Road tripping to Indy for the eclipse? Here are spots to take in the spectacle

The 2024 solar eclipse is creeping up, and unfortunately for Kentuckians, most of the state falls outside the path of totality. Luckily, it’s not a far drive to get some of the best views in the country, with Indiana cities directly in the totality path.

Some Indiana locations will even experience over four minutes of total darkness, leaving viewers in a state of awe, with few words to describe the rare phenomenon. Just a skip and a hop away, Kentuckians can reach these viewing locations in about a two-hour drive, or around 120 miles.

Here’s a list of Indianapolis viewing spots for the solar eclipse, perfect for a road trip:

What Indianapolis events are happening for the 2024 total solar eclipse?

According to Visit Indy, multiple spots across the city are hosting viewing opportunities for the April 8 solar eclipse.

White River State Park

White River State Park is a prime location for the 2024 solar eclipse with multiple viewing areas and activities to take in. Free solar eclipse glasses will be available at the park’s Visitor Center on a first-come, first-serve basis, as well as 20+ food trucks and a food competition.

Yoga and Tabata classes, led by the National Institute for Fitness and Sports, NIFS, are available at noon and 12:30 p.m. at the Celebration Plaza Amphitheater and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra will perform at 2:30 p.m.

Canoe and kayak rentals are also available for purchase at Frank’s Paddlesport Livery.

“The perfect spot for viewing the eclipse, the greenspaces at White River State Park will have a weekend full of activities. And with food trucks lining the Old Washington Street Bridge, you’ll have ample opportunities to fuel up and get ready for the main event,” according to Visit Indy.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is getting ready to rev its engine for the 2024 total solar eclipse. According to Visit Indy, a total solar eclipse was last visible in Indianapolis 819 years ago, with the next one visible in 2153.

Partnering with NASA, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway was one of a few broadcast locations selected for the event. “NASA experts will be on hand to answer questions about the scientific phenomenon of a total solar eclipse. Educational STEM opportunities, exclusive merchandise and programming centered around racing and space discovery will be available throughout the day,” according to Visit Indy.

General admission tickets are $20 and include gate admission, infield parking and solar eclipse glasses. Those 18 and under get free admission with a paying adult, as well as solar eclipse glasses.

Three-day camping packages are also available in Lot 2 from April 6-9 starting at $125.

Indiana State Museum

At the Indiana State Museum, attendees can learn all about the total solar eclipse through demonstrations and hands-on activities.

A limited amount of solar eclipse glasses will be available for visitors, with extra available for purchase in the Indiana store. The event, “including access to the balcony with a direct line of sight to the total solar eclipse, a bar with specialty drinks and cocktails, and eclipse-themed hors d’oeuvres,” is one you won’t want to miss.

Indiana State Fairgrounds

Reserve a campsite at the Indiana State Fairgrounds for a unique view of the total eclipse or drive on down for a general admission cost of $25 for one vehicle of five people. Gates open at 9 a.m. with the partial eclipse taking place from 1:40 p.m. to 4:23 p.m. The maximum eclipse will be visible at 3:07 p.m.

The fairgrounds will have a stage with live music, a bar for drinks and multiple local food trucks.

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Here's where, when, and for how long you can see the total solar eclipse in Kentucky

For additional viewing spots in Indianapolis, click the link here.