Here’s How To See The Solar Eclipse In 5 Major Cities

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In case you haven’t heard, the “Great American Eclipse” is happening on August 21. As the first total solar eclipse in the lower 48 states in almost 40 years, it’s kind of a big deal.

For a couple eery minutes, the moon will pass in front of the sun and cast a shadow on the entire country. The eclipse is visible in most of the U.S., so you probably have a decent view right at home.

Many people are flocking to the countryside to get a glimpse of the rare event. But if you want to skip a cross-country traffic jam, you can still enjoy the experience in the city, weather cooperating, of course. So if you didn’t make plans for the solar eclipse, here’s what you’ll be able to see in five cities around the country. Don’t forget your eclipse glasses!

Nashville

Lucky ducks in Nashville are in the direct path of the eclipse, meaning they’ll see the sun darken completely for two minutes. While you’ll have to cross your fingers for the waitlist to magically clear for rooftop parties at Acme Feed & Seed (with a D.J. and buffet!) or City Winery Nashville (with complimentary champagne!), there are also free events.

The Hermitage historical site is hosting a free tailgate for eclipse-viewing with food trucks, but also the option to bring your own libations. Or you can opt to go to the Inn at Fontanel’s Back Porch Grove. The spot plans to blast the entire Pink Floyd “The Dark Side of the Moon” album during the eclipse.

Los Angeles

You’ll also get a 70 percent view of the eclipse on the southern West Coast. In LA, it’ll begin at around 9am local time. We suggest sipping a latte over a long breakfast and watching the skies on a patio, such as The Alcove in Los Feliz.

P.S.A. Don’t drive to Griffith Observatory. Everyone else wants to be there too; parking will not end well. Take an Uber and then walk to avoid the traffic.

Portland

Portland is just outside the full path, so residents will be able to enjoy 99 percent of the eclipse. You could drive out to see the total eclipse, but unless you leave days ahead of time, there’s no guarantee you’ll get viewing space.

Instead, stay in town and hit up one of Portland’s best patios. Watching the sky go black is better with a drink in hand. To be totally on theme, head to Ecliptic Brewing for “beer, brunch and bloodys”, starting at 9 a.m.

New York

New Yorkers will only get to see about 70 percent of the celestial event, which will be at its peak at 2:44 p.m. We know that most of you will be locked in your offices, but if you can take an early happy hour, hit up the rooftop at The Metropolitan Museum of Art or Refinery Rooftop in Midtown.

You could also join the crowds in Central Park, but Sheep’s Meadow is crowded on the best days. Instead, take the A train all the way uptown to Inwood Hill Park for a more peaceful view far away from the city lights.

Chicago

The Windy City will be treated to a partial eclipse, but that doesn’t mean Chi-Town is partying any less than cities in the eclipse’s direct path.

With the eclipse starting before noon on Monday, hotel rooftops seem to be the place to be. Cindy’s at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel has a lobster roll with eclipse-gawkers’ names on it and at the Godfrey Hotel Chicago, chefs concocted ‘The Eclipse,” a special cocktail that changes color from light to dark—just like the sun!