Have you heard about the solar eclipse of 2024? If you’re in North America, it’s likely you have. That’s because the 2024 solar eclipse is special. Why? Well, not only is it going to be visible from many parts of the USA, but it’s “total.” That means some states will observe 4 full minutes of darkness in the afternoon on April 8, 2024, as the moon completely covers the sun.
The atmospheric occurrence is so rare that the cities and towns within the coveted “Path of Totality” have been preparing a celestial celebration — for years! So, round up the kids, dust off your map, and take your Greenvans rental van to the best places to see total solar eclipse 2024!
Texas
The Lone Star State will take center stage on April 8th as the moon overlaps the sun. The Texas eclipse will start in Del Rio at 1:30 p.m. CST and continue on a northwesterly path toward Dallas. Here, you’ll have the chance to see total coverage of the sun from about 1:40 p.m. – 1:44 p.m. CST.
The expansive landscape of Texas and little light pollution in Hill Country makes it a truly exceptional destination to witness the once-in-a-century event. Watch the eclipse from a traditional cattle ranch in Bandera, known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World.”
If you’d like something more social, drive just 30 minutes north to Kerrville for viewing from its historic downtown and scenic Guadalupe River. Towns such as Waco and Temple will set up observation locations specifically for the Texas eclipse 2024, complete with food trucks and water stations.
What’s the 2024 eclipse path through Texas?
From cowboy country to posh cities like Dallas and Austin, a trip to Texas is a wild one. Only here can you watch a rodeo, go to a winery, eat Michelin quality food, and top it all off with a once-in-a-lifetime event like the Solar Eclipse 2024.
The best places in Texas to see 2024 eclipse are going to be:
- San Antonio
- Austin
- Fredericksburg
- Kerrville
- Waco
- Dallas
When the eclipse is over, the fun doesn’t have to end! Enhance your Texas eclipse 2024 experience by embarking on a road trip along Highway 83. Rent a spacious passenger van so you and your family can explore the Wild West in total comfort.
Ohio
One of the best places to see the celestial clash is on the lively coast of Ohio. Between trips to the water park and spins through art museums, Lake Erie’s seaside resorts are flush with spring activities directly in the Path of Totality. Towns located in and close to Shores & Islands will enjoy up to 3 minutes and 54 seconds of complete blackout on April 8th.
Before and after the solar eclipse of 2024, Ohio will be hosting a series of events to keep the party going. Enjoy an array of art exhibits, festivals, and mini-retreats to harness the energy of this atmospheric phenomenon. Even wineries are getting in on the fun, with Lonz Winery and Vine & Olive throwing viewing parties and tastings.
What’s the 2024 eclipse path through Ohio?
Ohio is in a prime position to witness the 2024 Solar Eclipse. The Path of Totality’s journey over Lake Erie means those buzzing coastal towns are ideal places to watch. Whether you want to live it up in a big city like Cleveland or participate in something sophisticated on Put-In-Bay Island, you’ll love your trip to the Buckeye State.
The best places to see the 2024 eclipse in Ohio are:
- Cleveland
- Sandusky
- Vermilion
- Fremont
- Huron
- Put-In-Bay
- Kelleys Island
Make this family vacation one to remember by turning it into an exciting road trip. Rent a van in Philadelphia and follow our amazing family itinerary to the Buckeye State.
Indiana
Can you imagine watching the moon completely cover the shining sun from the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway? Well, you can, if you plan a family road trip along the 2024 eclipse path in Indiana.
The last time Indiana experienced such an event was over 800 years ago, so this year’s celebration will be one for the books. Wayne County promises watch parties and educational workshops when you’re not biking the local trails or wandering Antique Alley. Terre Haute’s got live music and art exhibitions to enjoy in between a self-guided tour of its many bright, outdoor murals.
As mentioned, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is hosting a grand watch party in collaboration with NASA and Purdue University and will be broadcast worldwide.
What’s the 2024 eclipse path through Indiana?
More than just the home of “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,” Indiana’s Midwest charm makes it a wonderful place to view the 2024 Solar Eclipse. From camping in Terre Haute to exploring the cultural capital, you’ll have plenty to do before and after the main event!
The following Indiana cities and towns will experience a total eclipse:
- Mount Vernon
- Evansville
- Bloomington
- Indianapolis
- Connersville
- Portland
New York
When considering the itinerary for the Solar Eclipse 2024, NY should be top of your list. Much of upstate is centered in the Path of Totality, so set your sights on destinations north of the Big Apple.
The eclipse is the perfect opportunity for you and your family to explore the region in a rental van from our New York office. Enjoy a few days in the city before hitting the road toward the Adirondacks or Niagara Falls for the April 8 spectacle.
