travel map indiana

With winter storm impacting road conditions, what Indiana's travel advisory map means

For a general sense of road conditions in each county, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security has created a color-coded map indicating travel advisory levels. 

The county travel status map uses three colors to show the road conditions within the county, not specific roadways. 

Here’s what the map means: 

Yellow is the lowest travel advisory. Yellow indicates that drivers should use caution or avoid the area, and typical travel may be restricted in certain areas. 

If a county is orange on the map, conditions are considered threatening to the public’s safety. Only essential travel is encouraged while under a “watch” local advisory, such as work commutes or in emergency situations. Emergency action plans should be implemented by businesses, schools, government agencies and other organizations. 

Weather and health: What happens if your vaccine appointment gets canceled due to snow

Red, the highest level of advisory, means only emergency management workers should be on the roads at the time. In this “warning” phase, county residents are asked to refrain from any travel, to follow necessary emergency measures and follow directions from officials. 

How county travel status is set

According to the IDHS, the travel status levels are declared by each county's emergency management agency.

As counties initiate official travel advisories and notify the state, the IDHS map is automatically updated to reflect that information.

Johnson County Emergency Management Director Stephanie Sichting said travel levels are determined after local officials go out and make first-hand assessments of the conditions.

If a travel level needs to be increased or decreased, Sichting and other state emergency management directors have access to a web portal that allows them to send that information to the state in an instant.

Stay out of a ditch: Here's how to drive in it like you've got some sense

Sichting said that information is typically reflected on the statewide travel map within a minute or two. 

"And you can keep track of it as it goes up or down. It tells you the time and date that we report it," Sichting said.

She added that local officials understand that travel restrictions can be inconvenient for residents or businesses who are trying to keep to their regular schedules. But making the decision to go from orange to red is not something that is done on whim. 

"It's not our intent to cause them any distress," she said. "We just want to keep everybody safe."

The county travel map can be viewed at  https://www.in.gov/dhs/traveladvisory/ .

Contact Sarah Nelson at [email protected]  

World Map » USA » State » Indiana

• Indiana Map

Description: This map shows states boundaries, lake Michigan, the state capital, counties, county seats, cities, towns and national parks in Indiana. Size: 1050x1425px / 381 Kb Author: Ontheworldmap.com

You may download, print or use the above map for educational, personal and non-commercial purposes. Attribution is required. For any website, blog, scientific research or e-book, you must place a hyperlink (to this page) with an attribution next to the image used.

Indiana Location Map

Indiana State Location Map

Online Map of Indiana

Detailed Maps of Indiana

Large detailed map of Indiana with cities and towns

Indiana county map

Indiana interstate map

Road map of Indiana with cities

Indiana railroad map

Indiana highway map

Pictorial travel map of Indiana

Maps of Indiana Regions

Map of Northern Indiana

Map of Southern Indiana

Maps of Indiana and Neighbouring States

Map of Indiana and Ohio

Map of Illinois and Indiana

Map of Michigan, Ohio and Indiana

Map of West Virginia, Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana

About Indiana

• State Capitals
• National Parks

Cities of USA

• New York City
• Los Angeles
• San Francisco
• Washington D.C.
• Philadelphia
• New Orleans
• San Antonio
• Jacksonville
• Indianapolis
• ALL U.S. CITIES

States of USA

• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• West Virginia
• North America Map
• South America Map
• Oceania Map

Popular maps

• New York City Map
• Los Angeles Map
• Las Vegas Map
• Australia Map
• Germany Map
• Netherlands Map
• Singapore Map
• United Arab Emirates Map
• United Kingdom Map
• United States Map

U.S. States

• Arizona Map
• California Map
• Colorado Map
• Florida Map
• Georgia Map
• Illinois Map
• Michigan Map
• New Jersey Map
• New York Map
• North Carolina Map
• Virginia Map
• Wisconsin Map

INDOT Trafficwise

About this app

Data safety.

Ratings and reviews

• Flag inappropriate

What's new

App support.

