How wide is the solar path?
The width of the path of totality for a solar eclipse, where the Moon completely covers the Sun, can vary significantly but typically ranges from about 70 miles to 100 miles wide. This means that at Shores & Islands Ohio, and other areas within this band, residents and visitors will have the opportunity to experience the total eclipse, provided they are positioned within this path. The event will offer a unique and memorable viewing experience for those who are in the right location at the right time.
This path width is determined by several factors, including the distances between the Earth, Moon, and Sun at the time of the eclipse, as well as the relative apparent sizes of the Moon and Sun as viewed from Earth.
During a solar eclipse, the Moon casts two types of shadows on the Earth: the penumbra, where a partial eclipse is visible, and the much narrower umbra, where the total eclipse can be seen. The maximum width of the umbra is what determines the width of the path of totality.
The exact width and the path it takes over the Earth's surface vary with each eclipse, depending on the geometry of the Sun, Earth, and Moon at the time of the eclipse. The closer the Moon is to Earth in its elliptical orbit (perigee), the larger its shadow can be, potentially making the path of totality wider. Conversely, when the Moon is further away (apogee), its shadow can be smaller, leading to a narrower path of totality.
Eclipses where the path of totality is at its widest tend to occur when the Moon is near perigee, and the eclipse occurs near the equator, where the Earth's curvature doesn't narrow the shadow as quickly as it would at higher latitudes.
Take A Longer Look at This Truly Stellar Experience!
2024 Total Solar Eclipse
in Ohio
Get ready for a blackout you will never forget! On April 8, 2024, the moon will completely block out the sun for a rare total solar eclipse. Due to our global position directly in the path of totality, our communities in and around Shores & Islands Ohio will enjoy incredible, unobstructed viewing times of approximately four minutes—one of the longest durations in the entire region! The last total solar eclipse visible in Ohio was in 1806. The next total solar eclipse in Ohio will be in the year 2099.
The eclipse might be over in a flash, but the celebrations, viewing parties and events throughout our area will last for days…and the memories will last a lifetime. Don’t be left in the dark, book your stay today!!
Sandusky voted for the Top 7 Places to view the Total Solar Eclipse! - OutsideOnline.com
Locations. Locations. Locations.
Wondering where in the world you can see a “totally” awesome view of the eclipse in all its (longer-lasting) glory? Not to throw shade at other areas, but we think we’re perfectly positioned to give a good long look at this out-of-this-world event, with our locations here, directly in the “Path of Totality.”
Use the interactive Google eclipse maps developed by Xavier Jubier to plot out the precise start time, end time, and duration of totality by exact location on eclipse day. Then pick YOUR ideal location and reserve your place today.
City | Totality Start | Duration* |
---|---|---|
Bay View | 3:12:15 PM EDT | 3:40 |
Berlin Heights | 3:12:30 PM EDT | 3:54 |
Birmingham | 3:12:41 PM EDT | 3:53 |
Castalia | 3:12:11 PM EDT | 3:46 |
Catawba | 3:12:24 PM EDT | 3:29 |
Cleveland | 3:13:46 PM EDT | 3:48 |
Elmore | 3:11:50 PM EDT | 3:12 |
Fremont | 3:11:46 PM EDT | 3:38 |
Genoa | 3:11:54 PM EDT | 2:58 |
Huron | 3:12:29 PM EDT | 3:52 |
Kelleys Island | 3:12:35 PM EDT | 3:31 |
Lakeside | 3:12:26 PM EDT | 3:36 |
Lorain | 3:13:01 PM EDT | 3:52 |
Marblehead | 3:12:28 PM EDT | 3:37 |
Middle Bass | 3:12:38 PM EDT | 3:13 |
Milan | 3:12:19 PM EDT | 3:54 |
North Bass | 3:12:42 PM EDT | 3:07 |
Norwalk | 3:12:16 PM EDT | 3:54 |
Oak Harbor | 3:12:01 PM EDT | 3:17 |
Port Clinton | 3:12:12 PM EDT | 3:30 |
Put-in-Bay | 3:12:34 PM EDT | 3:18 |
Sandusky | 3:12:21 PM EDT | 3:45 |
Toledo | 3:12:17 PM EDT | 1:53 |
Vermilion | 3:12:45 PM EDT | 3:53 |
* "Duration" refers to the duration of totality and is expressed in minutes and seconds
Out-of-this-World Events
2024 Total Solar Eclipse in Ohio
Shoot for the moon and experience one of the many public events, festivals, and viewing parties celebrating the 2024 total solar eclipse across our communities. From Sandusky to Port Clinton to Put-in-Bay, we’re hosting parties that will last long after the shades have come off.
Keep checking for a more comprehensive list as we get closer to the eclipse. But don’t wait for the planets to align, make your reservations at one of our area hotels today and make sure you don’t miss a moment of the fun!
Shores & Islands Ohio has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of information in the events calendar. We recommend contacting the event venue or organizer for details on the current status of the event.
Are you hosting a public event not listed here? Submit your event here!
Book Your Stay Today
Ensure You’re Here to Experience it All!
We’re bringing new meaning to “room with a view.” Stay at one of our area hotels or lodging accommodations and ensure you and yours are right where you’ll get the best view of the eclipse…and access to the many activities and events surrounding it. Rooms are filling up fast. Make your reservations today!
Media Interest
Media interested in visiting Shores & Islands Ohio over the total solar eclipse weekend should complete the Media Interest Form.
Solar Savings!
Discover Eclipse Deals and Discounts
Get great deals and discounts at local attractions, shops, restaurants, and lodging accommodations for your Solar Eclipse getaway. Plus, discover more offers throughout the year with our Shore Savings Discount Card!
Additional Information
View more information about Safety, FAQs, Event Submission Form, and Phenomena!