Jamestown, home of Lucille Ball, will be the first town to experience full totality right before the clock strikes 3:18 p.m. Just an hour north is Buffalo, a vibrant urban hub that sits below Niagara Falls. Alternatively, Saranac Lake and Lake Placid, located a 7 hours’ drive northeast from Jamestown, will experience a complete blackout at 3:24 p.m. and offer plenty to do for Olympic enthusiasts and nature lovers.
What’s the 2024 eclipse path through New York?
Whether you want to experience Solar Eclipse 2024 in Buffalo, NY for its lively atmosphere, Syracuse for the delicious dining, or Lake Placid for its array of things to do, you will not be disappointed in the great state of New York.
The Path of Totality will cover the following cities (no pun intended):
- Jamestown
- Buffalo
- Rochester
- Syracuse
- Saranac Lake
- Lake Placid
If what you want is a truly unique and unparalleled experience, plan your Solar Eclipse 2024 in Niagara Falls. Watching the moon cover the sun in America’s oldest 400-acre state park while listening to the roaring waterfalls is a memory guaranteed to stay etched in your mind forever.
Pennsylvania
The next eclipse in Pennsylvania won’t take place until 2079, so this might be your only chance to catch a glimpse of nature’s phenomenon in the Keystone State. The Path of Totality will pass along the northwestern border and over Lake Erie.
It’s the ideal opportunity to rent a van in Philadelphia and make your Solar Eclipse 2024 adventure a memorable one. From Philly, drive through the beautiful landscapes of Amish Country, stopping in Lancaster for a bite or an overnight. Continue west to Pittsburgh, only 2 hours south of Erie, where you can visit the Carnegie Museum of Natural History and indulge in a famous Primanti Brothers sandwich.
What’s the 2024 eclipse path through Pennsylvania?
In Erie, PA, Eclipse 2024 is going to be a celebration. Since it’s the only major city in Pennsylvania where the eclipse can be viewed in totality, there are a multitude of events scheduled. Enjoy your visit to Erie with plenty of children’s fairs, block parties, and free viewing in the parks and local breweries.
Maine
Maine is always a good idea. Solar Eclipse 2024 in Maine is an even better one! The Path of Totality will pass through the center of the state, so you can explore the farms, wildlife and forests of pines for which it is so well known. Towns in Aroostook County are planning major celebrations for this once-in-a-lifetime event which will start around 3:00 p.m.
The fun doesn’t need to end when the sun comes back out! With a rental van, you can discover all the regional gems highlighted in our Maine road trip guide, like the thriving seaside town of Portland and the stunning waterfalls of Acadia National Park.
What’s the 2024 eclipse path through Maine?
Choosing where to watch the Solar Eclipse of 2024 in Maine might not be the easiest decision, but rest assured that you’ll be happy no matter where you end up!
What’s more, special “Star Parks” are being organized in the following cities to ensure a comfortable and unforgettable viewing experience:
- Caribou
- Presque Isle
- Houlton
- Millinocket
Rent a passenger van in Boston and go for a lovely ride up Maine’s coast to Millinocket. The drive is just 5 hours and showcases amazing roadside attractions, from New England lighthouses to classic lobster shacks.
Vermont
There’s nothing like watching a celestial event of this magnitude while surrounded by giant mountains, rolling hills, and clear skies. April in Vermont isn’t just crisp and sunny — the Green Mountains are often still covered with snow, meaning you could turn your Vermont Eclipse 2024 experience into a family ski trip. Top it off with overnights in charming towns like Stowe and Burlington and you’re in for an eclipse experience of a lifetime.
Choose from a bunch of unique activities like 80s parties, airfield watch festivals, and symphony concerts all throughout the Path of Totality. Vermont is a beautiful state, so be sure to factor in time to drive to some of the national parks and hike part of the Appalachian Trail.
What’s the 2024 eclipse path through Vermont?
The Path of Totality travels over many of Vermont’s traditional mountain villages, each prepared to throw a celebration for all to love. If you’re looking to catch the last of the ski season, check out Stowe. If you prefer a waterfront view, head to Burlington.
Alternatively, you can visit all the charming towns within Maine’s Path of Totality, including:
- Burlington
- Stowe
- Montpelier
- St. Johnsbury
Quality time in a quality van
Let’s be real — this might be your only chance to see a total solar eclipse. Take advantage of the once-in-a-lifetime occurrence by planning an equally unforgettable adventure with your family to see it.
It doesn’t matter where you go — the mountains of Maine, cowboy country in Texas, thundering Niagara Falls — all that matters is that you go. Together. In the comfort and safety of a Greenvans passenger van. Wherever you are in the USA, we will ensure you arrive in style to whichever destination you choose.
Plan your Solar Eclipse 2024 trip with Greenvans!
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