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Pokagon State Park

Indiana tourism brochures, scroll down to order brochures to be mailed directly to you, brochures requested, shipping address, communications preferences.

Sign up for Visit Indiana’s monthly e-newsletters, delivered FREE to your inbox each month! Things to see and do that are unique to Indiana Exclusive discounts and coupons Upcoming festivals and events

* Indicates a required field.

Click the Tabs to get more Information on the Brochures!

Then use the form to order them, 2024 indiana travel guide.

Download the digital copy or pick up a copy at your local INDOT rest area or welcome center! 

2024 IN Indiana Travel Guides will be available in March 2024.

2024 Indiana Festival Guide

The must-have book for travelers and locals IN Indiana. It is always festival season IN Indiana!

Download the digital copy or pick up a copy at your local INDOT rest area or welcome center!

2024 Adventures in Festival Country Indiana

Located just south of Indy, Festival Country has festivals, music, charming downtowns, wine, craft brews, water…

2024 SoIN Visitor Guide

Visit SoIN on the Ohio River: Clarksville, Jeffersonville, New Albany, Charlestown & Starlight.

3rd Largest Amish Community in US, Visit Shipshewana Indiana

See Shipshewana Indiana - including Amish cooking, animal farms, charming B&Bs, outdoor fun & more!

A Fun Family Getaway in Fort Wayne

Explore Indiana's 2nd-largest city, with a top-10 in the US Children's Zoo, & new Riverfront Park!

Along the South Shore

Minutes from Chicago! Explore the Indiana Dunes, casinos, candy factory, waterpark, & more!

Amish Country - Northern Indiana

Visit Bristol, Elkhart, Goshen, Middlebury, Nappanee, Wakarusa and Shipshewana along the scenic Heritage Trail.

Anderson Madison County Visitors Bureau

Plan your next visit to Anderson Madison County today.

Bloomington Visitors Guide - 2024

Explore Bloomington including Indiana University, unique attractions, special events & festivals.

Chautauqua Wawasee Program Calendar - 2024

Join us for Life Enriching Programs for the whole family on Indiana’s Largest Natural Lake.

City of Evansville and Downtown Evansville Map

With sweeping views of the Ohio River, you’ll always enjoy discovering all there is to love about Evansville’s…

Covered Bridges in Putnam & Parke Counties

40 Covered Bridges, Turkey Run & Lieber State Parks, Raccoon & Rockville Lakes, Golf, Art & more.

Daviess County - Authentic Amish Tours

Visit Daviess County

Dubois County Visitors Guide

The official Dubois County Visitors Guide is your go-to resource for all there is to discover in southern Indiana.

Experience Madison

Madison is a picturesque community that celebrates a rich history and offers year-round activities.

Explore Kokomo

Explore Kokomo Opalescent Glass factory tours, Elwood Haynes and Greentown Glass museums, Seiberling Mansion, art experiences, antiques, trails, breweries, boutiques and more.

Forge Your Path - East Central Indiana

You matter here. East Central Indiana has 9 counties, nearly 400,000 people and endless opportunities for you to build a life and make a difference here.

Fulton County Brochure

Nestled along the Tippecanoe River and conveniently located off of US 31, Fulton County will give you plenty of reasons to become a repeat visitor. Come visit our charming communities and fall in love with our laid-back vibe and friendly hospitality.

Hamilton County- Just north of Indy

Visit Hamilton County, just north of Indy. A safe, memorable visit is closer than you think.

Hendricks County

Discover small-town charm combined with big-city adventure just west of Indy.

Indiana DNR Recreation Guide

Official guide to state parks, inns, reservoirs, forests, fish and wildlife areas, historic sites and more.

Kosciusko County

Visit Kosciusko County in Northern Indiana and enjoy our over 100 lakes, 11 trail systems, and many opportunities for outdoor recreation. The place to plan your getaway is Clearly Kosciusko. 

Muncie Visitors Bureau

Muncie is you premiere location in East Central Indiana for a wise variety of entertainment, dining, culture, and recreation. We invite you to pick up an Experience Guide and let us share all of these amazing features with you.

