The best places throughout the state to see the astronomical phenomenon
The Hoosier state of Indiana is anticipating an influx of millions of visitors on April 8, 2024, the date of the total eclipse of the sun. This rare, yet fascinating occurrence will be an unforgettable experience in history.
The path of totality will run from Texas to Maine, making Indiana a perfect state to witness the 2024 solar eclipse. The central and southern locations listed below fall under the path of totality, where complete darkness will occur for several minutes, compared to the northern locations that will be able to witness a partial eclipse but won’t have 100 percent visibility. The partial eclipse is calculated to be visible beginning at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. for the full eclipse. Here are some destinations across the state where visitors can best enjoy the eclipse.
Northern Indiana
Indiana Dunes National Park
Indiana Dunes covers 15,000 acres of land adjacent to Lake Michigan and offers a variety of recreational activities like hiking, camping and swimming. The park is famous for its massive sand dunes caused by thousands of years of wind and water erosion, making it a unique site to view the eclipse.
Indiana Dunes National Park is one of the best places to experience the eclipse in 2024.
Berne
Named after the capital of Switzerland, this cute town located 35 miles south of Fort Wayne, was established in 1852 by Swiss Immigrants. The Swiss Heritage Village and Museum, a massive Clock Tower, and the beautiful Mennonite church are just a few of the noticeable spotlights the small rural town is home to. Not only does Berne make a great day trip, but it also serves as a picturesque location to witness the solar eclipse.
DeKalb
Sitting in the upper right corner of the state, DeKalb County gets a heap of visitors for its yearly classic car showcases and several riveting auto museums. Fine wineries, festivals, and shopping also make it a perfect place to stop, relax, and watch the eclipse.
Central Indiana
Muncie
The BSU Charles W Brown Planetarium is collaborating with the city of Muncie to coordinate a handful of prime viewing sites throughout the city. Although the plan is still being developed, Muncie is expected to be an exceptional location to view the astronomical event. Currently, the city is working to build a website that will provide a great amount of information about the eclipse and related activities. While there, make sure to check out the David Owsley Museum of Art at Ball State University or walk around the beautiful Minnetrista Museum & Gardens.
Indianapolis
The capital city of Indiana is perfect for the 2024 solar eclipse as it sits within the path of totality and provides visitors with a tremendous number of things to do. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway will be one of the three locations working closely with NASA and will have expert employees onsite to respond to questions. More lively events celebrating this rare occurrence include food trucks at White River State Park, live performances at Conner Prairie, and seeing how the animals react at the Indianapolis Zoo.
Morgan County
Lying between Indianapolis and Bloomington, Morgan County’s combination of hills and flat lands is the result of being the stoppage point for glaciers during the ice age. Morgan County Fairgrounds, nearby parks, and more locations to come will serve as prime spots to observe the upcoming solar eclipse. While there, enjoy the outdoors at Hunter’s Honey Farm, eat and drink at Cedar Creek Winery, and check out an antique store in the area.
Southern Indiana
Vincennes & Knox County
The counties of Vincennes & Knox will be hosting an official countdown event as they are expected to be home to the lengthiest and darkest viewing experience within the state of Indiana for the 2024 solar eclipse. Complete darkness is expected to occur for a long four minutes and five seconds. The event will offer the opportunity to gather alongside local businesses, community groups, and more. Inside this small city, you may also find the George Rogers Clark National Historical Park and Indiana Military Museum.
Evansville
Looking to go somewhere loaded with pre-planned activities surrounding the event? The city is planning on collaborating with a prominent artist/astronomer and also ordering a mass amount of eclipse glasses for attendees. The city features recreational parks alongside the river, Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden, and exceptional shopping and dining options. Or walk around the Evansville Museum and learn more about the solar system in their planetarium.
Bloomington
Situated among rolling hills, green forests, and calm lakes, Bloomington is also home to Indiana University, one of the oldest and largest public universities in the US. Visitors can take a stroll around the grand campus or partake in outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, and boating. Or visit the dainty yet lively town full of boutiques and restaurants. Located in the dead center of the path of totality, Bloomington is a superior place to be for this moment in history.
Trying to make the most of your trip to Indiana? Check out our favorite aquatic experiences around the state.
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By Sophia DiVagno
