So, in the spirit of adventure and transformative experiences, continue ahead for our travel guide to witnessing this year’s total solar eclipse. Before you go, don’t forget to brush up on eye safety guidelines, like using a special-purpose solar filter secured over your optics until the total phase of the eclipse begins—that’s when you can take them off for a few minutes to take it all in.
Click here for a map of the 2024 total solar eclipse’s path of totality.
Mexico
The first location to experience totality in continental North America will be Mexico’s Pacific coast (at around 11:07 a.m. PDT). The Griffith Observatory Foundation in partnership with Insider Expeditions is hosting an eight-day adventure through the country that culminates in an eclipse viewing in Mazatlán with a celebratory dinner to follow. (Totality arrives at 12:07 p.m. and lasts for almost four-and-a-half minutes.) Participants will also have the opportunity to tour Aztec pyramids, ancient ruins, and ride a scenic cable car overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Dallas and Austin, Texas
Next up on the path is the Lone Star state. If you gravitate toward Austin, luxury travel company Black Tomato has curated an itinerary themed to the celestial occasion, beginning with a stay at Commodore Perry Estate and a stargazing party on the property’s lawn attended by astronomers and eclipse-chasers alike. Clients will experience unobstructed views of the eclipse at the 300-acre Mirasol Springs Ranch with astronomical activities, live music, and a “Texas ranch meets Moroccan style desert camp lunch.” This area of Texas is also known for its vineyards, so if you prefer your astronomy with a side of wine, take note of Essentialist’s itinerary, which includes several tasting room stops along the way.
For those heading to Dallas, you’ll enjoy nearly four minutes of totality in downtown, beginning at 1:40 p.m. CDT. At Hôtel Swexan complimentary glasses will be provided for safely viewing the eclipse and a curation of planetary films will be available. For those who prefer a rustic approach, nearby Samuell Farm is hosting an eclipse party at its 609-acre park with overnight camping passes available.
Niagara Falls, New York
Among the more picturesque settings for the total solar eclipse, Niagara Falls is the epitome of prime viewing. Enjoy programming from NASA astronauts and scientists throughout the area and book a ticket for one of many experiences to celebrate the occasion. (This eclipse event at Marjim Manor sounds particularly appealing: enjoy lunch and a glass of wine on the large lawn as totality approaches.)
Quebec, Canada
Set on the shore of Lake Massawippi, Manoir Hovey is a historic estate in southwestern Quebec, Canada. It’s set in the path of totality and will be hosting a viewing event from its lakefront gardens. Expect special glasses sourced from Mont-Megantic—the world’s first international Dark Sky Reserve. Guests can take in the eclipse by land or by lake, there are complimentary kayaks, paddle boats, and even a pontoon boat for rent.
