acre park with overnight camping passes available. Little Rock and Hot Springs, Arkansas Enjoy almost three minutes of totality while lounging on the crescent lawn at the in Little Rock. The museum is throwing a viewing party with complimentary eclipse glasses, a live DJ, and a performance by Ballet Arkansas. Before and after the eclipse, guests can explore celestial-themed artwork in the galleries. Less than an hour’s drive west in Hot Springs, Atlas Obscura is hosting a four-day
music and science festival called , with performances by the Allah-Las and Fred Armisen and the option to book a canvas glamping tent furnished with a comfortable bed and Pendleton wool blankets. Bloomington, Indiana Over four minutes of totality will ensue in this that’s home to Indiana University and nearby Hoosier National Forest. Viewing parties range from tranquil setups at local wineries and drive-in theaters to a lively street party at the WonderLab Museum. While in town, swing by the Monroe County History Center for their exhibition highlighting and comparing the 1869 total solar eclipse and 2024’s, with a look at scientific and cultural responses to the celestial event. Cleveland, Ohio Beginning at 1:59 p.m. and lasting for almost four minutes, Cleveland offers a unique opportunity to witness the eclipse from a metropolitan city center. (It won’t be in the path of totality again until the year 2044). is hosting a three-day outdoor celestial celebration, including a free classical concert performed by the Cleveland Orchestra set to the ethereal tunes of Mozart, Debussy, and Beethoven (no tickets required). Niagara Falls,
New York Among the more magnificent settings for the total solar eclipse, Niagara Falls is the epitome of prime viewing. Enjoy programming from
NASA astronauts and scientists throughout the area and book a ticket for one of many experiences to celebrate the occasion. (This eclipse event at sounds particularly leisurely: enjoy a fresh sandwich and pour of wine on the large lawn as totality begins at 2:05 p.m. and lasts for three-and-a-half minutes.) Burlington, Vermont Revered for its natural splendor, is one of Vermont’s loveliest towns for viewing the eclipse, overlooking Lake Champlain with the majestic Adirondack mountains towering in the distance. Totality will last for three minutes and 19 seconds and a number of events, such as artist markets and downtown festivals, will help you make a day of it. Attend a viewing party at one of the region’s picturesque vineyards or even board a cruise to see the eclipse from the lake—there’s plenty planned for the occasion. Quebec,
Canada Set on the shore of Lake Massawippi, is a historic estate in southwestern Quebec, Canada. It’s set in the path of totality and will be hosting a viewing event from its lakefront gardens. Expect special glasses sourced from Mont-Megantic—the world’s first international Dark Sky Reserve. Guests can take in the eclipse by land or by lake, there are complimentary kayaks, paddle boats, and even a pontoon boat for rent.