Get Ready for a Spectacular Show! On April 8, 2024, the U.S. will be treated to its second total solar eclipse in seven years. However, totality will only be visible in parts of 15 U.S. states
Get ready for a spectacular cosmic event on April 8, 2024! The U.S. is in for a treat with a total solar eclipse, where the moon gracefully moves in front of the sun, creating a temporary daytime darkness and offering a glimpse of the sun’s corona. Our last celestial show like this was on August 21, 2017, and the memories are still fresh.
Seven years ago, the eclipse path was in remote areas, but this time it will grace vast cities and metropolitan areas from Texas to Maine. Only within this path can you witness totality for an impressive 4 minutes and 26 seconds!
We’ve got your back with the best spots in 15 U.S. states to catch this celestial magic. These suggestions consider factors like the longest duration of totality, proximity to the centerline, favorable climate, scenic beauty, tranquility, and even organized events.
Here are some quick tips:
- We skipped Kentucky, Tennessee, and Michigan as the path barely touches them.
- Your best viewing spot is wherever the sky is clear in the path of totality.
- If you can be spontaneous, check the weather a few days before; around April 1 and definitely by April 5 is a good time.
Tyler Nordgren, an astronomer and eclipse artist, suggests, “Go somewhere you’ve always wanted to visit — that way, you won’t be disappointed. But, really, just go wherever you can get to in the path of totality.”
And remember, safety first! NEVER look directly at the Sun. Always use solar filters for viewing, except during the brief moment of totality when the sun is entirely covered.
Now, let’s explore some recommended spots in different states:
TEXAS:
- Radar Base (1:27 p.m. CDT, 4 minutes, 26 seconds): First to experience totality!
- Texclipse Music Festival, Junction (1:34 p.m. CDT, 3 minutes, 10 seconds): Best climatological prospects for a clear sky.
- Ground Zero Music Festival, Bandera (1:31 p.m. CDT, 4 minutes, 9 seconds): 20 bands, a full cowboy rodeo, stunt shows, and a car and truck show. Could it be any more Texan?
OKLAHOMA:
- Beavers Bend State Park, Hochatown (1:46 p.m. CDT; 4 minutes, 13 seconds): Nature and serenity by Broken Bow Lake.
- Hochatown State Park (1:46 p.m. CDT; 4 minutes, 13 seconds): Stay close with nearby accommodation.
- Red Slough WMA, Idabel (1:45 p.m. CDT; 4 minutes 15 seconds): 2,400 acres of wetlands near the border with Texas and Arkansas.
ARKANSAS:
- Hot Springs National Park (1:49 p.m. CDT; 3 minutes, 43 seconds): One of two official national parks in the path.
- Total Eclipse of the Heart Festival, Russellville (1:50 p.m. CDT, 4 minutes 10 seconds): Blues music, hot air balloons, and BBQ are promised.
- Mount Ida (1:48 p.m. CDT; 4 minutes, 15 seconds): Rock shops and private mines allow visitors to search for their own crystals.
