Where to Watch the Total Solar Eclipse in April 2024

Eclipse Considerations

The total solar eclipse passing over North America in April 2024 is approaching quickly. While it may be too late to find a great deal on accommodations, it's not too late to make plans to see the eclipse.

The path of totality, where the moon will completely block the sun, will be about 115 miles (185 kilometers) wide and will pass through Mexico, several US states, and eastern Canada. However, keep in mind that the weather in April is less likely to be clear than during the 2017 eclipse in August.

For the best chances of clear skies, many eclipse enthusiasts are heading to Mexico or Texas. The closer you are to the center line of the path, the longer totality will last.

Eclipse Viewing Options

If you plan to stay just outside the path of totality and drive in on the day of the eclipse, be prepared for heavy traffic in many areas. To avoid this, it's recommended to arrive early. Additionally, consider your priorities when choosing a viewing location. Do you want to prioritize good weather, proximity to your home, or the opportunity to explore a new city?

Accommodations within the path of totality are in high demand, but there are still options available. Airbnb searches for April 8 have surged by nearly 300%, but there are still highly rated, reliable properties available for bookings during that time.

Hotels in towns with limited lodging and big eclipse plans may be more expensive, with prices exceeding $500 a night. Camping is also an option in some areas where accommodations are heavily booked.

Destination Ideas

Here are a few ideas for where to watch the total solar eclipse in April 2024:

1. Torreón, Mexico: This city in Coahuila offers one of the longest durations of totality, nearly four and a half minutes. It's considered a good weather spot and has affordable Airbnb listings.

2. Mazatlán, Mexico: Located on the Pacific coast of Sinaloa, Mazatlán offers good odds for clear weather. It also has a historic center and beaches for visitors to enjoy.

3. Llano, Texas: This small town in the Texas Hill Country is expecting a large influx of visitors for the eclipse. While accommodations are limited, camping and RV sites are still available.

4. Indianapolis, Indiana: Positioned along the center line of the path of totality, Indianapolis is hosting various eclipse events and still has affordable lodging options downtown.

5. Cleveland, Ohio: Cleveland, located along Lake Erie, offers multiple vantage points along the shoreline. The city is hosting free viewing events at parks and museums.

6. Rochester, New York: Rochester is close to the center line and is organizing ticketed eclipse festivals. Some rooms and hotel packages are still available in the city.

7. Niagara region, Ontario, Canada: The area around Niagara Falls will have free public viewing events, and there are still some accommodations available nearby.

Tips and Recommendations

To safely observe the eclipse, make sure to use eclipse glasses that meet ISO safety standards.

If you haven't made plans yet, keep an eye on the weather forecasts leading up to the eclipse, and be prepared to make a last-minute decision on your viewing location. Some eclipse enthusiasts have made multiple bookings and will decide on their final location as the forecast becomes clearer.

Remember, the total solar eclipse in April 2024 is a highly anticipated event, so available accommodations and viewing spots may become more limited as the date approaches.