Noble County Visitor's Guide

Welcome to Noble County, where nature rejuvenates you IN Indiana! We are delighted you've picked Noble! Noble County is a destination where nature rejuvenates you. With a state park, miles of trails, and 117 lakes, this is a peaceful place to unplug and unwind from your busy schedule. Noble County is home to one of the only perfumeries in the US, along with a state historic site, the only windmill museum east of the Mississippi River, and an animal sanctuary. Noble County has many experiences for you and your family to enjoy... engage with us for a closer look! Explore the many things that await your visit to Noble County when you download our digital visitor's guide.

Relive the Story in Vincennes/Knox County

Indiana's first city, an ideal getaway for history enthusiasts.

Ripley County - Southeast Indiana – Adventure Awaits

Milan '54 Basketball Museum, Versailles State Park (mountain biking, hiking, boating, & camping), fun & more!

South Bend Mishawaka and Notre Dame

Get ready to explore The Bend with the official guide to South Bend Mishawaka. Home to the University of Notre Dame, stunning museums, whitewater rafting, winter adventure, amazing dining and much more.

Spencer County Visitors Bureau

Santa Claus, Indiana, is home to Holiday World & Splashin' Safari and Christmas-themed attractions.

Steuben County Visitor's Guide

With more than 101 natural lakes and Indiana’s most beautiful state park, Steuben County is a recreational wonderland. 

Owen County, Indiana

Indiana's first State Park, McCormick's Creek and Rustic Canyon Inn; Cataract Falls SRA; a Winery & more!

Visit French Lick West Baden

Relive the extraordinary history and vibrant lifestyles: ultimate luxury, and many opportunities for all ages.

Visit Michigan City LaPorte

Discover why Michigan City is a favorite lake vacation escape. Download or request a free Visitors Guide.

Visit Richmond-Wayne County

Enjoy alluring outdoor adventures, chocolate trail, Antique Alley & Check out our lodging packages.

Order Bulk Publications

Advertise with us.

Boost your listing's visibility to 200,000+ monthly views! Talk to our team about purchasing an advertisement with…

Indiana interstates will likely be packed on eclipse day. How to prepare and what to expect

W ith the total solar eclipse approaching and Indiana being prime real estate for sky-watching, police are anticipating packed roads and heavy traffic conditions.  

“We've likened it to having the Indy 500 in the Evansville area, Bloomington area, here in Indy and then in the northeast,” said Capt. Ron Galaviz of Indiana State Police. 

State Police anticipate traffic will snarl before, during and after the event, which will occur April 8. Galaviz said the police agency will have “all hands on deck” when it comes to staffing troopers on the state’s highway and particularly its interstate system.  

Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox each morning.

More: Road-tripping to Indy for the eclipse? Here are some destinations to check out on the way

At the same time, motorists are asked to prepare ahead of time for traffic jams as thousands descend into the state. Filling up vehicles with gas ahead of time is advised as well as having food and water supplies in anticipation of long waits.

"Exercise patience," Galaviz said.

Police: Don't stop on the interstate to watch the eclipse

During the event, state police are also urging drivers not to stop, park, or watch the solar activity on the interstates.

“In Indiana, it’s against the law to stop, stand or park along the side of the interstate. Let alone, on the interstate itself in one of the lanes of travel,” Galaviz said.  

How to avoid traffic during the eclipse

To gauge road congestion during and after the eclipse, drivers can visit 511in.org which shares the latest traffic patterns across the state and possibly find alternative routes.

Where is the eclipse path of totality

2024 solar eclipse map: See the path of totality in Indiana, U.S.

