EVENTS

Eclipse 2024: Where's the best place to watch in Jacksonville?

Tom Szaroleta
Jacksonville Florida Times-Union

In case you haven't heard, there's a total solar eclipse coming on April 8. People in Florida won't be able to see the whole thing since the state isn't in the "path of totality," but in Jacksonville we'll still be able to see nearly two-thirds of the sun obscured by the moon.

Here are some of the best places for viewing the eclipse.

What is the best time to view the eclipse in Jacksonville?

The eclipse will be visible in the Jacksonville area from 1:47 p.m. to 4:19 p.m., peaking at 3:04 p.m. At the peak of the eclipse, 62.7 percent of the sun will be obscured by the moon as seen from Jacksonville. 

Are there any eclipse-watching parties in Jacksonville?

The University of North Florida Department of Physics and Astronomy Club is throwing a free watch party from 2-4 p.m. April 8 at the J.B. Coxwell Amphitheater on campus. Parking on campus is $2. Free viewing glasses will be handed out. Bring your own blankets and chairs. 

Are there other opportunities to learn about the eclipse in Jacksonville?

Jacksonville’s Museum of Science & History is holding a pair of eclipse education events in its Bryan-Gooding Planetarium. Planetarium Night Live: The Big Cover Up will look at the upcoming eclipse and the impact other eclipses had on American history. The sessions are scheduled for 7 p.m. April 5 and 6. $10-$12. Info: themosh.org 

The Clay County Public Library System is holding a series of Exploration Lab sessions for schoolchildren to learn about the eclipse. Sessions are scheduled for 4 p.m. April 1 at the Keystone Heights branch, 4 p.m. April 2 at the Middleburg/Clay Hill branch, 4 p.m. April 3 at the Green Cove Springs branch and 4 p.m. April 4 at the Fleming Island library. A "hangout" event for homeschooled students is scheduled for 1 p.m. April 8.

What are the best places in Jacksonville to view the eclipse?

As long as it isn't cloudy, any place with a clear view of the sky is as good as any other. Plan a trip to the beach or one of Jacksonville's public parks, step out to the Northbank or Southbank Riverwalks if you're in the downtown area or simply head for your backyard; the view will be the same everywhere in the Jacksonville area.

Where is the best place in Florida to view the eclipse?

Pensacola will be treated to a spectacular partial eclipse of just over 80% coverage at the midpoint, according to eclipse2024.com, but if you want to see the most eclipse possible within state lines you'll need to head to Pineville (82.4%), Bratt (82.3%), or Walnut Hill (82.2%).

The farther south or southeast you go, the less of an eclipse you'll see. Tallahassee will get 75.4% coverage, Jacksonville about 70%. Central Florida across the state will be in the mid-60% range. Southwestern Florida will see about 60% of the sun blocked, Palm Beach 58%, Miami 55.7%, and down in the Keys it'll be 55.1%.

Is the Kennedy Space Center planning any special events for the eclipse?

The Space Center on Merritt Island is holding a Partial Solar Eclipse and Earth Day Party from 2-5 p.m. April 8. It's included with admission to the Space Center Visitor Complex.

Are there any other eclipse-viewing events in Florida?

Samantha Neely of USA TODAY Network contributed to this report.