On the afternoon of April 8, 2024, join the crowds gathering on rooftops, city parks and in the Texas Hill Country to watch the solar eclipse. It will be an exciting time to be outside and see the moon pass over the sun on the eastern edge of its path from Texas to Maine. In Austin, the partial eclipse will begin at 12:17 p.m., with the total eclipse at 1:37 p.m. and the end of the partial eclipse at 2:58 p.m., according to nationaleclipse.com trackers. We’ve got great ideas for some of the best spots around Austin to view the eclipse.
Zilker Park. Credit Ryan Kyte.
PARKS
Spread out in Zilker Park, which offers 361 acres and Lady Bird Lake views to welcome hordes of eclipse spectators. Accustomed to hosting large-scale events, the gorgeous green space west of the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge is the jewel of Downtown Austin. Take a dip in the spring-fed Barton Springs Pool to cool off.
You’ll walk by the Stevie Ray Vaughan Memorial statue on your way to watch the big solar event at Auditorium Shores. Stroll the boardwalk and stretch out in the park on the south bank of Lady Bird Lake, east of the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge. A fun way to explore the area is via the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail.
Or make Mueller Lake Park your destination to take in the total eclipse of the sun. The 30-acre park features Mueller Lake, an amphitheater, 13 miles of trails and plenty of space to accommodate curious viewers.
Along the Shoal Creek Trail and just a few blocks from The University of Texas at Austin, the 84-acre Pease District Park features the two-story Treehouse Observation Pod (make a reservation for this spot). When you’re not observing the sky, enjoy the shade under the park’s tree canopy. Beautifully maintained, this is Austin’s first public park.
The mostly undeveloped, 517-acre Onion Creek Metropolitan Park boasts open greenbelt areas. Claim one of them as a prime place to view the sky for the afternoon. Make it a day and enjoy nature trails, play and picnic areas, and pavilions while you’re here.
It takes just 15 minutes to make the ascent via 106 limestone steps to Covert Park atop Mount Bonnell. Austin’s highest point is the perfect place to see the moon block the sun’s light. The landmark offers panoramic views of Austin’s skyline, Lake Austin, the Colorado River and the Texas Hill Country.
ROOFTOPS
Expect a lively experience at El Alma. Enjoy the contemporary Mexican food while taking in the surrounding city views from the second-floor terrace. Make a toast to the experience with a frosty margarita or a mezcal cocktail. Reservations are recommended to ensure you get a seat.
Go to Group Therapy on the seventh floor of Hotel ZaZa for a prime viewing spot at the poolside Cabana Bar. In addition to the eclipse, you’ll love the views overlooking nearby Republic Square Park. The open overhead views from JW Marriot's rooftop bar Edge Rooftop along with scrumptious bites and cocktails makes it an ideal viewing spot. Don't forget to book your spot at one of these amazing spaces well in advance.
ECLIPSE PARTIES
Check out some of the eclipse parties already planned at Austin-area venues:
Reveille Peak Ranch in the Texas Hill Country is hosting an international festival, where the main event is watching the eclipse. The ranch is ready to welcome thousands for a four-day Texas Eclipse Party with an emphasis on music, art, space and technology. Tickets are available now.
Does sipping wine and watching the moon cross over the sun sound like a great combination? Then plan to visit Fall Creek Vineyards for its Great North American Eclipse Viewing party and lunch, held exclusively for its Wine Club members. Join the club to reserve your spot.
Check out our Eclipse Page for the latest information on watch parties and events.
VIEWING TIPS
Wherever you watch the event, do it safely to avoid harming your eyes. Don’t stare at the sun without eclipse glasses or a handheld solar viewer. Regular sunglasses are not a substitute for eclipse glasses. Additionally, don’t view the event through a camera lens or binoculars that are not equipped with special filters. When visiting for the eclipse, stop by the Austin Visitor Center to pick up a pair of ISO certified eclipse glasses!
Start planning your Austin eclipse-watching experience by booking your flight and hotel accommodations today!