Experience a once-in-a-lifetime event in Erie, Pennsylvania! On April 8, 2024, Erie is in the path of totality for a total solar eclipse. For nearly four minutes, the afternoon sky will go dark as the moon passes between the sun and the Earth. Erie is the only major city in Pennsylvania in the path of totality.
During a total solar eclipse, the moon lines up perfectly to obscure the sun, creating "totality". At the time of totality, the sky will become dark, and the sun’s corona (or outer atmosphere) will be visible. During the 2024 total solar eclipse, nearly everyone in North America will see some part of the eclipse, but only those who live in or travel to the path of totality will experience all stages of this rare event. The difference between a total and partial eclipse is out of this world: if even one percent of the sun is visible during an eclipse, the sun is 10,000 times too bright to observe the most spectacular part - totality!
A total solar eclipse is perhaps the most spectacular astronomical event that can be witnessed from Earth, and it can only be observed from some parts of the globe. Erie will be one of the few locations to see every stage of this awe-inspiring event. Plan your trip now to observe this phenomenon on the shores of Lake Erie!
The next Total Solar Eclipse in the contiguous United States won’t occur until 2044. Erie, Pennsylvania won’t be in the path of totality again until 2144!
All times listed are Eastern Daylight Time. Source: NationalEclipse.com and Fred Espenak NASA GSFC (eclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov). For a detailed interactive map of what the eclipse will look like from various points in northwestern PA, click here.
It's important to wear ISO-certified eclipse glasses as you safely view the eclipse. You can get them at several locations in Erie County leading up to the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse:
During Erie's Total Solar Eclipse, the sun will be high in the sky and visible from just about anywhere within Erie County. High traffic is expected in popular tourist locations along the water, including on Presque Isle State Park, which has only one entrance and exit point, and in Erie's Bayfront District. Please allow yourself ample time to get through traffic in these areas and heed the direction of officials.
This map has been created to guide visitors to areas within Erie County that will be suitable for eclipse viewing, with a capacity to host at least 250 people, including public parks and public events. Public parks noted on this map may not have amenities such as restrooms or seating available, and parking may be limited. Public events on this map may require a ticket purchase or pre-sale reservations. Please click on the icons for more details.
With up to 200,000 visitors in Pennsylvania for the total solar eclipse, officials are planning for heavy traffic and congestion, especially going into and out of major viewing locations and events. When traveling, please allow yourself plenty of time to arrive at your location, exhibit patience while in traffic, keep your gas tank full, and keep an emergency kit in the car.
Travel considerations for Erie's Bayfront and Downtown Erie:
VisitErie has teamed up with Erie Apparel to get visitors suited up for Erie's Total Solar Eclipse! Click here to see a complete list of merch and souvenirs being offered by local Erie businesses to commemorate Erie's Total Solar Eclipse.
For two hours and twenty eight minutes, experience Erie's Total Solar Eclipse from start to finish... and listen to this playlist. Start the music at 2:02 p.m. for songs to accompany each moment of the eclipse. Check out all of VisitErie's playlists here.
Eclipse viewing is a safe and enjoyable experience if you take the necessary measures to protect yourself with some basic information and take simple precautions.
PHOTO USAGE: By uploading content to VisitErie, you agree that you have all the necessary rights and permissions to do so. You also grant VisitErie and its partners the right to re-use photos on social media, print and digital advertising, the Erie Visitor Guide, and VisitErie.com
Fill your tank, pick up fresh food from local brands, and a six-pack to go in 40 regional locations.
Experience family summer fun on more than 100 great rides, slides and attractions at Waldameer!
Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.
Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row
Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.
Chances are, you are planning your trip to Erie. Why not download your free guide that's been put together right here, by those who know the region the best!