Where to See the Total Solar Eclipse

April 8th won’t be your typical Monday. A total solar eclipse will pass through North America and plunge several states into temporary darkness – in the middle of the afternoon. 

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between Earth and the sun. This blocks the light and usually lasts for around one to four minutes. This coming Monday will see the last total solar eclipse in the United States until 2044. Amateur astronomers and casual stargazers shouldn’t miss the opportunity to experience the celestial spectacle. 

Where to Watch the Total Solar Eclipse

After entering the United States in Texas the path of totality will travel across 13 states before exiting in Maine. Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire will provide the best eclipse viewing conditions. Parts of Tennessee and Michigan are also expected to experience the eclipse. 

Visibility will be greatest providing that there is minimal cloud coverage. The New York Times has produced a cloud forecast map to help get a picture of the conditions in your local area and plan where to witness the event. 

Total Eclipse Safety 

It’s important to wear solar viewing “eclipse” glasses when looking directly at the sun. These are certified by the American Astronomical Society (AAS) and are different from regular sunglasses. 

Solar glasses are available for purchase on Amazon and in grocery stores. It’s important to stay vigilant against counterfeit glasses. A certified pair will bear the ISO 12312-2 international standard mark on the frame. 

Applying sunscreen is also recommended. 

Timings for the April Solar Eclipse

• Dallas, Texas: 1:40-1:44 p.m. CDT
• Idabel, Oklahoma: 1:45-1:49 p.m. CDT
• Little Rock, Arkansas: 1:51-1:54 p.m. CDT
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: 1:56 -2:00 p.m. CDT
• Carbondale, Illinois: 1:59- 2:03 p.m. CDT
• Paducah, Kentucky: 2:00-2:02 p.m CDT
• Evansville, Indiana: 2:02-2:05 p.m. CDT
• Cleveland, Ohio: 3:13-3:17 p.m. EDT
• Erie, Pennsylvania: 3:16-3:20 p.m. EDT
• Buffalo, New York: 3:18-3:22 p.m. EDT
• Burlington, Vermont: 3:26-3:29 p.m. EDT
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: 3:27-3:30 p.m. EDT
• Caribou, Maine: 3:32-3:34 p.m. EDT

NASA will host live coverage of the eclipse between 1:00-4:00 p.m. EDT. 

Where to stay 

If the conditions are favorable in your area, you may want to seize the opportunity to book a hotel in the path of totality. Many hotels are offering bespoke packages to celebrate the rare event. 

The Ritz-Carlton in Cleveland, Ohio, has a special package whereby guests receive a complimentary pair of eclipse glasses, a solar map, and a “Celestial Cocktail”.

The Cape Arundel Inn & Resort in Kennebunkport, Maine, enjoys a prime viewing location with a projected 95% obscuration. The Solar Eclipse Package includes complimentary mulled wine upon arrival and exclusive access to the Solar Eclipse Watch Party. You may round off your stay with a treatment at the luxury pop-up winter spa. 

Contact Darby at Darby’s Destinations to plan your next luxury staycation in the US or to plan a trip to one of the world’s best stargazing locations.