We’re officially one week away from one of the coolest events of the year – a total solar eclipse! This happens when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun, leaving small paths of shortened darkness in the “path of totality” along the way. It’s set to happen on Monday, April 8 with totality happening between 2:27 pm to 3:35 pm Eastern time. And while the line of complete totality doesn’t pass through NYC, you’ll still be able to see it partially.
Here in NYC, there will still be plenty of watch parties, including parks, observation decks, and more! Here’s where to look up at the sky on the 8th:
1. Solar Eclipse at Top of the Rock
The Top of the Rock Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center is set to host a solar eclipse viewing party on Wednesday, April 8 from 12:00 pm – 4 pm! This once-in-a-decade opportunity to safely watch the solar eclipse will include admission, complimentary ISO-certified solar eclipse glasses from Warby Parker, and an eclipse themed black and white cookie from The Weather Room. Tickets start at $55 and you can learn more here.
2. Solar Eclipse cruise with Classic Harbor Line
Cruise along NYC waters and take in the eclipse float, thanks to journeys available via Classic Harbor Line. They are offering a 2.5-hour Solar Eclipse Viewing Cruise on April 8 which includes a ride and a complimentary beverage! It’s the perfect way to get picturesque skyline views and see the solar eclipse all in one.
Don’t forget to try out their Eclipse Cocktail ($16) as well while you’re on board. Tickets start at $86 and you can learn more here.
3. Solar Eclipse package at One World Observatory
One World Observatory is launching a special solar eclipse package on April 8 which includes general admission, a pair of solar eclipse viewing glasses, a complimentary beverage, a commemorative One World Observatory pint glass, a commemorative souvenir photo, and 10% off at the retail shop! Book your spot to see it here!
4. Free solar eclipse glasses handout
From now until Monday, you still have time to pick up a free pair of eclipse glasses so you can watch the event from wherever you are in NYC. Courtesy of I Love NY, free glasses are being handed out everyday at the MTA Long Island Rail Road Ticket Windows in Moynihan Train Hall daily from 6:30am – 9:30pm while supplies last! Learn more about the initiative and find more places with free glasses here.
5. Sky-High Eclipse at EDGE
Take in the total solar eclipse from the highest sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, EDGE! You can ascend 1,131 feet in the air to watch the astronomical event, and they’ll even be giving out giving out solar eclipse glasses to all guests, as well as serving special eclipse cocktails at the bar. Learn more about EDGE’s solar eclipse event here!
6. NYSCI Eclipse Watch Party
If you’re looking for somewhere to watch the total solar eclipse in Queens, head to the New York Hall of Science, where they’ll be hosting an afternoon full of activities! From 1 pm – 5 pm on April 8, you can receive a pair of eclipse glasses and participate in tons of eclipse inspired crafts and activities. Plus, DJ Annie Red will be spinning tunes and there will be Queens Night Market vendors on site selling food and drinks. Learn more about the event here.
7. Solar Eclipse Community Event at Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Stop by the Brooklyn Botanical Garden for a free viewing party on April 8 from 1 pm – 5 pm! You can grab a seat on their lawn and watch the eclipse happen, with its peak time happening around 3:25 pm. Free glasses will be handed out in collaboration with Warby Parker as well until supply lasts! Learn more here.
8. Solar Eclipse Day at AMNH
The American Museum of Natural History will be having family-friendly educational activities and free eclipse glasses on April 8 from 10 am – 3 pm! It’ll take place on the Arthur Ross Terrace at the Cullman Hall of the Universe. Learn more about the event here.
9. Solar Eclipse at Green-Wood Cemetery
Green-Wood Cemetery, one of the most beautiful cemeteries in NYC, is opening up their green area for a one of a kind solar eclipse event. The experience will include special-edition glasses, special telescopes you can look through, amateur astronomers on site, and more!
Plus, there will be many activities like self-guided explorations and artist-led activations, an intimate soil soundscape installation, a community mural with the Red Hook Art Project, a listening session pop-up with Sacred Bones Records, and a gong sound bath by Samer Ghadry alongside NASA’s livestream of the eclipse from the path of totality.
Learn more about the event here!
10. Solar Eclipse at the Empire State Building
Stop by the Empire State Building’s 86th and 102nd floor observation decks to catch the astronomical phenomenon! Learn more here.
11. 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
If you’re in Brooklyn, stop by Harriet’s Rooftop at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, where they’ll be opening early for an exclusive solar eclipse viewing event. Starting at 11 am, guests are welcome to enjoy cocktails and lite bites at the rooftop bar as they await the big moment! Eclipse viewing glasses will be offered complimentary with any food or drink purchase.
12. Tavern on the Green
Beloved Central Park restaurant Tavern on the Green is hosting a Solar Eclipse Viewing Party, featuring an educational presentation from a Columbia University astronomer, themed cocktails and themed black and white cookies, plus timeless American fare. It’s happening on April 8 from 2 pm – 5 pm, with maximum totality occurring around 3:25 pm!
13. Locations around New York State
For a better overall viewing experience of the solar eclipse, you’ll have to head out of NYC to get the best views. Luckily, tons of places around New York are hosting special events and experiences to experience the once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon! We’re talking everything from special train rides, skydiving adventures, and a whole lot more. You can see the whole list of fun events here!