Eclipse chasers, it’s your time to shine! The total solar eclipse is taking place on April 8th 2024 and is sure to astound anyone who gets the chance to view it. This time around, parts of Mexico, Canada, and North America are first in line to get a glimpse of this astronomical spectacle.
Let’s take a look at where you can get a view of the total eclipse in 2024 to ensure you have your glasses at the ready to take in this fascinating event, only to take place again in the US in 2044. This is a once in a lifetime for many, so be sure to grab a front row seat.
Austin
If you happen to be travelling around Austin, Texas on the 8th of April, you’re in luck. Just a mere 68 miles from Austin in the quiet town of Lampasas, you can enjoy nearly 4.5 minutes of totality, where the sun and moon will be in direct alignment, darkening this part of the earth.
The solar eclipse will start just after 12:18 local time, giving you enough time to head back to Austin for a celebration at one of the many lively hotspots in the city centre. Be sure to leave enough time to explore “The Live Music Capital of the World”, offering more music venues per capita, than anywhere else in the US.
San Antonio
For the best viewing of the April 8 2024 total eclipse in San Antonio, head to Kerrville, a small town about one hour outside the city centre. Here, you’ll be in a pristine position to experience nearly 4.5 minutes of shadow. The metro area won’t see much unfortunately, with the main terminal of the airport only having a partial eclipse for a mere 30 seconds.
Once the eclipse has passed, it’s time to head back to San Antonio, a hotspot for history hunters looking for an adventure. The UNESCO World Heritage site, the Alamo Mission, is a fantastic historical marvel for those on holiday in San Antonio. The River Walk is a magical place, winding through downtown San Antonio, offering a scenic pathway through many must see restaurants, bars, and attractions.
Dallas
Holidays to Dallas are already full of heart thumping excitement. As the home to the Dallas Cowboys, you can bet your boots visitors love visiting this part of Texas when the big games come alive. Dallas also hosts a range of festivities throughout the year, including the State Fair of Texas from the end of September, through to October 22nd. But the fun doesn’t stop there with Dallas gearing up for a harrowing Halloween, with the Downtown Dallas Arts District Zombie Walk and the Cedar Springs Road Halloween Parade.
Another thing on the Dallas holiday checklist for 2024 is the solar eclipse. Downtown Dallas will experience a deep partial solar eclipse, with parts of the sky going dark. But if you want the full solar eclipse experience, Hillsboro is about one hour’s drive away, putting you in line for nearly 4.5 minutes of an all out eclipse extravaganza.
To experience more of what Texas has to offer in one holiday, consider American Holidays’ Great Texas Escape Fly Drive. This 12 night Texas holiday adventure features the best of what the Lone Star State has to offer.
Fort Worth
Strap your boots and get ready for a real cowboy adventure in Fort Worth, Texas. Famous for its authentic Western experience, you’re sure to have a few “howdy partners” in this neck of the woods. Whether you’re heading to the rodeo, exploring the bustling downtown area, or exploring the expansive outdoors and its many adventures, Fort Worth offers something for everyone.
Fort Worth is lucky enough to be on the path of totality, but you need to know where to go. For the longest duration of totality, you’re best off heading to Arlington for just over three minutes of darkness. Alternatively, Manfield will have nearly 4 whole minutes to experience totality. Downtown Fort Worth will get around 2.5 minutes of darkness, starting at 13:41.
Rochester
If you’re in New York over April 8th, Rochester is a fantastic view site for the full eclipse. The city falls almost right on the centreline. Rochester will have just over 3.5 minutes of totality, so if the weather plays along, will be a fantastic spot to see the full eclipse. Totality will start just after 15:20.
New York holidays offer the epitome of city breaks. Restaurants on every corner, bustling bars, shopping extravaganzas, and a host of fun activities for every traveller. Whether you’re travelling solo, looking for a romantic holiday, or want to soak in the Big Apple with the whole family, New York holidays have it all with its famous city buzz and sparkling lights to match.
Your 2024 Eclipse Questions Answered
What is the path of totality?
The path of totality refers to the part of the earth that plunges into darkness. At this exact point, the moon completely covers the sun, being in direct alignment with the sun’s disk.
When is the next solar eclipse?
The 2024 solar eclipse will take place on April 8th. The next full eclipse to pass over North America will only happen in 2044.
Is it safe to look at a solar eclipse?
It’s important to remember that looking directly at the sun can cause extreme damage to your eyes. For this purpose, solar filters are available, allowing you to look to the sky without risking damage, but they must be certified. Only during the precise moment of totality can you safely look at the sun without solar filters.
Discover More with American Holidays
At American Holidays we have over 35 years’ experience in tailoring holidays to the USA, Canada, Mexico and Alaska. Start planning your trip today and get ready to be amazed by this unique experience.
