As April 2024 begins and the anticipation builds for an astronomical event that promises to awe and inspire, the total solar eclipse will be like no other. On April 8, 2024, the moon will align perfectly with the sun, casting a shadow upon the Earth and providing viewers in certain regions of Mexico and the United States with the opportunity to witness a breathtaking celestial display. While the major destinations of Mazatlán, Dallas, Indianapolis, Cleveland, & Buffalo will steal the spotlight due to their size and amenities, there’s something uniquely enchanting about experiencing a total solar eclipse from a small town. If you’re ready to experience the magic of this natural phenomenon, here are a few small towns to guide you to some of the best places to witness the April 2024 eclipse. Take a drive into the wild blue yonder to roam the country for the day!
Loreto, Mexico
Located on the eastern coast of the Baja California Peninsula, Loreto lies within the path of totality. Founded in 1697 and is one of the oldest settlements in Baja. Loreto is surrounded by stunning landscapes, plus the turquoise waters of the Sea of Cortez and the mountains of Sierra de la Giganta. Definitely a great little spot to get a view of the eclipse.
Kerrville, Texas
The small hill country town of Kerrville is located just north of San Antonio. With 4 minutes and 25 seconds of totality, Kerrville is a great spot! For wildflower lovers, it will be a beautiful drive too. There are fields of bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush, and more. Be sure not to miss all the beauty San Antonio has to offer.
Radar Base, Texas
For eclipse chasers who want the greatest possible amount of totality without leaving the United States, consider Radar Base, Texas. It lies right on the U.S./Mexico border. Don’t let the name fool you; it’s not a base, just a very small, sleepy town that will be booming with travelers on April 8th.
Carbondale, Illinois
Did you know Carbondale is dubbed the “Eclipse Crossroads of America”? In 2017, the city garnered attention as one of the best places to witness the total solar eclipse, and it will once again take center stage in April 2024. With its prime location within the path of totality and a range of eclipse-related events and activities, Carbondale offers an immersive eclipse experience for enthusiasts and astronomers alike. A side note: Carbondale is also known as “Little Egypt” because the early settlers of the region thought the area resembled the Nile in Egypt.
Keremeos, British Columbia, Canada
Tucked away in the picturesque Similkameen Valley of British Columbia, Keremeos exudes small-town charm against a backdrop of rolling hills and orchards. The name originated from the Similkameen dialect of the Okanagan language word “Keremeyeus” meaning “creek which cuts its way through the flats”. Visitors can explore the town’s quaint shops and cafes before settling in to watch the celestial spectacle.
Mansfield, Ohio
Situated in north-central Ohio, Mansfield offers a blend of historic charm and natural beauty that makes it an appealing destination for eclipse enthusiasts. With its proximity to major cities like Cleveland and Columbus, Mansfield provides easy access for travelers while still offering a peaceful atmosphere for eclipse viewing. Visitors can explore the town’s rich history, including the main attraction, the Ohio State Reformatory, on the visit.
Madras, Oregon
Known as the “Solar Eclipse Capital of America,” Madras captured the world’s attention during the 2017 total solar eclipse with its stunning views. In central Oregon’s high desert region, Madras has clear skies and wide-open spaces with a backdrop of the Cascade Mountains, perfect for observing celestial events. It is also home to the Erickson Aircraft Collection, a privately owned collection of airworthy vintage aircraft.
Mars Hill, Maine
Fun fact, other than the name, is that the summit of Mars Hill is the first place in the contiguous United States to see the Sun rise for nearly half of the year, from March 25 to September 18. Cool huh? Honestly, it’s just a cool place to say you saw the eclipse, however it will be the last location in the US to see the eclipse in totality.
Niagara Falls, USA/Canada
Guilty, it’s not off the beaten path, but it would be totally cool to see the eclipse from the majestic Niagara Falls as a backdrop to the celestial drama of a total solar eclipse. This iconic natural wonder straddles the border between the United States and Canada, offering multiple vantage points for eclipse viewing. Whether you choose to witness the eclipse from the American side in New York or the Canadian side in Ontario, you’re sure to be treated to a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle against the backdrop of thundering waterfalls.
Check out this list of 20 locations to view the April 8th eclipse, including a map!