All areas of Indiana will see at least a partial eclipse on April 8, 2024. However, only places within the 115-mile-wide path of totality will see a total solar eclipse. Double-check that the location you plan to watch from is within the path of totality if you want the full total solar eclipse experience.
Plan Ahead
Research ahead of time to find a place to observe the eclipse. Keep in mind the following:
- Leave pets at home, where they would be safer and more comfortable — especially if pets would be in crowded areas or around other animals and unfamiliar people. They may behave unpredictably.
- Traffic patterns will be different, as thousands of people will be traveling to and from the path of totality. This includes traffic in rural areas that usually do not have heavy traffic.
- Make sure that you find a spot with a good view of the sky and double-check that it is located in the path of totality.
- Weather conditions may prompt many people to change locations on the day of the eclipse.
- Have backup locations in mind in case your original destination is unavailable.
- Public facilities may become crowded or unavailable.
- Some areas may experience difficulties keeping up with consumer demand, such as having enough food and gas, in the short term.
- Find an area away from roads. Do not stop in the road or park along a road. This can be extremely dangerous, especially on highways and interstates.
- Do not trespass. Make sure that you have permission to be at a location.
- Traffic will increase immediately following the eclipse, and it may be gridlocked for hours. Make sure you have plenty of gas and a fully stocked vehicle emergency kit, including a first aid kit, jumper cables, portable phone charger and spare food and water.
If you have a reservation at a state park inn or campsite, or are considering going to a state park property for the eclipse, be sure to visit the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) eclipse webpages for FAQs and tips.
- Where to Watch
Below are maps showing locations where the public may observe the eclipse. Additional listings of locations and public events can be found at NationalEclipse.com and VisitIndy.com. Many Indiana universities and governments have posted information about events on their own eclipse websites.
If you are hosting an event open to the public, you can register it online to be promoted on these websites:
- Where to Stay (Lodging)
The goal of most travelers will be to stay within areas in the path of totality, or close enough to reach a destination within the path on the day of the eclipse.
Arrive Early and Stay Late
Because traffic is expected to be very heavy leading up to the total solar eclipse and persist for hours following totality, consider staying the night before and the night of the eclipse in the same area where you plan to watch the eclipse.
Make Reservations Early
Due to high demand, state park inns and campgrounds are expected to reach capacity in advance of the eclipse. Hotels in places such as Bloomington have been booked months before the eclipse, so availability may be low in popular viewing destinations.
VisitIndiana.com has highlighted many cities and counties around the state that offer events, attractions and places to stay on its Best Places webpage.
Additionally, many local areas and visitors bureaus have set up special eclipse websites or list lodging information. Below are just a few options:
- City, County and Regional Websites
Visit the following visitors bureau and local government websites for visitor information, including events, places to watch the eclipse and places to stay.
Note: Contact the owners of these websites directly if you want your information added to them.