Here’s Where to Travel for the Rare Total Solar Eclipse on April 8, 2024

A total solar eclipse will appear across North America on Monday, April 8. This unique spectacle occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth, thereby blocking the sun’s light in part or completely.

While much of the continent will see a partial eclipse, the marvel of absolute darkness during the daytime will only occur in the path of totality, which crosses central Mexico, 13 US states, and eastern Canada.

According to NASA, the phenomenon won’t recur in the contiguous United States until 2044.

This rarity has spurred many to travel to prime eclipse viewpoints, which include the following destinations — several of which are hosting special events.

Here’s When and Where to See the Total Solar Eclipse

The NASA map showing the path of the solar eclipse across the US — *A NASA map showing the path of the April 8, 2024 eclipse across the US (Source:* *NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio*)

Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico

The total solar eclipse will first enter North America on Mexico’s Pacific coast. Mazatlán, located in the state of Sinaloa, Mexico, will go dark at 11:07 am PDT.

As NASA’s interactive map details, the eclipse’s totality will only last for 4 minutes and 17 seconds. But this cruise port town offers much more to visitors, including pristine beaches, an ecological reserve, and a 13-mile stretch of oceanfront retailers and restaurants.

Aerial view of the seaside of Mazatlán at sunset — *Book a seaside escape to Mazatlán,* *Mexico* *(photo: mehdi33300 / Shutterstock)*

Waco, Texas

Several Texas destinations, including the DFW metroplex and the Austin Hill Country, will fall directly in the path of totality on April 8.

This includes the city of Waco, which will host the Eclipse Over Texas: Live from Waco festival.

In addition to 4 minutes and 16 seconds of totality at 1:37 pm CDT, the event will feature educational activities and programs. Peer through on-site telescopes and attend science talks led by Lowell Observatory and Baylor University astronomers.

For more, see Sarah’s full story on how to view the solar eclipse in Texas.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Aerial view of the townscape and lush mountains in the background at dusk — *Hot Springs, Arkansas is known for its mountainous landscapes and outdoor recreation*

Hot Springs National Park is one of two US national parks within the path of totality. It and the surrounding area will see 3 minutes and 36 seconds of darkness starting at 1:49 pm CDT.

In addition to the national park’s historic bathhouses, this town is known for Lake Catherine State Park and Lake Ouachita State Park. Outdoor enthusiasts should especially consider this total eclipse destination given its hiking, camping, and boating opportunities.

Farmington, Missouri

Locals and visitors to St. Louis will find the path of totality just one hour south in the small town of Farmington, Missouri. Starting at 1:58 pm CDT, the total solar eclipse will appear for 2 minutes and 33 seconds.

Farmington may not be a tourism hotspot, but travelers can maximize their day trips by exploring several nearby parks. Enjoy swimming and off-roading at Saint Joe State Park, camping and hiking at Hawn State Park, plus fishing and rock climbing at Saint Francois State Park.

Indianapolis, Indiana

The crowd watching a NASCAR race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway — *Crowds at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (photo: ciapix / Shutterstock)*

Located three hours from Chicago and with a sizable population of its own, Indianapolis is poised to be one of the most popular solar eclipse destinations. Crowds will have their eyes on the skies at 3:06 pm CDT. The total solar eclipse will last for 3 minutes and 47 seconds.

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is one of NASA’s three television broadcast locations. Additionally, it will host a full day of programming including race car demo laps, an astronaut speaker panel, and more educational activities.

Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland attractions draw travelers in general but on April 8, astrotourism adds one more reason to visit. This Midwest city will witness the total solar eclipse for 3 minutes and 49 seconds starting at 3:13 pm EDT.

Fly in early to attend the Total Eclipse Fest 2024, which takes place from April 6-8 and is hosted by the Great Lakes Science Center in partnership with NASA Glenn Research. Speakers, concerts, concessions and more will appear throughout its North Coast Harbor venue.

Niagara Falls, New York and Canada

Aerial view of the cascading water of Niagara Falls on a sunny day — *Niagara Falls seen from* *Canada*

Niagara Falls will be all the more magical during the total solar eclipse, which will begin at 3:18 pm EDT and last for 3 minutes and 31 seconds. Places to stay in Niagara Falls are likely to be heavily booked.

Although boat tours are inoperable in April, Niagara Falls State Park has several hiking trails with unobstructed views of the falls and the sky. Starting on April 4, NASA scientists and astronauts will also be present at the park, as well as other sites throughout town.

The Eclipse Weekend Street Festival further caters to visitors with concerts, food trucks, and fireworks from April 6-8.

Burlington, Vermont

The path of totality passes through all of northern Vermont, including the lakeside city of Burlington. See the total solar eclipse for 3 minutes and 19 seconds starting at 3:26 pm EDT.

Several viewing parties will occur at multiple hotels and attractions, including the ECHO children’s science museum. Just 45 minutes outside of Burlington, Stowe Mountain Resort will grant total eclipse views from its ski lifts and springtime slopes.

Millinocket, Maine

View of the hikers on the forested trail in Baxter State Park — *A forested trail in Baxter State Park*

Millinocket will be one of the last United States destinations to see the total solar eclipse on April 8. The phenomenon will appear at 3:31 pm EDT and last for 2 minutes and 57 seconds.

This small town is best known for Baxter State Park, a spacious wilderness area with over 200 miles of hiking trails. The park is also home to Maine’s tallest peak, Mount Katahdin, which is the northern endpoint of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail — but you don’t need to be an expert hiker to witness clear views of the darkened sky.

Prince Edward Island, Canada

The total solar eclipse will appear above the northwestern half of Prince Edward Island at 4:35 pm ADT. It will be visible for about three minutes before disappearing across the Atlantic.

Summerside is situated within the path of totality and will offer prime views. It also has several lodging options and easy access to classic PEI attractions including lighthouses, beaches, and seaside eateries serving lobster rolls.

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Where will you watch this year’s total solar eclipse?

Share your top recommended destination in the comment section below.