Where will you be one year from now? Don’t be left in the dark when it comes to the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse! On April 8, 2024, Shores & Islands Ohio will be in the path of totality for a solar eclipse. The moon will completely block out the sun for approximately four minutes, which is one of the longest durations in the path. With unobstructed views on Lake Erie or in the acres of greenspace throughout the area and special viewing parties in our coastal communities, Shores & Islands Ohio is an ideal location to witness the celestial event.
This week, one year ahead of the big event, we are launching SHORESandISLANDS.com/solar-eclipse as a resource to help visitors safely enjoy the solar eclipse while providing information about local events and activities related to this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The last total solar eclipse in Ohio was in 1806 and the next total solar eclipse in Ohio will not be until 2099.
Here, you can find information on all solar eclipse-related events and promotions in the area as well as information to help plan your stay, such as lodging, restaurants, attractions, and things to do. There is even a 
chart included that provides information on our destination’s communities, exact time the totality will start in each community, and the duration of the totality so you can make an informed decision on where to best enjoy the view. The site will also include information on how visitors can pick up complimentary solar eclipse viewing glasses from our welcome centers and other area partners, once they become available.
Check back often because the site will be continuously updated throughout the upcoming year as new events and promotions are planned. Event information includes dates, times, and a link to the event organizer website. With the total solar eclipse happening on a Monday, Shores & Islands Ohio is encouraging our tourism partners to host festivals and events throughout the entire weekend to encourage visitors to arrive early and stay late! With the surge of visitors comes increased traffic, so we recommend guests stay for several days rather than trying to arrive and depart on eclipse day.
Shores & Islands Ohio expects an influx of visitors for the eclipse. Total estimated visitors coming to Ohio is between 139,000 and 556,000, with a high percentage of those coming this region. It is expected that the local population could triple or quadruple on the day of the eclipse! Local agencies are working together and meeting regularly to coordinate a safe and pleasant experience for guests.
Shores & Islands Ohio is an ideal location to experience the solar eclipse. There are going to be a lot of creative festivals and events planned. Even in April, the region offers so much to do for guests before, during, and after the eclipse. Visitors coming to witness the once-in-a-lifetime event can easily turn their trip into a celestial vacation.
So don’t be left in the dark…visit SHORESandISLANDS.com/solar-eclipse to start planning your getaway now!
