In 2017, a total solar eclipse swept across parts of the United States and sparked unprecedented interest in astrotourism. The upcoming eclipse promises to be even more remarkable. On April 8, a total solar eclipse will pass over a densely populated stretch of the country, placing more than 31 million Americans across 13 states — from Texas to Maine — within its path of totality. Unlike the 2017 event, which occurred near the low point of the 11-year solar cycle, this eclipse will take place close to the solar maximum. That means viewers can expect a larger, more dramatic corona with pronounced, spiky rays during the brief period of totality. Several major cities will be able to view the event, including Dallas and Austin, but Indianapolis stands out as one of the best vantage points.
© Visit Indy
Several state capitals fall along the path of totality, but most sit near the edge of that path. Indianapolis, however, lies near the centerline, which maximizes the duration of totality for observers in the city. City leaders and event organizers have been preparing for more than a year, coordinating large-scale celebrations and infrastructure to accommodate many visitors. While the eclipse will be visible along a corridor stretching from Mexico to Canada, Indianapolis will enjoy close to four minutes of totality — significantly longer than many other major cities (Austin, for example, will experience roughly half that time). The next total eclipse crossing the contiguous United States that closely matches this opportunity won’t occur until August 2044, and it will pass through only a few sparsely populated states. For most Americans, this April eclipse is a rare, convenient chance to witness totality without leaving the country — and Indianapolis is an ideal place to experience it.
© Newfields
The 152-acre Newfields campus, anchored by the Indianapolis Museum of Art, will host a daylong celebration with unobstructed sky views. The festival, called Total Eclipse of the Art, blends art and nature across the property’s galleries, historic buildings and gardens. Programming will include multiple DJ stages, fire and light shows, performance artists, forest bathing, yoga, and guided sun salutations. Ticket options range from general admission to a VIP Totality Ticket that provides access to a private terrace at the historic Lily House mansion, a private bar, and admission to an outdoor concert at The Amphitheater. All ticket levels include entry to the Indianapolis Museum of Art and THE LUME’s immersive Dalí Alive exhibit.
© Visit Indy
Families traveling with children will find activities across the city. The Indiana State Fairgrounds and the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis plan family-focused programming throughout the day. The Indiana State Museum will offer educational eclipse-related events, and NASA will host science programming and a live broadcast from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Beyond these major institutions, many parks, hotels, bars, and event spaces around the city are scheduling eclipse-themed events, so visitors will have many options for viewing and celebration. The path of totality will not return to Indianapolis for another 129 years — not until 2153 — so the city is preparing to make this a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime occasion.