City-by-city solar eclipse timing: Where you can see the total solar eclipse in Indiana, when, and how long it's visible

Contact reporter Sarah Nelson at [email protected]

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indiana interstates will likely be packed on eclipse day. How to prepare and what to expect

Things To Do

• Outdoor Activities
• Route 66 in Illinois
• Arts & Culture
• Attractions
• Food & Drink
• Lincoln Historic Sites
• Illinois Scenic Byways
• Festivals & Events

Places To Go in Illinois

• Chicago & Beyond
• Great Rivers Country
• Land of Lincoln
• Trails to Adventure

Plan Your Trip

• Travel Inspiration
• Road Trip Itineraries
• Illinois Made
• Places to Stay
• Seasonal Adventures
• Exploring Illinois with Electric Vehicles
• Getting Here & Getting Around
• Maps & Visitor Guides

Accessibility in Illinois

• Tourism Industry
• Like us on Facebook
• Follow us on Instagram
• Check our Pinterest
• Follow us on TikTok
• Follow us on LinkedIn
• Subscribe to our channel on YouTube

Your 2024 Illinois Solar Eclipse Guide

Jan 03, 2024 • Outdoors & Regional

Explaining the 2024 Solar Eclipse

Imagine being in the Middle of Everything to witness a   twice-in-a-lifetime astronomical event . If you make your way to Southern Illinois, you'll get that chance. 

What is a solar eclipse?

A solar eclipse is a rare, celestial event that occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, causing the sun to be partially or completely obscured from view as observed from a specific region on Earth. This happens because the moon's shadow is cast onto the Earth's surface, blocking or partially covering the sun's light.

When is the next total solar eclipse?

On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse is set to occur, marking the final one visible from the United States until the year 2045.

Where will the eclipse be visible?

This celestial event will pass through a path of totality encompassing 13 states, including Illinois.

Where is the best place to view the eclipse?

While a partial solar eclipse will be visible across the entire country including much of the rest of Illinois, the special characteristics of a total solar eclipse can only be experienced within the narrow path of totality that will traverse Southern Illinois - specifically in areas such as Carbondale. It is only within this specific region and during this precise moment that you can observe the sky transitioning to darkness, resembling nighttime, as the Moon completely obstructs direct sunlight and unveils the solar corona—the Sun's outer atmosphere.

This means only residents of Southern Illinois and visitors alike will have the rare, unique opportunity to see this truly remarkable event and be witness to the rare astronomical phenomenon known as a total solar eclipse. Carbondale is on the center-line of the path of totality and will see 4 minutes and 9 seconds of totality for eclipse 2024 (nearly double what was seen in 2017). For other spots to view the eclipse in Illinois, keep reading!

How do I plan to see the eclipse?

If you're planning to travel, be sure to   view the Illinois Department of Transportation's website   for travel tips and info on how to prepare.

Read on for more details on what you'll need to bring with you, the best places to see the eclipse, events, and more. Let's have a solar-bration!

Get in a Celestial State of Mind

Before embarking on your eclipse adventure, take a moment to delve into all things out-of-this-world by visiting these planetariums and observation centers. These celestial phenomena have fascinated humanity for centuries, and understanding them can add a whole new layer of wonder to your experience.

William M. Staerkel Planetarium

With a state-of-the-art digital projection system and special programs, visitors to Champaign can learn about the stars, planets and more at the second largest planetarium in Illinois.

Strickler Planetarium

Come witness the history of the universe in Bourbonnais from its fiery birth to the formation of our own solar system on a state-of-the-art digital projector that gives a multimedia and full-dome show.

Adler Planetarium

Located in Chicago, America’s First Planetarium is more than a museum. It's a laboratory, a classroom, and a community. Enjoy interactive exhibitions, live planetarium shows and more.

Cernan Earth & Space Center

Triton College's on-campus space center in River Grove is an educational, engaging attraction with galactic appeal. It features a variety of earth and sky shows, children's shows and laser light shows.

Road Trip Hotspots:  Roadside Stops  

As you head off on your road trip to Southern Illinois, there's a bounty of iconic attractions and features to stop by along the way. 

Kaskaskia Dragon , Vandalia

Is a dragon really a dragon without fire-breathing? Of course not. And this ferocious metallic statue in Vandalia agrees. On your way to experiencing something celestial, stop by this attraction for a fun dose of mythical. 

