Your Last-Minute Travel Guide for April's Total Solar Eclipse

In just a few weeks, eyes will turn skyward as the moon obscures the sun in a spectacular event known as a total solar eclipse. This occurrence is scheduled for April 8, 2024, and the next opportunity to witness one from the contiguous United States will be August 2044. It's no surprise that eclipse excitement is sweeping the nation, with estimates of 1 to 4 million travelers heading to the path of totality, adding to the 31 million residents already there.

With various tours, cruises, hotels, and even scenic flights offering unique eclipse experiences, here are six essential tips for those planning at the last minute for this special event.

1. Determine Your Destination

This year's eclipse will cross 13 U.S. states: Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine (with small sections of Tennessee and Michigan also in the path). Totality will be visible in two national parks—Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas and Cuyahoga National Park in Ohio—which are likely to be quite crowded. Consider opting for one of the over 100 state parks along the path that may be less well-known. For city enthusiasts, major urban areas like San Antonio, Austin, Cleveland, and Rochester will also provide great views of totality.

Don't forget to factor in the weather. Based on NOAA’s historical data, April tends to have a higher likelihood of rain—leading to increased chances of cloud cover—in the Northeast compared to the South.

2. Pay Attention to the Duration of Totality

Choosing a location within the path of totality is essential, but the duration of totality will vary depending on your exact spot. Areas closer to the center of the path will experience a longer total eclipse. For example, Austin and Dallas are both in the path, but Austin will enjoy 1 minute and 46 seconds of totality, while Dallas will get 3 minutes and 52 seconds. The maximum duration possible is about 4 minutes and 30 seconds. Ideal locations for maximizing your time in darkness include towns in Texas Hill Country such as Kerrville (around 4 minutes and 24 seconds of totality and partnering with NASA) and Fredericksburg (approximately 4 minutes and 23 seconds of totality). Texas Hill Country is also among Dinogo’s top recommended destinations for 2024.

3. Think About Camping

If you prefer to experience the solar eclipse immersed in nature rather than crowds, camping might be your best option. However, securing spots at established campgrounds in state parks and popular natural sites may be challenging at this late stage. Instead, consider exploring private land through platforms like Hipcamp or seek out dispersed camping areas in national forests, such as Ozark National Forest or Green Mountain National Forest. While these backcountry sites may lack amenities, they offer a tranquil escape for those seeking solitude.

Additionally, be mindful of a park’s capacity to manage the expected surge of visitors on April 8. For instance, Erie’s tourism board is advising against visits to Presque Isle State Park to avoid congestion at its single entry and exit point.

4. Explore Local Towns, Festivals, or Last-Minute Tours

Many locations within the path of totality are organizing their own unique celebrations for the solar eclipse. Experience educational programming at the Rochester Museum & Science Center’s ROC the Eclipse Festival, a three-day event featuring talks such as “Frontiers of Plasma Physics” and “The Search for Earth-Like Planets” by leading scientists. Alternatively, enjoy the grandeur of the four-day Texas Eclipse Festival in Burnet, Texas, which includes music performances, yoga classes, and immersive art experiences. (If you’re traveling to Texas for the eclipse, be sure to check out this interactive map of special events taking place throughout the state.)

If just thinking about organizing your trip feels overwhelming, consider looking into available solar eclipse tours. Some options are still open, such as Holland America Line’s extensive 22-day Solar Eclipse cruise tour across North America. Others, like Travel Quest’s Mexico’s Copper Canyon Total Solar Eclipse tour, currently only have spots on a waitlist. However, don’t lose hope—last-minute cancellations can happen, so a quick phone call might secure you a place.

5. Seek Last-Minute Hotel Availability in the Path of Totality

Hotels are also embracing the solar eclipse experience, with many hosting celebrations and special events just for the occasion. Miraval Austin Resort and Spa will feature a viewing session with its astrologer, while Hôtel Swexan in Dallas is offering solar eclipse wellness activities on the evening of April 8, including meditation, a sound bath, and Reiki healing sessions.

Be aware that booking last minute might come with a hefty price tag. Properties throughout the path of totality are seeing sky-high rates—even budget hotels. Just like with tours, it’s wise to do your research and call to inquire about any cancellations.

6. Be Prepared

It’s essential to wear solar eclipse glasses to protect your eyes from permanent damage. If you’re attending an event, verify whether glasses will be supplied or if you need to bring your own. If purchasing them isn’t an option, you can create a pinhole projector using everyday materials like cardboard to safely observe the sun as the moon obscures it.

Besides bringing supplies for the event itself, consider what comes after. While the totality lasts under five minutes, post-eclipse traffic can severely impact your plans for hours. If you're departing from a busy park or city, it’s wise to be ready with extra snacks and water.