9 Destinations With A Perfect View Of The Total Eclipse
Credit: Hannah Huber
ICYMI a major eclipse is moving right over North America on April 8th. Astro travel is a big deal in 2024 and the Great American Eclipse is attracting visitors from all over the world for a weekend getaway along the Path of Totality to witness the celestial event of the century. Pack your eclipse glasses and head to one of these fab destinations before they sell out!
Credit: Courtesy of Hotel Magdalena
Austin, TX
Totality: 100%
Duration: 1:36 pm CST lasting 1 minute, 53 seconds.
Where to Stay: Hotel Magdalena is effortlessly trendy and filled with special touches from cute striped robes for lounging by the pool to a trippy vinyl bar that fits right in with the creative vibe of the city.
Eclipse Happenings: From Vampire Weekend performing at Waterloo Park to public presentations by astronomy experts, Austin is going all in on eclipse activities.
Where to Eat: If you’ve had your fill of classic Texan cuisine, make a reservation at Craft Omakase for a 22-course tasting menu (yes you read that right) steeped in Japanese tradition.
Credit: Matthew Chambers
Dallas, TX
Totality: 100%
Duration: 1:40 pm CST lasting 3 minutes, 47 seconds.
Where to Stay: It’s only natural that Virgin Dallas is at the epicenter of the most anticipated astronomical event of the century! Book the Total Eclipse package for a memorable stay with all the essentials you’ll need to see the big show.
Eclipse Happenings: Book a cabana at the rooftop pool’s Total Eclipse Viewing Party to luxuriate in style during this once in a lifetime celestial event.
Where to Eat: Indulge in the ultimate charcuterie board at the Petra and the Beast before diving into their hearty (and sustainable) farm-to-table menu.
Credit: Courtesy of the Capital Hotel
Little Rock, AR
Totality: 100%
Duration: 12:33 pm CST lasting 2 minutes, 33 seconds.
Where to Stay: Classic southern style lives in the prestigious Capital Hotel. Dubbed Little Rock’s “front porch”, you’ll love the historical design elements and old school hospitality to add authenticity to your weekend away.
Eclipse Happenings: Little Rock is going all in on eclipse parties setting up viewing areas from downtown to along the Arkansas River.
Where to Eat: Little Rock’s food scene is on the rise and there is no shortage of delicious places to eat. For a laid back meal, stop into The Fold: Botanas Bar, a trendy Mexican-inspired eatery housed in an old repair shop and filling station, for a delicious cocktail and tacos.
Credit: Courtesy of Visit Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN
Totality: 100%
Duration: 3:06 pm EST lasting 3 minutes, 46 seconds.
Where to Stay: Steeped in art deco elegance, the historical Bottleworks Hotel embodies modern luxury while paying homage to a bygone era. The former Coca-Cola bottling plant keeps its industrial roots while hosting guests in the lap of luxury.
Eclipse Happenings: Head over to the infamous Indianapolis Motor Speedway to join NASA experts for a live Q&A as you watch the eclipse pass overhead.
Where to Eat: Treat yourself to a night out at Beholder for a tasting menu and wine pairing that you will be dreaming of long after your trip.
Credit: Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Cleveland
Cleveland, OH
Totality: 100% Totality
Duration: 3:13 pm EST lasting 3 minutes, 50 seconds.
Where to Stay: Book the Solar Eclipse package at The Ritz Carlton Cleveland for astronomy-themed fun dripping in all the luxuries you’d expect from the Ritz brand. Think Club Level accommodations, specialty cocktails, and a bespoke keepsake to remember your stay.
Eclipse Happenings: Rock out during the eclipse at the weekend long Solarfest at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The bucket list museum is pulling out all the stops with extended hours, special live performances, and showcasing special archival astronomy artifacts in honor of the eclipse.
Where to Eat: Channel some grandma energy and indulge in the outstanding comfort food menu at Cordelia.
Credit: Courtesy of the Curtiss Hotel
Buffalo, NY
Totality: 100% Totality
Duration: 3:18 pm EST lasting 3 minutes, 45 seconds.
Where to Stay: Book a stay at the Curtiss Hotel for a boutique luxury experience. With amenities like an Urban Hotspring and on-site chop house, you might forget to pop outside to view the eclipse!
Eclipse Happenings: Grab front row seats to the celestial event of the century at the Curtiss Hotel’s VUE Rooftop Eclipse Party. You’ll get a buffet lunch, protective eyewear, and exclusive use of the sprawling rooftop!
Where to Eat: Whether you are looking for a snack or a beautiful multicourse meal, Waxlight bar a’ vin sets the scene for romantic vibes and pairing your cravings with the perfect wine.
Credit: Courtesy of Hotel Vermont
Burlington, VT
Totality: 100%
Duration: 3:26 pm EST lasting 3 minutes, 14 seconds.
Where to Stay: Modern minimalism blends with natural design elements in airy guest rooms to showcase the beauty of the Vermont landscape at Hotel Vermont.
Eclipse Happenings: If you aren’t out exploring the many nature hikes for the perfect vantage point, head over to the Van Ness Terrace at Hotel Vermont for a view of the eclipse, custom cocktails, and live music.
Where to Eat: Toe the line between fine dining and comforting artisanal flavors at the farm-to-table restaurant, Bramble. Did I mention their cocktail game is on point?!
Credit: Courtesy of Cape Arundel Inn & Resort
Kennebunkport, ME
Totality: 95%
Duration: Reaches peak at 3:30 pm EST
Where to Stay: Book the Solar Eclipse package at Cape Arundel Inn & Resort. In addition to stunning seaside views, you’ll receive a 15% room discount, early check-in, tickets to the Solar Eclipse viewing party, and a variety of welcome amenities worthy of an astonomy themed getaway.
Eclipse Happenings: At Cape Arundel Inn & Resort’s Solar Eclipse Party, you’ll get protective eyewear, a wellness journal, a custom cocktail, light snacks, and uninterrupted picturesque views.
Where to Eat: There are so many amazing places to eat in Kennebunkport, but you MUST visit the Boathouse Restaurant for an elevated take on classic New England cuisine with a seaside view. If you need a more vibey spot, go down The Rabbit Hole for a speakeasy style nightcap.
Credit: Courtesy of Hôtel William Gray
Montréal, Québec
Totality: 100%
Duration: 3:26 pm EST lasting 1 minute, 12 seconds.
Where to Stay: The Hôtel William Gray has everything you need for an authentic and opulent stay in Montréal. The Living Room serves as the heart of the hotel, giving guests the opportunity to mingle and enjoy the library, pool table, and bar.
Eclipse Happenings: The Montréal Science Centre is the ideal place to watch the moon’s shadow eclipse the sun. The center will provide special eyewear, activities, and tons of astrological information for visitors. Did I mention it’s free?!
Where to Eat: When in Montréal, go French or go home. Mastard, helmed by renowned Chef Simon Mathys, offers a 5-course tasting menu and wine pairing that perfectly encapsulates the bustling metropolis.