Big Things , Casey

Yes, seeing a total eclipse will make you feel small. But so will the town of Casey just off of Interstate 70. Host to a variety of larger-than-life attractions like the world’s largest rocking chair, mailbox, golf tee and driver, pencil, keys, and so much more. This town will make you feel like you’ve just stumbled upon a lost suburb of giants.

Fort Massac Encampment , Metropolis

For those history lovers, Fort Massac is Illinois’s first state park and home to a wooden fort built by French soldiers in 1757.

Superman Statue & Museum , Metropolis

Metropolis is the home of Superman! Take a photo with the 15-foot-tall statue of the Man of Steel. A statue of Lois Lane is also located nearby. And be sure to visit the world's largest collection of Superman memorabilia at the  Superman Museum .

Walker’s Bluff Casino & Resort , Carterville

Keep an eye out for a variety of hosted activities related to the eclipse, plus enjoy all the amenities on offer including a spacious indoor/outdoor pool, fine dining venues, and a variety of gaming and entertainment.

Road Trip Hotspots:  Nature Walks

Don't forget to visit a few local state parks and rolling hills to get in some of your steps and take in the wondrous beauty of the natural landscapes that surround you.

Starved Rock State Park , Utica 

Seasonal waterfalls, awe-inspiring bluffs, and rugged canyons dominate the storied landscape at Starved Rock. Rich with history and beauty, Starved Rock’s hiking trails meander through towering trees and scenic overlooks along the Illinois River. 

Matthiessen State Park , Utica

Located in central LaSalle County, approximately four miles south of Utica and three miles east of Oglesby, Matthiessen is a paradise for those interested in geology as well as recreation.

Pere Marquette State Park , Grafton

With nearly 8,000 acres of scenic beauty, Pere Marquette State Park is one of the most picturesque and beautiful locations on the Illinois River and the largest state park in Illinois.

LaRue Pine Hills , Wolf Lake

LaRue-Pine Hills is one of the most unique areas in the world. As with many places in the Shawnee National Forest, the beauty we see today is rooted in geologic history. Scenic drives, hiking, and camping are available.  

Best Places to View the Eclipse in Illinois

The Path of Totality will span across 13 states. A large section of Southern Illinois lies along the path, hitting multiple towns and cities. Take a look at the map below and see which parts of Southern Illinois lie within the Path of Totality, so you can discover which places will be best to view the eclipse! 

Marketing itself as the Crossroads of the Eclipses, this is a great spot for eclipse-chasers. Southern Illinois University is planning a public viewing at a football stadium – with NASA Edge in attendance.

Garden of the Gods, Shawnee National Forest

Situated in Shawnee National Forest, a beautiful, unspoiled wilderness area in Southern Illinois, Garden of the Gods is a perfect spot for viewing astronomical events.

Bald Knob Cross, Alto Pass

As well as being close to the point of greatest eclipse duration – Bald Knob Mountain is one of the highest places in the area. Expect low horizons and a big crowd.

Traffic Information

There'll be an increased amount of traffic on the roads around the eclipse event. Make sure you plan ahead and check out the below links for further details.

• Road construction:  Road Construction (gettingaroundillinois.com)
• Traveler info:  Traveler Info (gettingaroundillinois.com)

Solar Eclipse Events in Illinois

Fairfield eclipse (fairfield), april 8, 2024.

Event date(s): April 8, 2024 Location: Fairfield, IL

Join us for the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8th, 2024 in Fairfield, Illinois – The Center of it All!

Solar Eclipse At Historic Bell Hill (Cobden), April 8, 2024

Event date(s): April 8, 2024, 12-3 pm Location: Cobden, Illinois

Total Eclipse of the Art: at Alto Vineyards

Event date(s): April 6, 2024, 12-5 pm Location: Alto Pass, Illinois

Come and enjoy this day in celebration of local talent with an eclipse theme, in Alto Vineyard's comfy & pleasurable environment. This is a perfect opportunity to purchase that one-of-a-kind memorabilia of this historic crossover eclipse that will engulf Southern Illinois.

