A Total Solar Eclipse Will Be Visible Above Illinois This Spring

For the first time since 2017, the United States will be in the path of a total solar eclipse — and Illinois is lucky enough to be among the states with amazing visibility. I was bummed to have missed the last one, so this year I'm dedicated to being fully prepared to see the planetary phenomenon (especially since another one won't come around for at least another 20 years). Here's everything you need to know about the Illinois solar eclipse 2024:

• Details of the solar eclipse: timing, where you can see the eclipse, etc.
• 2-3 Tips for the best viewing experience.
• Dark Sky Parks or other destinations to visit for best visibility.

On Monday, April 8, a total solar eclipse will occur — nearly blotting out the sun entirely.

In a total eclipse, the moon passes over the sun blocking out the vast majority of it, except for a glowing ring around the circumference.

Day turns into night gradually as the bright blue sky fades to a spectacular navy-black as the sun is eclipsed by the moon.

The rare celestial event won't be visible throughout the entire state, but Southern Illinois will have a front-row seat in the heart of the action. Depending on where you are within the zone, you'll be able to witness the special occurrence for between about 2-4 minutes starting at about 2 p.m.

One important aspect of viewing the eclipse is proper eye safety, as the sun is too bright to look at directly for any amount of time. You can easily find paper "eclipse glasses" online, or make a pinhole projector solar viewer with materials you likely have at home. Sunglasses won't cut it.

According to experts, the charming small town of Carbondale is the best place in Illinois to view the 2024 solar eclipse. It's expected to last the longest there at about 4 minutes and 9 seconds.

Southern Illinois University, located in Carbondale, is set to host the Southern Illinois Crossroads Eclipse Festival beginning at 1:59 p.m. Central Time. The gorgeous campus will be a prime viewing spot for the special event and will also include a craft fair and science vendors.

Groups of three can rent a residence hall room for 5 days/4 nights between April 5-9 for $750 at the university, or you can check availability at a number of hotels in the area, including this top-rated Hampton Inn.

Another place near Carbondale where solar eclipse viewing is the Garden of the Gods Recreation Area in the Shawnee National Forest region. With one-of-a-kind rock formations and trails that lead to bluffs with breathtaking views, this is one of the highest points in Illinois with an unobstructed view of the sky.

In the nearby hippie town of Makanda, you can stay in this adorable and updated A-frame. If it were me, I would probably stay here for 3-5 days so I could soak up as much as this picturesque region as possible.

Ready to embark on an adventure to be part of the Illinois solar eclipse 2024? Check out the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website as well as the Enjoy Illinois website. Don't forget to grab your special viewing glasses — like this top-rated 10-pack of solar eclipse glasses from Amazon.