Total Eclipse Run (Vienna), April 8, 2024

Event date(s): April 8, 2024, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Location: Vienna, Illinois

Get a move on and Run on the Day of the 2024 Total Eclipse by participating in the Total Eclipse Run presented by Revive Vienna. SAG Station (Drinks and Snacks) and SAG Driver will be available during the run times.

Solar Eclipse Wine Glass Painting at StarView Vineyards (Cobden), April 7, 2024

Event date(s): April 7, 2024, 1-3 pm Location: Cobden, Illinois

Get ready to unleash your creativity while enjoying a glass of wine, great food and friends. StarView Vineyards are are hosting a Solar Eclipse Wine Glass Painting event where you can personalize your very own wine glasses or beer mugs. Choose between a solar eclipse-themed design or make your own unique design! By the end of the event, you'll have two glasses to sip out of while you watch the once in a lifetime total Solar Eclipse the next day!

Solar Eclipse at Blue Sky Vineyards (Makanda), April 8, 2024

Event date(s): April 8, 2024, 11:00 am - 6:30 pm Location: Makanda, Illinois

Blue Sky Vineyard is perfectly positioned along the path of the 2024 eclipse with scenic views of the vineyard, open skies above and surrounded by rolling hills of the Shawnee National Forest.

Join us at the Eclipse Crossroads for the second total solar eclipse at Blue Sky Vineyard. Did you know that Blue Sky Vineyard was NASA’s Point of Longest Duration for the 2017 eclipse? We thoroughly enjoyed celebrating the 2017 event with so many wonderful guests and are now planning our 2024 experience.

Total Solar Eclipse Olney Illinois 2024 (Olney), April 8, 2024

Event date(s): April 8, 2024, 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Location: Olney, IL

Marshall Illinois Eclipse (Marshall), April 8, 2024

Event date(s): April 8, 2024, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Location: Marshall, IL

Come join us for the Marshall Illinois Eclipse event!

Southern Illinois Eclipse (Carbondale), April 8, 2024

Event date(s): April 8, 2024, 1:59 pm Location: Southern Illinois

Twice in a Lifetime Solar Eclipse (Chester), April 8, 2024

Event date(s): April 8, 2024 Location: Chester, IL

View the NEXT Total Solar Eclipse On The Mighty Mississippi! Come join us for the Twice in a Lifetime Solar Eclipse event. Totality... totally worth it!

Discover Totality, Discover Carmi (Carmi), April 8, 2024

Event date(s): April 8, 2024, 12:45 PM Totality Begins: 2:01 p.m. CDT Location: Carmi, IL

Carmi is on the centerline of the path of totality and will see 4 minutes and 1 seconds of totality for the April 8, 2024 eclipse. This is double what was seen during the 2017 solar eclipse.

Eclipse on the Bricks (Albion), April 6-7, 2024

Event date(s): April 6-7, 2024 Location: Albion, IL

Come celebrate the historic Total Solar Eclipse with the Eclipse on the Bricks festival !

Bald Knob Cross of Peace Eclipse (Alto Pass), April 8, 2024

Event date(s): April 8, 2024, 12:00 PM Location: Alto Pass, IL

Get your tickets early! There has been a great amount of interest shown in their “spot on” location for the best viewing of this rare eclipse. They're working with the Solar Eclipse Committee and other area businesses on planning this incredible event, but suffice it to say that Bald Knob Cross will be a very popular spot for viewing this phenomenon. Gates will open at 10 AM. Please plan on arriving by 12 Noon to experience the Partial Eclipse beginning around 12:40 PM CDT, and the Maximum Eclipse around 2:00 PM CDT.

2024 Solar Eclipse (Newtown), April 8, 2024

Event date(s): April 8, 2024, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM Location: Newton, IL

Southern Illinois Crossroads Eclipse Festival (Carbondale), April 8, 2024

Event date(s): April 8, 2024, 1:59 pm Location: Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois

On August 21, 2017, a total solar eclipse path stretched across the entire United States, reaching its point of greatest duration (GD) a few miles south of Carbondale. This region in Southern Illinois is not only in the path of the 2017 eclipse, but also the 2024 eclipse, making it a unique location for being able to perform observations of both eclipses from the same location. Carbondale is on the center-line of the path of totality and will see 4 minutes and 9 seconds of totality for eclipse 2024, nearly double what was seen in 2017. The two eclipse paths form an intersection just south of the SIU campus around Cedar Lake.

Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center (Makanda), April 6-9, 2024

Event date(s): April 6-9, 2024, 1:59 pm Location: Makanda, Illinois

Located in the path of totality for the 2024 Solar Eclipse, Touch of Nature is the perfect location to turn the eclipse into a fun filled experience. The second of two once in a lifetime eclipses will be taking place in Southern Illinois and Touch of Nature is in one of the most ideal spaces for the viewing of this event. For nearly 4 minutes and 9 seconds, the sun will be completely blacked out in the middle of the day!

Eclipse Events: Market, Music, Trivia, Viewings & More (Greenville & Centralia), April 6-8, 2024

Event date(s): April 6-8, 2024 Location: Greenville, Centralia & Salem, Illinois

Head to Greenville and Centralia to celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime event, and support some great public libraries at the same time. There's a variety of events during the weekend before and day of the eclipse including music, trivia, murder mystery nights, markets and eclipse viewings and parties.

VISIT THESE ILLINOISAN ARTISANS

Illinois Makers in the Area

Show more in category of Bars & Taverns

17th Street BBQ

Show more in category of Farms & Orchards

Rolling Oak Alpaca Ranch

Show more in category of Specialty Stores

C's Bees

Alto vineyards winery & tasting room.

Show more in category of Wineries & Vineyards

Pomona Winery

Show more in category of Bakeries

Bryn’s Cookie Bin

Show more in category of Breweries

Scratch Brewing Company

St. nicholas brewing.

Show more in category of Coffee Shops

Crown Brew Coffee Co.

Starview vineyards, shawnee hills lavender.

Show more in category of Galleries

Alto Clay Works

Rendleman orchards farm market.

What to Bring with You

As you travel down to Southern Illinois, you might be wondering what essentials you'll need to bring with you to have a great solar eclipse road trip. We got you.

Sun Protection (Of Course!)

This should be an obvious one! Make sure you’re prepared to be outside in the sun for a while. Bring sunscreen, a hat, sun umbrellas, and anything else that'll help make your viewing experience relaxing (and burn-free).

Solar Eclipse Glasses

The actual full eclipse lasts a couple of minutes, but before it happens, the Sun, even a sliver of it, is still way too bright to look at with your own eyes. These glasses allow you to look right at it and see the outline of the moon move over.

Check the Weather!

Bad weather can impact your solar eclipse experience. Make sure you check the weather forecast. If it's looking a little cloudy, dress appropriately and cross your fingers—but it's a rare occurrence so don't let a little cloud put you off.

A Good Quality Camera

Don’t rely on your phone camera to get a good picture. If you're experienced and come prepared, you might just get that magic shot. You may need to use a “solar filter” to prevent harming your camera’s imaging sensor.

Bug Spray/Repellent

If you choose a remote outdoor spot to enjoy the eclipse, make sure you stay one step ahead of pesky critters and bring some bug spray to keep them away (especially if you've followed our advice and packed a tasty lunch).

Plenty of Food and Water

Depending on how early you get to your spot, the experience can last a while—and you might as well make a day of it! So bring plenty of food and water to keep you fed and hydrated—you don’t want to miss it trying to find lunch!

Make a Pinhole Projector

In a pinch, a pinhole camera/projector can help you watch the eclipse unfold in a safe way. All you need is white card stock, aluminum foil, tape, scissors, and a pin or paper clip. It's also a great project to help pass the time.

Save for later

Share this story

Share your Moments

#enjoyillinois, subscribe to our newsletter.

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.